The 2017 BMW X6 started the coupe-like SUV trend, and keeps above the fold with potent powertrains.We know what the BMW X6 is not: It's not a coupe. It's not an SUV. It's not even really much of a family car. We also know that it's not alone. Since it showed up nearly a decade ago, the X6 has been copied by Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover, and others. Even BMW sells an smaller version of the X6, the X4, and reportedly a smaller X2 is in the works.
Pros Stylish body V-8 is compelling in its performance Functional rear seat New touchscreen
Cons A $6,000 premium over the X5 Ride is a little harsh Not an off-roader and not a super sedan
For 2017, the BMW X6 gets an updated iDrive system with touchscreen technology. The Premium and Executive option packages also now include wireless cellphone charging and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Pros Powerful engines Agile dynamics Comfortable and quiet ride Top-quality interior with comfortable front seats and ample storage.
Cons Small cargo area Poor rearward visibility Limited rear headroom Rear seats don't recline Priced higher than many other luxury SUVs.
The 2017 BMW X6 ranks 15 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 BMW X6 sits around the middle of our luxury midsize SUV rankings. Its stellar performance credentials keep it from falling too close to the bottom, but it doesn't have enough positives to elevate it above middling.
Pros Powerful engine choices Sporty handling Upscale interior Intuitive infotainment
Cons Small back seat Minimal cargo room High price
The GLS-Class officially makes its debut for 2017, though it's really a slightly revised version of the outgoing GL-Class. Highlights include modified exterior styling, a newly standard nine-speed automatic transmission (except on the AMG GLS 63) and a touchpad-operated infotainment system with a larger screen and available Apple CarPlay. Also, all engines except the GLS450's turbocharged V6 get a bit more horsepower this year.
Pros Third row is large enough for adults Spirited acceleration with any of the three gasoline engines Impressive fuel economy with the diesel engine Quiet cabin with high-end trimmings and features.
Cons Diesel-powered model feels relatively slow when passing and merging Big price jump from the six-cylinder models to the V8-powered versions.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets the first-class upgrade along with its name change—and a Maybach edition is waiting in the wings. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class marks a significant, mid-cycle upgrade for what was previously knew as the GL-Class. As part of a nomenclature change sweeping the entire brand, each of the German luxury maker's sport-utility vehicles has received new badging and a full or partial makeover to bring the lineup into more obvious parallels with its sedans—so this large, three-row SUV becomes the GLS, to align it with the largest S-Class sedan. Hence the S in its new name.
Pros Spacious, flexible interior Rugged-lux, with some added panache Great set of safety, infotainment features
Cons Not an entirely new vehicle Some switchgear looks dated Cumbersome COMAND interface
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ranks 1 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS hits most of the right notes for a large SUV. It boasts a supple ride, three powerful engine choices, three rows of roomy seats, and the same level of luxury that has come to be synonymous with the brand. However, the GLS has fewer standard features than many rivals do, and its available V8 engines are less fuel-efficient than those offered by many competitors.
Pros Powerful engine lineup Smooth ride Three rows of spacious seats
Cons Fewer features than some rivals V8 engines get subpar fuel economy
