2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs 2026 BMW X5 M
Comparison Overview
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class reigns supreme as the paragon of serene, expansive luxury, starting at a competitive $89,200 and offering a respectable 21 MPG combined. Its massive 205.0-inch frame promises opulent space and comfort, backed by 375 horsepower for effortless highway cruising. Conversely, the 2026 BMW X5 M is an absolute brute, unleashing a ferocious 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque to dominate the asphalt. While the GLS focuses on dignified travel, the X5 M sacrifices efficiency, delivering only 19 MPG city, for blistering performance. This comparison highlights a $40,500 gap in initial investment, where the BMW demands a significant premium for its staggering 242 horsepower advantage over the more sensible three-row German flagship.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS-Class offers better fuel economy at 21 MPG combined versus the performance-focused X5 M.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS-Class is significantly longer at 205.0 inches and likely offers superior third-row comfort and utility.
2026 BMW X5 M
The X5 M crushes the competition with an exhilarating 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS-Class is drastically cheaper at $89,200, undercutting the X5 M by $40,500.
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class if...
- You prioritize cost savings, as the MSRP of $89,200 is $40,500 less than Car 2.
- You need the ultimate family hauler, evidenced by its substantial 205.0-inch length.
- You require slightly better mileage, returning 24 MPG on the highway with its 375 hp engine.
Choose the BMW X5 M if...
- Unadulterated performance matters most, given its enormous 617 hp output.
- You need maximum utility, as the X5 M offers 33.9 cu ft of cargo capacity.
- You want a tighter, sportier footprint, being 10.2 inches shorter in length than Car 1.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class | BMW X5 M |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 205.0" | 194.8" |
| Width | 79.9" | 79.3" |
| Height | 71.8" | 69.4" |
| Wheelbase | 123.4" | 117.0" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | — |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Third Row Head Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Brake Drying | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cornering Lights | ✓ | — |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Power Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 3.0 L | 4.4 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 6 | V8 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 375 hp @ 5800 rpm | 617 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 553 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 24 | 32 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | — |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (required) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 19/24 MPG | — |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 21 MPG | — |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 452.2/571.2 mi. | 0/0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23.8 gal. | 21.9 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Side View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | — |
| Automatic Parking Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3rd Row Cupholders | ✓ | — |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | — |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Power Rear Seat Easy Entry | ✓ | — |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Four Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors with Side Sensing | — | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Extended Cabin Heating/Cooling | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 14.9 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Premium Speaker Brand | Burmester | Harman/Kardon |
| Stereo Power | 590W | 464W |
| Speaker System | 13 | 16 |
| Subwoofer Count | 2 | — |
| Surround Audio | Discrete | Discrete |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 6 months | 12 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | — |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass Extended | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.4 in. | 40.8 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.3 in. | 39.8 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.3 in. | 61.4 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 60.8 in. | — |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | — |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 10-way | 14-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 2 |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 10-way | 14-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Thigh Extension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Memory Settings | 3 | 2 |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Driver Seat Ventilation | ✓ | — |
| Passenger Seat Ventilation | ✓ | — |
| Seat Material: Premium Leather | — | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 40.2 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 41.9 in. | 37.4 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.5 in. | 60.0 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 60.0 in. | — |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | — |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | — |
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | ✓ | — |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | — | ✓ |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 21 x 11.0 in. | 22 x 11.5 in. |
| Tire Type | All Season | Performance |
| Tire Size | 315/40R21 | 315/30R |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
Suspension
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | 6 yr./ 62000 mi. | — |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and 2026 BMW X5 M.
What is the major performance difference between the 2025 GLS-Class and the 2026 X5 M?
The BMW X5 M boasts a staggering 617 horsepower, giving it a massive 242 hp advantage over the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class's 375 hp. This power disparity translates to a significantly more visceral acceleration experience in the X5 M.
How does the price point compare for these two luxury SUVs?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class starts at $89,200, making it a far more accessible luxury proposition. The 2026 BMW X5 M commands a premium price tag of $129,700, representing a $40,500 difference.
Is the X5 M practical for daily commuting considering its power?
While thrilling, the X5 M's focus on power results in lower efficiency; it consumes premium fuel readily. The GLS-Class provides better commuting efficiency, achieving 21 MPG combined versus the X5 M’s implied lower figure.
Which vehicle offers more room for cargo and passengers?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is physically larger, measuring 205.0 inches long, which usually translates to better overall passenger space. However, the X5 M reports a higher stated cargo capacity of 33.9 cu ft compared to the GLS-Class's 17.4 cu ft.
Are both vehicles equipped with All-Wheel Drive?
Yes, both the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and the 2026 BMW X5 M utilize an All-Wheel Drive system to manage their power delivery effectively.
Which car requires premium fuel?
Both the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and the 2026 BMW X5 M explicitly require premium unleaded fuel for optimal operation.
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