Compare the2023 Mercedes G-ClassVS 2023 BMW X5 M

For enhanced safety, the front and rear seat shoulder belts of the Mercedes G-Class have pretensioners to tighten the seatbelts and eliminate dangerous slack in the event of a collision and force limiters to limit the pressure the belts will exert on the passengers. The BMW X5 M doesn’t offer pretensioners for its rear seat belts.

For enhanced safety, the front seat shoulder belts of the Mercedes G-Class are height-adjustable to accommodate a wide variety of driver and passenger heights. A better fit can prevent injuries and the increased comfort also encourages passengers to buckle up. The BMW X5 M doesn’t offer height-adjustable seat belts.

Both the G-Class and X5 M have rear cross-traffic warning, but the G-Class has Active Brake Assist (automatically applies the brakes) to better prevent a collision when backing near traffic. The X5 M’s Cross Traffic Warning doesn’t automatically brake.

Both the G-Class and the X5 M have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front and rear side-impact airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, side-impact head airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes, all wheel drive, traction control, electronic stability systems to prevent skidding, crash mitigating brakes, daytime running lights, lane departure warning systems, blind spot warning systems, rearview cameras, rear cross-path warning and driver alert monitors.

There are over 9 percent more Mercedes dealers than there are BMW dealers, which makes it easier should you ever need service under the G-Class’ warranty.

The AMG G 63’s standard 4.0 turbo V8 produces 74 lbs.-ft. more torque (627 vs. 553) than the X5 M Competition’s standard 4.4 turbo V8.

An engine control system that can shut down some of the engine’s cylinders helps improve the G-Class’ fuel efficiency. The X5 M doesn’t offer a system that can shut down part of the engine.

The G-Class has 4.5 gallons more fuel capacity than the X5 M (26.4 vs. 21.9 gallons), for longer range between fill-ups.

A nine-speed automatic is standard on the Mercedes G-Class, for better acceleration and lower engine speed on the highway. Only an eight-speed automatic is available for the X5 M.

For better ride, handling and brake cooling the G-Class offers optional 22-inch wheels. The X5 M’s largest wheels are only 21-inches in the front and 22-inches in the rear.

The G-Class has a standard full size spare tire so a flat doesn’t interrupt your trip. A full size spare isn’t available on the X5 M; it requires you to depend on a temporary spare, which has mileage and speed limitations, or roadside assistance and a tow-truck.

For greater off-road capability the G-Class has a 1.2 inches greater minimum ground clearance than the X5 M (9.5 vs. 8.3 inches), allowing the G-Class to travel over rougher terrain without being stopped or damaged. The G-Class’ minimum ground clearance is 1.1 inches higher than on the X5 M Competition (9.5 vs. 8.4 inches).

The G 550 is 5.3 inches shorter than the X5 M, making the G-Class easier to handle, maneuver and park in tight spaces.

To almost totally eliminate engine vibration in the passenger area, the G-Class AMG has an electronically controlled liquid-filled front engine mount. A computer-controlled electric current in the liquid changes its viscosity, allowing the mount to dampen the engine completely at all RPMs. The X5 M uses conventional solid rubber engine mounts.

The G-Class has 1.1 inches more front headroom, 1.1 inches more rear headroom and 2.1 inches more rear legroom than the X5 M.

The G-Class has a much larger cargo volume than the X5 M with its rear seat up (38.1 vs. 33.9 cubic feet).

A low lift-over cargo hatch design makes loading and unloading the G-Class easier. The G-Class’ cargo hatch lift-over height is 29.3 inches, while the X5 M’s liftover is 30.8 inches.

The G-Class has a 7000 lbs. towing capacity. The X5 M has no towing capacity.

Standard Trailer Stability Assist on the G-Class uses the Electronic Stability Program sensors to detect trailer sway, then uses individual brakes to counteract any swaying and help keep the tow vehicle and trailer steady. The X5 M doesn’t offer electronic trailer sway control.

In poor weather, headlights can lose their effectiveness as grime builds up on their lenses. This can reduce visibility without the driver realizing. The G-Class has standard headlight washers to keep headlight output high. The X5 M doesn’t offer headlight washers.

To quickly and conveniently keep personal devices charged without cables tangling and wearing out, the Mercedes G-Class has a standard wireless phone charging system (Qi) in the center console. Wireless charging costs extra on the X5 M.

The G-Class has a 115-volt a/c outlet in the cargo area, allowing you to recharge a laptop or run small household appliances without special adapters that can break or get misplaced. The X5 M doesn’t offer a house-current electrical outlet.