Mercedes GL-Class 2016 vs BMW X7: Ultimate Comparison

For those weighing the luxury SUV options of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class against a BMW X7, understanding key differences in performance, interior, and technology is crucial. While the GL-Class (now known as the GLS) paved the way for large Mercedes SUVs, the X7 represents BMW’s direct answer in the ultra-luxury segment, offering distinct advantages for different drivers.

Choosing the right luxury SUV can feel overwhelming, especially when two titans like the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class and the BMW X7 enter the ring. You’re looking for space, comfort, cutting-edge technology, and that unmistakable premium feel. Perhaps you’re already a Mercedes enthusiast, drawn to the GL-Class’s established presence, or maybe you’re curious about how the newer, larger BMW X7 stacks up. This comparison is designed to cut through the noise, providing clear insights so you can make a confident decision. We’ll break down exactly what each vehicle brings to the table, helping you understand their nuanced strengths and weaknesses.

Mercedes GL-Class 2016 vs BMW X7: The Ultimate Comparison

When comparing the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class with the BMW X7, it’s essential to recognize that they represent different stages in the evolution of full-size luxury SUVs. The 2016 GL-Class, part of the X166 generation, was a mature and highly capable vehicle. The BMW X7, on the other hand, is a much newer entrant, first introduced for the 2019 model year. This means the X7 benefits from more contemporary design principles, advanced technology, and potentially different driving dynamics. Despite the chronological gap, both vehicles aim to provide three-row seating, premium amenities, and a commanding presence on the road.

For 2016, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class was offered in several trims, each catering to different desires for power and luxury. The GL 350 BlueTEC featured a turbodiesel engine, the GL 450 came with a twin-turbo V6, and the GL 550 boasted a more powerful twin-turbo V8. For the ultimate performance, the GL 63 AMG was also available. Each model provided a robust, comfortable, and technologically rich experience that was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time. It was a vehicle designed for families who needed ample space but didn’t want to compromise on luxury or driveability overhead.

The BMW X7 arrived several years later, with BMW aiming to create a benchmark in the segment. It was envisioned as a larger, more luxurious alternative to the X5, focusing on executive travel and family hauling with an emphasis on the latest innovations. The X7’s design language is characterized by its larger kidney grille and a more imposing stance compared to many of its predecessors. Inside, it leveraged BMW’s latest iDrive infotainment system and offered a cabin that many critics found to be exceptionally well-appointed and spacious, even in the third row.

Let’s dive deeper into what truly sets these two apart.

Powertrain and Performance: Muscle and Refinement

The heart of any luxury SUV lies in its engine and how it translates power to the pavement. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered a variety of potent options, each with its own character. The BMW X7, being newer, generally offers more advanced and efficient powertrains by comparison, often with a focus on smooth acceleration and refined power delivery.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Powertrain Options:

• GL 350 BlueTEC (Diesel): This model featured a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine. It was renowned for its impressive fuel economy and substantial torque, making it great for long-distance cruising and towing. It produced around 240 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque.
• GL 450: Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, this variant offered a good balance of performance and efficiency for its size. It delivered approximately 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
• GL 550: Stepping up, the GL 550 featured a larger 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, providing significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience. It typically put out around 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
• GL 63 AMG: For those seeking ultimate performance, the hand-built AMG version housed a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, generating a formidable 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, mated to AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT transmission for exhilarating acceleration.

All 2016 GL-Class models came standard with Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed automatic transmission, emphasizing stability and confident handling in various conditions. The ride quality was typically plush, prioritizing comfort over sporty aggression, though the AMG model certainly offered a more dynamic feel.

BMW X7 Powertrain Options (First Generation – G07):

The BMW X7, introduced for the 2019 model year, generally features more modern engine technology often paired with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive.

• X7 xDrive40i: Typically equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powertrain offers a smooth and responsive experience, delivering around 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.
• X7 xDrive50i (Discontinued in later model years, replaced by M50i): An earlier top-tier option featured a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This engine provided substantial power, often around 456 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
• X7 M50i: A performance-oriented V8 model, featuring a more potent version of the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, producing upwards of 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, offering a distinctly sportier drive.
• X7 Alpina XB7: For the ultimate in performance and luxury, Alpina tunes the V8 for even greater power and refinement, often exceeding 600 horsepower.

