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.

⁦BMW X7⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLS⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLS narrowly takes the lead for luxury SUV buyers prioritizing ultimate practicality and robust power. Its superior cargo capacity and higher maximum horsepower make it ideal for larger families and those needing extra hauling capability. However, the BMW X7 offers a slightly quicker acceleration in its top trim and a marginally lighter kerb weight, appealing to drivers who prefer a more agile feel.
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Price Comparison
Starting at0 BHD41,050 – 86,100 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine3,000 – 4,396 cc · 6 – 8 cyl2,999 – 3,982 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 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.2 m × 2 m × 1.8 m5.2 / 5.2 m × 2.0 / 2.0 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.1 m3.1 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,320 kg2,385 – 2,555 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)326 L355 – 520 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats7 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 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 Family Adventures

With a significantly larger trunk capacity of up to 520 L, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is better equipped to handle luggage and gear for family trips compared to the BMW X7's 326 L.

2

Best for Long Journeys

The Mercedes-Benz GLS's larger 90 L fuel tank provides a greater range between fill-ups, making it more convenient for extended travels than the BMW X7's 83 L tank.

3

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

While the BMW X7 boasts quick acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a higher maximum power output of 612 hp and 850 Nm of torque, delivering more raw power for demanding drivers.

4

Best for Everyday Agility

The BMW X7's lighter kerb weight of 2,320 kg compared to the GLS's 2,385 kg contributes to a more nimble driving experience, especially in urban environments.

Pros & cons

BMW X7

Pros

  • Lighter kerb weight for agile handling (2,320 kg)
  • Slightly quicker top-end acceleration (4.7 s)
  • Potentially better max fuel economy (9 L/100km)
  • 8-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (326 L)
  • Lower maximum power output (530 hp)
  • Smaller fuel tank (83 L)
  • Fewer gears (8-speed)

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Pros

  • Superior maximum power (612 hp)
  • Higher maximum torque (850 Nm)
  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (up to 520 L)
  • Larger fuel tank for extended range (90 L)
  • 9-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Heavier kerb weight (up to 2,555 kg)
  • Slightly slower top-end acceleration (4.9 s)
  • Marginally less fuel efficient in some trims (up to 11.7 L/100km)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is generally better for families due to its significantly larger trunk capacity, offering up to 520 L compared to the BMW X7's 326 L. This extra space makes the GLS more practical for strollers, luggage, or groceries. Both models offer 7-seat capacity, but the GLS's cargo advantage makes it more family-friendly.

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

For outright power, the Mercedes-Benz GLS takes the lead, boasting up to 612 hp and 850 Nm of torque, which surpasses the BMW X7's maximum of 530 hp and 750 Nm. However, the X7 can achieve a slightly quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration of 4.7 seconds in its top trim. If pure horsepower and torque are your priority, the GLS is the stronger choice.

Does the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS have better fuel economy?

The BMW X7 generally offers marginally better fuel economy, with its best efficiency rated at 9 L/100km, which is comparable to the GLS's best. However, the X7's maximum consumption is slightly lower at 11.4 L/100km compared to the GLS's 11.7 L/100km. For drivers prioritizing every drop of fuel, the X7 might offer a slight edge.

Which has more cargo space, the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers substantially more cargo space than the BMW X7. The GLS provides a trunk capacity ranging from 355 to 520 L, while the X7 offers 326 L. For those who frequently need to carry a lot of luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, the GLS is the clear winner.

What are the key differences between the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS transmissions?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS features a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing an extra gear compared to the BMW X7's 8-speed automatic. More gears can contribute to smoother power delivery, potentially better fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience across various speeds.