When BMW first debuted the X7, enthusiasts of the brand were a bit shocked. Seeing a Roundel, an emblem typically associated with small sports cars, on the hood of an SUV the size of a house was a bit odd. However, once enthusiasts started driving the BMW X7, they were quickly surprised with how good it actually is. Myself included. The X7 is a superb luxury SUV and an incredible first attempt by BMW. However, its main competitor is all new and it’s from a brand that’s been doing it for longer — the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.
In this new video from Doug DeMuro, we take a look at the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class to see if it can take down the impressive new BMW X7, a car DeMuro has also reviewed and liked a lot.
There’s no doubt, the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is a great car. It looks good, has a lovely interior and some really nice technology. Having said that, DeMuro actually thinks the BMW X7 is the cooler, more interesting car of the two. While the GLS is nice, the X7 and even the Lincoln Navigator, are said to have more of a wow-factor than the big Benz.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some really cool parts of the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. For instance, its magic-like height-adjustable suspension and its really slick augmented reality navigation screen. But in terms of overall interior luxury, driving engagement and ride quality, the GLS seems to fall a bit short of the X7.
That’s a massive achievement for BMW. Even if a lot of customers prefer the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the fact that BMW’s first attempt at a massive luxury SUV can compete with an already well-established competitor in the segment is something for the Bavarians to be proud of. After having driven the BMW X7, I was very impressed myself. I haven’t driven the GLS but I’d love to give it a go and compare the two. For now, though, we’ll just have to take DeMuro’s word for it.
