Learn How the Premium BMW X7 Compares to the Competition in Jacksonville

When you're looking for an SUV that attracts attention on both local roads and I-95, chances are that your interest is geared toward a luxury SUV. These vehicles boast the elegant design, upscale appointments, advanced technologies, and hearty performance that today's discerning drivers want. We thought it a good idea to compare two of the class leaders when it comes to large premium SUVs, our BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Read on to see how things turned out.

Design

The BMW X7 delivers standout exterior style, thanks to its iconic kidney grilles and squared-off rear. While the Mercedes-Benz GLS is no slouch in the looks department, it does suffer from a sense of déjà vu, as its design is remarkably similar to other SUVs in the class.

The X7 is the largest BMW offered, with that size providing ample passenger space for day trips to historic St. Augustine. One feature we love about the BMW X7 is the sliding second-row seats, which provide easy access to and exit from the third-row seats. The GLS also offers plenty of interior passenger space, though it doesn't quite measure up when it comes to front-row head- and shoulder room, while rear seat passengers enjoy significantly more legroom in the X7.

Performance

Both SUVs come with standard V6 engines that deliver the power you need when passing slower vehicles on the way to and from Gainesville, with performance metrics that are quite similar -- though the GLS does make slightly more horsepower and torque. There are also available twin-turbocharged V8 engines for each SUV, with each delivering the strong performance you want for your daily commute.

When it comes to towing, though, the BMW X7 is the better choice. The X7 is rated to tow up to 7,500 pounds, while the GLS tops out at 7,200. That extra capability goes a long way when you're towing your boat to Fernandina Beach for a day on the water.

Both the X7 and the GLS come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, allowing you to take on a variety of terrains and road conditions while remaining in complete command of your SUV. The general consensus is that the BMW X7 provides better, smoother handling than the GLS, though, thanks to a longer wheelbase and slightly lower profile.

Features

Given that these two SUVs are among the elite, it should come as no surprise that they're both well-equipped with the standard features that make driving that much more of a joy. However, the BMW X7 includes more upscale amenities in its introductory model than does the GLS, which makes the X7 the better value in our opinion. These include such niceties as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation, heated rear seats, and an iDrive controller knob that commands the infotainment system.

Explore the BMW X7 at Tom Bush BMW Jacksonville

Now that you've seen the differences between these two worthy foes, don't you think you deserve to make the quick trip from Jacksonville Beach to our showroom and take the BMW X7 out for an exploratory test drive? Our team is ready to help in any way possible, from answering questions to helping you find the loan or BMW lease terms you want.