Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs BMW X7
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class starts from $199,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW X7 opens at $174,900. That makes the BMW X7 the more affordable entry point by $25,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $219,890 and $192,390 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and BMW X7 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 7 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 9 in the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and 7 in the BMW X7.
Feature Showdown
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the BMW X7 gets a 14.9-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Burmester audio that you will not find on the BMW X7. The BMW X7 counters with Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, ventilated seats and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class uses a Petrol producing 270kW and 500Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds.
The BMW X7 responds with a Diesel making 259kW and 720Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has the clear power advantage at 270kW vs 259kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X7 is 0.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class measures 5,207mm long on a 3,135mm wheelbase, 26mm longer than the BMW X7 at 5,181mm (3,105mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 680L in the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and 750L in the BMW X7, giving the BMW X7 a 70L advantage.
For towing, the BMW X7 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.8m to 13.1m
Based on 12.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,993/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and $2,822/year for the BMW X7. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the BMW X7.
Estimated annual total: $2,993 (Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class) vs $2,822 (BMW X7). The BMW X7 saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X7). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X7 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW X7 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X7 will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X7 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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