The X7’s chassis was designed to offer a blend of comfort and dynamic capability. While it’s a large SUV, BMW aims to provide a more engaging driving experience than some rivals, especially in its more powerful variants. Active roll stabilization and adaptive air suspension are often standard or available, contributing to a composed ride and agile handling for its size.

Exterior Design and Presence

The visual appeal of these large luxury SUVs is a significant factor for many buyers. The 2016 GL-Class presented a more traditional, upright, and somewhat understated luxury aesthetic, while the BMW X7 opted for a bolder, more contemporary design language.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Exterior:

• The GL-Class featured a commanding, yet elegant, design. It blended Mercedes-Benz’s signature grille and headlight design with a substantial, boxy profile that maximized interior space.
• Its lines were clean and sophisticated, conveying a sense of robust capability and understated luxury.
• The dimensions were impressive, clearly signaling its role as a full-size, three-row SUV built for comfort and presence.

BMW X7 Exterior:

• The X7 is characterized by its prominent, larger kidney grille, which has become a signature of modern BMW design.
• Its silhouette is more sculpted and athletic than the GL-Class, with sharper character lines and a more dynamic stance.
• LED headlights and taillights are standard, and design elements aim to impart a sense of grandeur and modern dynamism.
• The X7 often appears more imposing and overtly luxurious due to its design cues and larger overall footprint.

The choice between them often comes down to personal preference: the classic, dignified elegance of the GL-Class versus the bolder, more assertive modern design of the X7.

Interior Comfort and Luxuries

Inside, both the GL-Class and the X7 aim to provide a first-class experience, but they approach it with slightly different philosophies. The GL-Class offers a well-appointed and comfortable cabin, while the X7, being newer, typically features more advanced materials, design, and technology.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Interior:

• Seating: Generous seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The first two rows are particularly spacious and comfortable, with ample legroom. The third row is best suited for children or occasional adult use but is still functional.
• Materials: High-quality leather, wood trim, and soft-touch plastics were standard, creating a premium ambiance.
• Infotainment: The COMAND infotainment system was present, offering navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a central display screen. While functional, it might feel less intuitive or advanced compared to newer systems.
• Comfort Features: Power-adjustable front seats with heating, multi-zone climate control, and a power liftgate were common. Options like ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof enhanced the experience.

BMW X7 Interior:

• Seating: Also a seven-seater, the X7 often offers captain’s chairs in the second row as standard or an option, enhancing comfort for those passengers. The third row is generally considered more usable than in many competitors, thanks to BMW’s design focus.
• Materials: BMW utilizes premium materials, including high-grade leather (like Vernasca or Nappa), exquisite wood veneers, and metal accents. The cabin design feels more modern and layered.
• Infotainment: Features BMW’s latest iDrive infotainment system, which is highly praised for its user-friendliness, sharp graphics, and extensive features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (depending on model year and options). A digital instrument cluster is also standard.
• Comfort Features: Standard amenities often include heated and power-adjustable seats, a panoramic glass roof, four-zone automatic climate control, and a power-folding third row. Optional features can include advanced climate control, heated armrests, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

The X7 generally has a slight edge in terms of modern interior design and technology integration, offering a more cutting-edge feel. However, the GL-Class still provides a very luxurious and comfortable environment that stands the test of time.

Technology and Safety Features

In the realm of safety and technology, the vehicles reflect their respective production eras. The 2016 GL-Class was well-equipped for its time, featuring many of Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering safety systems. The X7, being newer, incorporates the very latest advancements.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Technology & Safety:

• Active Safety: Common features included PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety systems, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, and optional systems like DISTRONIC PLUS (adaptive cruise control), Blind Spot Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist.
• Standard Safety: A robust set of airbags, electronic stability control, ABS, and a rearview camera were standard.
• Infotainment: As mentioned, the COMAND system with navigation, USB/Bluetooth connectivity, and an 8-inch central display.
• Convenience: Keyless ignition, power liftgate.

Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety is evident in the GL-Class, with many advanced driver-assistance systems available, though some might be considered precursors to today’s more integrated suite of features.

