2025
See BMW X7 for saleBMW X7
From BHD 49,600
BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?
A complete comparison of the BMW X7 VS Mercedes-Benz GLS — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.
2025
See Mercedes-Benz GLS for saleMercedes-Benz GLS
From BHD 41,050
BMW X7 VS Mercedes-Benz GLS: the verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GLS edges out the BMW X7 as the overall winner, offering superior versatility with its broader price range, significantly larger cargo capacity, and higher-performance top trims. However, the BMW X7 remains a formidable choice for buyers prioritizing a more agile driving experience and a slightly quicker base acceleration, delivering consistent luxury throughout its lineup.
| #1 BMW X7#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz GLS#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 49,600 – 61,000 BHD | 41,050 – 86,100 BHD |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 3,000 – 4,396 cc · 6 – 8 cyl | 2,999 – 3,982 cc · 6 – 8 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 340 – 530 hp | 367 – 612 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 450 – 750 Nm | 500 – 850 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 4.7 – 6.1 s | 4.9 – 6.2 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 245 – 250 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 9 – 11.4 L/100km | 9 – 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 90 L |
| Gears | 8 | 9 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 5.2 m × 2 m × 1.8 m | 5.2 / 5.2 m × 2.0 / 2.0 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 3.1 m | 3.1 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 2,320 kg | 2,385 – 2,555 kg |
| Trunk Capacity (liters) | 326 L | 355 – 520 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | SUV Crossover | SUV Crossover |
| Seating Capacity | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 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 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 BoltsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (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 Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap 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 OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MassageSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSide Impact BarSilver TrimSkid PlatesSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSport PedalsSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim |
Which one should you buy?
1
Best for Value & Trim Options
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a wider price spectrum, starting at a more accessible 41,050 BHD, providing more choices for various budgets and luxury levels.
2
Best for Cargo Capacity
For families or those needing ample storage, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is the clear winner with a maximum trunk capacity of 520 liters, significantly more than the X7's 326 liters.
3
Best for Top-Tier Performance
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers higher maximum power, reaching up to 612 hp and 850 Nm of torque in its top configurations, appealing to performance enthusiasts.
4
Best for Agile Driving Feel
The BMW X7, with its lighter kerb weight of 2,320 kg and quicker base acceleration of 4.7 seconds, provides a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Pros & cons
BMW X7
Pros
- Faster base acceleration (4.7 seconds)
- Lighter kerb weight (2,320 kg)
- Consistent luxury experience across trims
Cons
- Smaller trunk capacity (326 L)
- Higher starting price (49,600 BHD)
- Lower maximum power output (530 hp)
Mercedes-Benz GLS
Pros
- Wider price range with lower entry point (41,050 BHD)
- Significantly larger maximum trunk capacity (520 L)
- Higher maximum horsepower (612 hp)
- Nine-speed transmission for smoother shifts
- Larger fuel tank capacity (90 L)
Cons
- Higher top-end price (86,100 BHD)
- Heavier kerb weight (up to 2,555 kg)
- Slightly slower base acceleration (4.9 seconds)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is more affordable at its entry level, with prices starting from 41,050 BHD, compared to the BMW X7's starting price of 49,600 BHD. However, the GLS also offers much higher-priced top trims, so it depends on the specific variant chosen. If budget is a primary concern, the base GLS offers a more accessible luxury SUV option.
Which SUV offers more cargo space, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS clearly offers more cargo space, with a trunk capacity ranging from 355 to 520 liters. In contrast, the BMW X7 provides 326 liters. For those needing maximum utility for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, the GLS is the superior choice.
Is the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS faster?
While both offer impressive performance, the BMW X7 has a quicker base acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, compared to the GLS's 4.9 seconds (base model). However, the top-tier Mercedes-Benz GLS can achieve a higher maximum horsepower of 612 hp. For overall straight-line speed, the X7's base model is quicker, but GLS offers more power at its peak.
Which is better for long journeys, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS are excellent choices for long journeys, offering 7-seat comfort and luxurious interiors. However, the GLS might have a slight edge due to its larger fuel tank capacity of 90 liters (vs. 83 L for X7) and a 9-speed transmission which can contribute to smoother highway cruising. The larger trunk space in the GLS also makes it more practical for extended trips with luggage.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Both models offer comparable fuel economy figures. The BMW X7 ranges from 9 to 11.4 L/100km, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS ranges from 9 to 11.7 L/100km. The difference is minimal and largely depends on the specific engine variant and driving conditions. Neither car stands out significantly over the other in terms of fuel efficiency.
