BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW X7⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLS⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW X7⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLS⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLS edges out the BMW X7 as the overall winner for luxury SUV buyers in the UAE, particularly those prioritizing ultimate power, versatility, and maximum passenger/cargo space. While the X7 offers a slightly more agile driving experience and a more focused luxury package, the GLS's broader range of trims, superior top-end performance, and adaptable interior make it a more compelling choice for a wider audience.
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Price Comparison
Starting at520,000 – 610,000 AED470,300 – 1,105,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine3,000 – 4,396 cc · 6 – 8 cyl2,999 – 4,600 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 530 hp367 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 750 Nm500 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.7 – 6.1 s4.9 – 6.2 s
Top Speed (Km/h)245 – 250 km/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)9 – 11.4 L/100km9 – 11.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L90 – 100 L
Gears87 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.2 m × 2 m × 1.8 m5.1 / 5.2 / 5.2 m × 2.0 / 2.0 / 2.1 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.9 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.1 m3.1 / 3.1 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,320 kg2,385 – 2,740 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)326 L355 – 680 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats4 / 7 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAlloy PedalsAnti theft alarmAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothCD PlayerChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionDisc BrakesEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Fire ExtinguisherFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFront BrakesGas Shock AbsorberHDMIImmobilizerLeather SeatsLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsMP3Multi-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearRadioRear CameraRear WiperRemote StartSeatbeltsSpoilerTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Wheels - AlloyWinchWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAshtrayAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)Bi-Xenon HeadlampsBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored GrilleBody Colored MirrorsBonnet LightBrake CalipersBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCornering LightsCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated Door HandlesImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLumbar SupportMagnesium Paddle ShiftersMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersParallel Parking AssistParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MassageSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSide Impact BarSilver TrimSkid PlatesSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Overall Luxury & Versatility

The Mercedes-Benz GLS takes the lead with its wider range of configurations, offering a more luxurious and adaptable experience from its lower entry price point up to its most powerful trims.

2

Best for Dynamic Driving

For drivers who appreciate a more engaging and responsive ride, the BMW X7 is the better choice, boasting quicker acceleration and a lighter kerb weight for a sportier feel.

3

Best for Cargo & Long Journeys

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is superior for those needing ample storage, offering a significantly larger maximum trunk capacity and a bigger fuel tank for extended trips.

4

Best for Value-Conscious Luxury

With a starting price of 470,300 AED, the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a more accessible entry point into the ultra-luxury SUV segment compared to the BMW X7.

Pros & cons

BMW X7

Pros

  • Quicker top-end acceleration (4.7 seconds)
  • Lighter kerb weight (2,320 kg)
  • More consistent pricing structure
  • Slightly better maximum fuel efficiency (11.4 L/100km)

Cons

  • Lower maximum power and torque
  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity
  • Higher entry-level price
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (612 hp)
  • Greater maximum torque (850 Nm)
  • Significantly larger maximum trunk capacity (680 L)
  • Lower starting price (470,300 AED)
  • Available 4-seat ultra-luxury configuration

Cons

  • Heavier kerb weight (up to 2,740 kg)
  • Slightly slower top-end acceleration (4.9 seconds)
  • Can be significantly more expensive at higher trims
  • Slightly worse maximum fuel efficiency (11.7 L/100km)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS better for luxury families in the UAE?

For luxury families in the UAE, the Mercedes-Benz GLS often proves to be the better choice due to its superior maximum trunk capacity of up to 680 L, offering more space for luggage and family gear. While both offer 7-seat configurations, the GLS's overall versatility and larger fuel tank also make it more practical for family road trips. Consider the GLS for its enhanced practicality and space.

Which SUV offers more performance, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS ultimately offers more outright performance, with a higher maximum power output of 612 hp and 850 Nm of torque compared to the BMW X7's 530 hp and 750 Nm. While the X7 boasts quicker top-end acceleration, the GLS's top-tier variants deliver a more commanding power experience, making it the choice for ultimate performance.

Which is more spacious, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers superior spaciousness, particularly in terms of cargo volume, with a maximum trunk capacity of 680 L compared to the BMW X7's 326 L. Both models comfortably seat seven passengers, but the GLS provides more flexibility for luggage and can even be configured with a luxurious 4-seat option. For maximum space, the GLS is the clear winner.

What is the price difference between the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS in the UAE?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a wider price range in the UAE, starting from 470,300 AED and going up to 1,105,900 AED for its high-performance variants. The BMW X7, on the other hand, ranges from 520,000 AED to 610,000 AED. This means the GLS offers a more affordable entry point, but its top trims can be significantly more expensive than any X7 model.

Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS start with similar fuel economy figures at 9 L/100km. However, the BMW X7's least efficient trim consumes 11.4 L/100km, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS can go up to 11.7 L/100km. This makes the X7 marginally more fuel-efficient at its higher consumption end, but both are comparable in their base efficiency.