When I first laid eyes on the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, it was a moment of awe. The sleek, aggressive lines of this high-performance SUV seemed almost out of place against the backdrop of my suburban neighborhood. I had always been fascinated by the intersection of luxury and power, and the GLS 63 promised to deliver on both fronts. But the allure of its rival, the BMW Alpina XB7, was equally compelling. Both were colossal beasts, designed to blend the practicality of a family SUV with the performance of a sports car, and both carried a price tag of around $175,000. It felt like the perfect setup for a thrilling comparison.
The journey began when I decided to test drive both vehicles to see which one could claim the crown in my heart. My first stop was the Mercedes-AMG dealership. The GLS 63 had been described as the epitome of luxury and performance, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. As I approached the SUV, the massive 22-inch wheels and the imposing AMG grille commanded attention. I slid into the driver’s seat, greeted by a cabin that exuded opulence. The Nappa leather, carbon fiber accents, and the impressive MBUX infotainment system made it clear that this wasn’t just an SUV—it was a statement.
Starting the engine was a theatrical experience. The 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine roared to life, filling the cabin with a deep, resonant growl. With 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, the GLS 63 was a beast, but it was a refined one. I eased it out of the dealership and onto the road. From the moment I pressed the accelerator, the GLS 63 exhibited a potent blend of power and sophistication. The 9-speed automatic transmission shifted seamlessly, delivering a smooth yet exhilarating ride. The adaptive air suspension, coupled with the AMG-tuned dynamic select modes, allowed me to switch between a comfortable cruiser and a performance-oriented machine at the flick of a button.
On the highway, the GLS 63 felt like a powerhouse. The acceleration was impressive, and the vehicle’s sheer size did nothing to detract from its agility. Handling was surprisingly responsive for such a large SUV, and the ride quality was nothing short of exceptional. The advanced driver assistance systems provided an extra layer of confidence, making long stretches of highway driving effortless.
After a satisfying stint with the GLS 63, I headed over to the BMW dealership to check out the Alpina XB7. The Alpina was a different breed, showcasing BMW’s ability to blend performance with luxury in its unique way. From the moment I saw the XB7, its distinctive Alpina touches were evident. The subtle yet sophisticated Alpina blue paint and the understated styling cues hinted at its performance capabilities without being too ostentatious.
Inside, the XB7 was equally impressive. The cabin was a blend of high-quality materials and advanced technology. The leather upholstery, with its meticulous stitching, and the beautifully crafted dashboard created an atmosphere of refined luxury. The driving position was commanding, and the iDrive system was intuitive and responsive.
Starting the engine of the Alpina XB7 was an experience of its own. The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 612 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, roared to life with a more subdued yet powerful growl. The XB7’s 8-speed automatic transmission delivered a smoother, more seamless shifting experience compared to the GLS 63. As I set off, it quickly became apparent that the Alpina was designed with a focus on dynamic performance.
On the road, the XB7 felt incredibly agile for its size. The air suspension, which featured Alpina’s unique tuning, provided a firm yet comfortable ride. The handling was precise, and the steering offered excellent feedback. The performance was immediate and exhilarating, especially when I put my foot down on the accelerator. The Alpina XB7 had a way of making you feel like you were driving a much smaller, sportier vehicle.
One aspect where the XB7 truly shined was in its driving dynamics. The vehicle seemed to almost shrink around me, responding with remarkable agility and precision. The BMW’s performance-oriented chassis and suspension setup made it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV, which was a delightful surprise.
Comparing the two, both the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and the BMW Alpina XB7 offered incredible performance and luxury, but they approached it in different ways. The GLS 63 was a more traditional luxury SUV with an emphasis on comfort and power, while the XB7 leaned towards a sportier, more dynamic driving experience.
Choosing between them came down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a high-performance SUV that prioritizes comfort and luxury, the GLS 63 is hard to beat. Its powerful engine and luxurious interior make it a top choice for those who want a grand driving experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a sportier, more agile ride that still delivers on luxury, the Alpina XB7 could be the better option. Its handling and dynamic performance offer a thrilling driving experience that sets it apart.
Ultimately, my decision came down to what I valued most in a high-performance SUV. Both vehicles were exceptional in their own right, but they catered to different tastes. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 delivered on its promise of luxury and power, while the BMW Alpina XB7 provided a sportier, more engaging driving experience. It was a tough choice, but in the end, it was a delightful one, reflecting just how far automotive engineering has come in blending performance with everyday practicality.