In the competitive world of luxury SUVs, a few names stand out when it comes to combining space, comfort, and ultimate prestige. The conversation for a premium 7-seater SUV in India often revolves around the Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, BMW X7, and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
However, a common question we at Motozite encounter is this: Is it worth spending an extra ₹30-40 lakh on the flagship BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS when the equally capable Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 are available for around ₹1 crore?
This guide breaks down the key differences-from pricing and features to driving experience and ownership costs-to help you make an informed decision when choosing a 7-seater luxury SUV.
BMW X7 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS vs. Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Compared
| Feature | BMW X7 | Mercedes-Benz GLS | Volvo XC90 | Audi Q7 |
| Price (Ex-Showroom India) | ₹1.31 Cr onwards | ₹1.37 Cr onwards | ₹1.03Crores onwards | ₹99.81 Lakh onwards |
| Engine Options | 3.0L I6 petrol/diesel, | 3.0L I6 petrol (mild-hybrid) | 2.0L petrol (mild-hybrid) | 3.0L V6 |
| Performance (0–100 km/h) | ~5.8 sec (xDrive40i) | ~6.2 sec (GLS 450) | ~7.7 sec (B6 Ultimate) | ~7.1 sec (55 TFSI) |
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Interior Tech | Curved display, iDrive 8, ambient light | MBUX dual screens, voice assist | Google built-in, CleanZone air filter | MMI, Virtual Cockpit, Bang & Olufsen audio |
| Ride Comfort | Plush air suspension | Extremely refined, floaty feel | Comfort-focused, Scandinavian minimalism | Balanced ride, sporty yet refined |
| Boot Space | 326L | 355L | 680L | 780L (3rd row down) |
| Safety Rating | 5-Star (Global NCAP) | 5-Star (Euro NCAP) | 5-Star (Euro NCAP) | 5-Star (Euro NCAP) |
| USP | Sporty performance + luxury | Regal road presence + ultimate comfort | Eco-conscious, elegant, value-packed | Well-balanced, tech-rich, family SUV |
1. Ex-Showroom Prices: The Two-Tiered Market
The market for these luxury SUVs can be split into two distinct pricing tiers.
Tier 1: Around ₹1 crore ex-showroom
- Volvo XC90 B5 Ultimate (Mild Hybrid): ₹1,03,89,900
- Audi Q7 Technology (55 TFSI): ₹99,81,000
Tier 2: The Flagship Contenders (Above ₹1.3 crore ex-showroom)
- BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport: ₹1,31,40,000
- Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC: ₹1,34,00,000
The substantial price gap is not merely for the badge. It reflects a fundamental difference in size, performance, and the level of luxury, which we explore in detail below.
Note: Prices are ex-showroom (New Delhi) as of August 2025 and are subject to change. For the latest pricing and offers, always confirm with the official websites or contact the Motozite team for ongoing offers.
2. Size and Road Presence: The Defining Factor
This is where the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS immediately justify their premium. They are true full-size luxury SUVs, significantly larger than their rivals, which translates directly to superior cabin space and a commanding road presence.
| Model | Length (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) |
| Audi Q7 | 5064 | 2999 |
| Volvo XC90 | 4953 | 2984 |
| BMW X7 | 5181 | 3105 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS | 5207 | 3135 |
For buyers prioritizing third-row comfort and an imposing stance on the road, the X7 and GLS offer a tangible advantage that the numbers clearly show.
3. Performance & Driving Dynamics
The performance of these 7-seater luxury SUVs also varies considerably, reflecting their price points.
- Audi Q7 (55 TFSI): Powered by a 3.0L V6 petrol engine producing 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque. It’s a smooth, quiet, and capable all-rounder, offering a balanced ride.
- Volvo XC90 (B5 Mild Hybrid): Its 2.0L mild-hybrid petrol engine generates 247 hp and 350 Nm of torque. It prioritizes fuel efficiency and a comfortable, relaxed drive, but feels less potent than its German counterparts.
- BMW X7 (xDrive40i): With a 3.0L inline-six petrol engine, it delivers 381 hp and 520 Nm of torque. This is the enthusiast’s choice among the flagships, offering an engaging drive and a quick 0-100 km/h sprint of around 5.8 seconds.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS (450): The 3.0L inline-six petrol engine, similar to the X7, produces 375 hp and 500 Nm of torque. It is engineered for effortless cruising and superior ride comfort, with a softer feel than the sportier X7.
The extra investment in an X7 or GLS brings a significant bump in power, refinement, and high-speed stability.
4. Cabin Experience and Features
While all four are premium vehicles, the flagship luxury SUVs offer a more opulent and technologically advanced cabin.
- Audi Q7: Features a practical and well-appointed interior with a great Bang & Olufsen audio system, but its third row is the least spacious of the group.
- Volvo XC90: Known for its minimalist Scandinavian design and an excellent air purifier. The infotainment system, however, feels slightly less modern compared to its rivals.
- BMW X7: Features a state-of-the-art cabin with the latest curved displays, iDrive 8, and premium touches like a crystal gear lever. It feels exceptionally modern and high-tech.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS: Offers the widest cabin and the most comfortable ride, thanks to its ultra-soft air suspension. It boasts features like the Burmester 3D surround sound system and an interior ambiance that rivals an S-Class sedan.
The jump in cabin quality from an XC90 or Q7 to an X7 or GLS is substantial and often cited as the main reason for the higher price tag.
5. Practical Ownership Costs
All these luxury SUVs have higher running costs than mainstream cars, but there are differences to note.
| Model | Real-World Mileage (km/l) | Avg. Annual Service Cost (with package) |
| Audi Q7 | 8-10 | ₹60,000-₹70,000 |
| Volvo XC90 | 10-11 | ₹50,000-₹60,000 |
| BMW X7 | 7-9 | ₹1.0-₹1.2 lakh (BMW BSI package) |
| Mercedes GLS | 7-8 | ₹1.2-₹1.3 lakh (Star Ease package) |
While the Tier 1 models are marginally easier on the wallet for maintenance and fuel, the prepaid service packages of the German brands provide predictable costs. Depreciation is steep for all luxury SUVs, but the X7 and GLS tend to hold their value slightly better in the long run.
6. The Final Verdict: Is the Extra Spend Justified?
- Choose the Audi Q7 or Volvo XC90 if you need a spacious, safe, and well-equipped family SUV primarily for city use or occasional highway trips, and you don’t want to stretch your budget unnecessarily.
- Choose the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS if you are looking for flagship-level comfort, an undeniably premium cabin, more powerful engines, and a car that feels a class above its rivals in every aspect. These are the definitive 7-seater luxury SUVs for those who demand the very best.
Our customer feedback confirms that for those who make the jump to an X7 or GLS, the decision is rarely regretted. The sense of luxury, space, and prestige they offer is a significant upgrade that justifies the premium price.
Motozite’s Expert Tip: If you’re hesitant about the high initial cost, consider going for a demo BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS. These nearly-new showroom cars often come with 10-20% depreciation, letting you enjoy flagship luxury at a significantly smarter price-while still being the first registered owner. At Motozite, we list top-condition demo units that offer exceptional value without compromising on experience.