2026 BMW X7 vs 2025 GLS vs 2025 Q8

When luxury, performance, and innovation come together, only a few SUVs meet the mark. The 2026 BMW X7, 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS, and 2025 Audi Q8 each present strong contenders in the full-size SUV market, but the BMW X7 rises above with a stronger mix of power, refinement, and technology. At BMW of Sarasota, we proudly showcase the 2026 BMW X7 for drivers who expect more from their SUV experience. Whether you seek a performance-driven commute, family-ready versatility, or sophisticated comfort, the X7 checks every box.

Commanding Design, Inside and Out

The exterior of the 2026 BMW X7 strikes a balance between elegance and strength. Bold proportions, a wide stance, and available 23-inch wheels give it unmistakable road presence. Standard LED lighting, satin aluminum accents, and a power tailgate are complemented by a panoramic moonroof and the iconic BMW kidney grille. Premium touches like crystal headlights and chrome exhaust tips amplify the upscale persona of the 2026 BMW X7 at our BMW dealership near Bradenton, FL.

Step inside and you’ll find a spacious cabin that prioritizes comfort across all three rows. Standard Sensafin^® upholstery feels soft and supportive, while optional Merino leather upgrades the environment further. Choose between standard seven-passenger seating or six-passenger captain’s chairs, both paired with four-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and multi-contour heated front seats. The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers similar room, but lacks the finely tuned material quality and available five-zone climate control. The Audi Q8 seats five and omits a third row entirely, limiting its practicality compared to the 2026 BMW X7 interior.

Power and Poise Across Every Trim

Drivers exploring performance across these three luxury SUVs will find the 2026 BMW X7 leading the charge. The base BMW X7 xDrive40i trim features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 375 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, enhanced by a 48V mild hybrid system for responsive acceleration and improved efficiency. Those craving more can opt for the 523-horsepower V8 of the BMW X7 M60i or the Alpina XB7 with a staggering 631 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive, adjustable air suspension, and Driving Dynamics Control allow the 2026 BMW X7 at our BMW dealership in Sarasota, FL, to adapt effortlessly to every road and driver preference.

In comparison, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a 3.0-liter inline-six or an available 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. While capable, neither matches the refined force of the 2026 BMW X7 Alpina XB7 or the athleticism of the M60i. The 2025 Audi Q8 lags behind with only two rows and a 335-horsepower V6 in standard models. Though the SQ8 and RS Q8 offer more performance, they sacrifice luxury ride quality in pursuit of speed. For the driver who wants balance—muscle when it matters, comfort when it counts—the 2026 BMW X7 at BMW of Sarasota stands alone.

Safety That Stays Ahead of the Curve

Safety takes center stage in the 2026 BMW X7 for sale at our BMW dealership near Venice, FL. Standard features include lane keeping assist, forward collision mitigation, blind spot detection, and speed limit recognition. Parking Distance Control and a rearview camera simplify tight spaces, while the backup assistant and automatic parking assist handle complex maneuvers with confidence.

BMW also offers the optional Driving Assistance Professional Package with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and traffic jam assist—perfect for long highway stretches. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS matches much of this with its own suite of driver aids but requires premium trims for similar advanced tools. The 2025 Audi Q8 features Audi’s Pre Sense safety suite but lacks the breadth of available hands-free highway aids. When it comes to offering confidence behind the wheel, the 2026 BMW X7 at BMW of Sarasota leads the segment.

Technology Designed for the Modern Driver

Tech-savvy shoppers will appreciate the immersive digital experience in the 2026 BMW X7 interior. Anchored by a curved display that fuses a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, this system runs BMW Operating System 9 for lightning-fast responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay^®, Android^™ Auto, and an Intelligent Personal Assistant bring hands-free convenience, while an available Bowers & Wilkins^® Diamond Surround Sound System delivers 1,500 watts of premium audio clarity.

A wireless charger, personal 5G eSIM, and My BMW App come standard, too, within the 2026 BMW X7 interior. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS introduces its own MBUX system and voice assistant, but the interface can feel less intuitive. The 2025 Audi Q8 uses Audi’s MMI touch response, which includes dual displays but lacks the visual integration of BMW’s curved screen. In terms of connectivity, layout, and responsiveness, the 2026 BMW X7 for sale in Sarasota, FL, offers a digital experience that feels both futuristic and user-friendly.

Drive the 2026 BMW X7 in Sarasota, FL

Choosing from the 2026 BMW X7, 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS, and 2025 Audi Q8 is easier once you experience the complete package that BMW offers. The 2026 BMW X7 blends luxury, utility, and dynamic handling into a single SUV that does not compromise. Whether hauling the family across Florida or enjoying a weekend escape on the Gulf Coast, the BMW X7 elevates every mile.

Visit BMW of Sarasota in Sarasota, FL, today to test drive the 2026 BMW X7 and explore financing options and incentives tailored to your needs. Discover why so many drivers are making the switch to BMW’s flagship SUV for its power, presence, and premium features. This is not just another luxury SUV—it’s the BMW X7.