For 2021, BMW reshuffles the X7 lineup by dropping the 456-hp, V-8-powered xDrive50i—the 523-hp M50i continues—and adding the 612-hp Alpina XB7. The latter is the first SUV that the BMW tuning specialist has offered in the U.S. The xDrive40i's powertrain gets a 48-volt starter-generator which, surprisingly, worsens its EPA fuel-economy figures; both its city and highway ratings drop by 1 mpg.
PROS Powertrains' deliciously smooth power, interior as quiet as a library but much comfier, Alpina XB7 is hilariously quick and athletic.
CONS Excessive body roll around corners, cabin and cargo spaces are smaller than expected, power rear seats are S-L-O-W.
The 2021 BMW X7 doesn’t compromise roominess, comfort, performance, or price.
PROS Standard heated armrests, seats, steering wheel Balance of comfort and power Excellent standard features Large touchscreen Larger than competition
CONS Expensive Small cargo with all seats up Two trims, essentially
The 2021 BMW X7 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.High-performance, ultra-plush Alpina XB7 is new to the lineup.The X7 xDrive50i trim and optional off-road package are no longer available.Limited-edition Dark Shadow model debuts with unique paint and trim.
PROS Strong engine performance Smooth ride Impeccable interior
CONS Expensive for the class Climate controls can be confusing to use Some systems don't behave as you'd expect
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is a three-row crossover SUV that redefines luxurious family transport.
Pros Sublime demeanor Posh interior Strong turbocharged engines Impressive dynamics AMG, Maybach editions sure to come
Cons Hefty price Hefty curb weight Hefty fuel consumption Occasional cheap touch
Sitting atop the Mercedes-Benz SUV hierarchy is the spacious and indisputably luxurious GLS-Class. It's all new for 2020 and it has big shoes to fill—we've named the outgoing GLS-Class to our 10Best Trucks and SUVs list for three straight years—but our first impressions of this new big Benz are very good.
Pros Tech-rich cabin, spacious in all three rows, refined powertrains.
Cons Anonymous styling, fussy infotainment system, heavily optioned models carry high price tags
New styling in line with other Mercedes SUVs.Powerful mild hybrid powertrains.Standard adjustable air suspension.All-new third GLS generation launched for 2020.
Pros MBUX infotainment is outstanding Tops in comfort and easily seats adults in all three rows Flexible cargo capacity Responsive powertrains feel like driving a smaller SUV
Cons Not as off-road-worthy as some rugged competitors Somewhat vague steering with large wheels and thin tires MBUX has a steep learning curve
