Most buyers will be well-served by the GLS 450. It delivers solid performance along with its luxurious cabin, plus it leaves room for customization with numerous options packages.
PROS Spacious third-row seat can accommodate adults Ample acceleration with any powertrain choice Quiet cabin with luxurious trim Available off-road package gives it true capability in the dirt
CONS Many desirable features don't come standard Large price jump from GLS 450 to GLS 550
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS takes an old-school tack to modern-SUV design, and it works.
Pros Lots of room Lots of flexibility Big luxury SUV panache Lots of safety technology on tap AMG–no, really
Cons Dated switchgear COMAND is cumbersome Diesel’s been deleted
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ranked #2 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has a score of 8.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 38 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Fuel-efficient V6 Handsome, spacious cabin Smooth ride
Cons Fewer standard features than some rivals
The 2017 BMW X5 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Astounding acceleration Comprehensively equipped Upscale interior with excellent fit and finish.
Cons Touchy gas pedal Ride may be too firm for some tastes No third-row seat offered IDrive still requires too many clicks to accomplish everyday tasks.
Although the 2017 BMW X5 gets called a "sports-activity vehicle" or SAV by its maker, we know a luxury SUV when we see one. Going head to head against the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE, the 2017 X5 emphasizes the "sport" part of sport-utility vehicle. The resulting lineup of luxury SUV models includes a hybrid, a diesel, and even a fire-breathing M version, all of which are fun to drive. The X5 is big, but still midsize, so it's easy to manage through traffic and parking lots, while remaining roomy and comfortable at the same time. Note that the "utility" part doesn't extend as far off-road as you can go in a Land Rover or even a Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Pros If you want a luxury-sports sedan, but need the room of an SUV, then the BMW X5 should definitely be on your short list. With its wide range of powertrain options and excellent handling, there's an X5 for just about anyone willing to spend $50,000 or more.
Cons The X5's charms don't come cheap, and if you want a more luxurious ride -- that is, softer -- you might be better suited with a Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX or Audi Q7. If you need more room, check out the larger Mercedes-Benz GL or Infiniti QX80.
The BMW X5 M is now the undisputed king of high-performance SUVs – quicker than similar rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Range Rover Sport SVR and Mercedes GLE63. The X5 M is a combination of sports car performance and luxury SUV practicality and capability. That may sound like a great recipe at first, but it’s never going to drive like a proper sports car. The exterior styling of the X5 M isn’t in any way devastatingly attractive, although its brutal design is a match for its performance. If you absolutely have to have the fastest and most powerful luxury SUV, then the X5 M is a worthy alternative to the pricier Bentley Bentayga.
Pros Fabulous engine Superb handling Tons of technology
Cons Ageing styling Small rear seats Can get pricy with