BMW X7 Technology & Safety:

• Active Safety: The X7 comes with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, often including Active Driving Assistant (which bundles features like frontal collision warning, active blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and speed limit info), adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, and improved lane centering assist.
• Standard Safety: Multiple airbags, stability and traction control, a rearview camera, and parking sensors are standard.
• Infotainment: BMW’s iDrive system is highly advanced, featuring a large touchscreen, voice control, wireless Apple CarPlay, and often integrated navigation. BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully digital instrument cluster is standard.
• Convenience: Features like a head-up display, gesture control (on some models), remote engine start, and a power-adjustable steering column are often available or standard.

The X7 clearly holds an advantage in terms of the breadth, integration, and sophistication of its technology and safety features, reflecting its position as a contemporary luxury vehicle.

Space and Practicality: Family Haulers

For a large luxury SUV, practicality is paramount. Both the GL-Class and the X7 are designed to accommodate families and their gear, but there are nuances in their cargo space and third-row usability.

Cargo Space:

While exact figures can vary slightly by specific trim and configuration, both offer significant cargo capacity.

Vehicle	Cargo Space (behind 3rd row)	Cargo Space (behind 2nd row)	Cargo Space (behind 1st row)
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class	Approximately 16-19 cubic feet	Approximately 47-50 cubic feet	Approximately 79-83 cubic feet
BMW X7 (G07)	Approximately 12-13 cubic feet	Approximately 48-50 cubic feet	Approximately 90-91 cubic feet

As you can see, the GL-Class of 2016 often offered slightly more cargo space with all seats in use. However, the X7 often boasts a more generous maximum cargo capacity when the second and third rows are folded flat, showcasing its modern packaging.

Third-Row Seating:

Both are three-row vehicles, but the usability of the third row can differ.

• 2016 GL-Class: The third row is functional and power-folding, but it’s best suited for children or shorter adults on shorter journeys. Accessing it can be a bit tight, especially if car seats are in the second row.
• BMW X7: BMW engineers have made a concerted effort to make the X7’s third row more accommodating. It generally offers better legroom and headroom than many competitors in its class, and access is often facilitated by a more user-friendly mechanism for folding the second-row seats. While still not as spacious as a dedicated minivan, it’s a significant improvement for adult passengers.

For families prioritizing maximum third-row comfort and frequent use, the X7 typically holds an advantage.

Driving Experience: Comfort vs. Sportiness

How these large SUVs feel on the road is a critical differentiator. Mercedes-Benz traditionally leans towards a more compliant and serene ride, while BMW emphasizes dynamic handling and driver engagement.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Driving Feel:

• The GL-Class is engineered for supreme comfort. Its suspension absorbs road imperfections exceptionally well, creating a quiet and smooth ride.
• Steering is light and predictable, making it easy to maneuver for its size, though it doesn’t offer a great deal of road feedback.
• Acceleration, especially from the V8 models, is strong and effortless. The diesel provides excellent low-end grunt for relaxed cruising.
• It feels substantial and secure, a true long-distance cruiser.

BMW X7 Driving Feel:

• The X7 aims to blend comfort with a more engaging driving dynamic. While it excels at providing a plush ride, especially with the optional adaptive suspension, it also feels more athletic and responsive than the GL-Class.
• The steering is more communicative, and the chassis possesses a level of agility that belies its size.
• Power delivery from its engines is smooth and potent, with the V8 models offering substantial acceleration.
• BMW’s xDrive system is rear-biased, contributing to a more dynamic feel.

If your priority is a supremely comfortable, quiet, and relaxed journey, the GL-Class might appeal more. If you prefer a larger SUV that still offers a sense of sportiness and driver connection, the X7 is likely the better choice.

Maintenance and Reliability Considerations

Both Mercedes-Benz and BMW are premium brands, and their maintenance costs can reflect that. As the 2016 GL-Class is an older vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of common wear-and-tear items.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (X166):

• Maintenance Costs: Expect higher maintenance and repair costs compared to non-luxury brands. Parts and specialized labor for Mercedes-Benz vehicles can be expensive.
• Common Issues: Potential concerns for this model year can include air suspension issues (though generally robust on the GL/GLS), transmission glitches, and electrical system faults. Regular maintenance, as outlined by the manufacturer (often detailed on sites like <a href="https