BMW 3 Series vs Lexus ES: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series edges out the Lexus ES for drivers prioritizing a sporty experience, superior fuel efficiency, and a clear entry price. Its Rear Wheel Drive and lighter build offer engaging dynamics. However, the Lexus ES counters with a broader range of powerful engine options, potentially greater passenger comfort due to its larger dimensions, and a focus on refinement.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at290,000 SAR264,075 – 273,470 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl2,487 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp204 – 302 hp
Torque (Nm)300 Nm221 – 362 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.1 s6.8 – 9.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 km/h207 – 230 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 L/100km6.4 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 60 L
Gears88
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m5.0 / 5.0 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 kg1,600 – 1,650 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L454 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Damper ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear SpoilerRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSilver TrimSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTowing HookTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series is the clear winner for those who value driving dynamics, thanks to its Rear Wheel Drive setup and lighter kerb weight, offering a more engaging and agile ride.

2

Best for Fuel Economy

Opt for the BMW 3 Series if fuel efficiency is a top priority, as it boasts an impressive 5.5 L/100km, significantly more economical than the Lexus ES's range.

3

Best for Passenger Comfort

The Lexus ES provides a more comfortable experience for passengers, with its longer and wider body suggesting superior cabin space and a generally more refined, quieter ride.

4

Best for Powerful Engine Options

If you seek raw power and engine variety, the Lexus ES offers options up to 302 hp and a V6 engine, surpassing the single 184 hp 4-cylinder BMW 3 Series listed.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
  • Sportier Rear Wheel Drive handling
  • More generous trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg) for agility
  • Clear starting price available (260,000 SAR)

Cons

  • Limited engine choice (single 4-cylinder option listed)
  • Lower maximum horsepower (184 hp) compared to ES's top trims
  • Potentially less rear passenger space due to more compact dimensions
  • Can feel less luxurious than the comfort-focused ES

Lexus ES

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (up to 302 hp)
  • Broader range of engine options (4-cyl to V6)
  • Longer and wider for enhanced passenger comfort
  • Known for its refined and quiet ride
  • Optional faster acceleration in higher trims (6.8s)

Cons

  • Significantly less fuel-efficient across its range (6.4 – 8.7 L/100km)
  • Smaller trunk space (454 L)
  • Front Wheel Drive may appeal less to driving enthusiasts
  • Heavier overall weight (up to 1,650 kg)
  • Price information is currently unavailable, making budgeting difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more fuel-efficient, achieving 5.5 L/100km. In contrast, the Lexus ES consumes between 6.4 and 8.7 L/100km, making the BMW the better choice for those prioritizing lower fuel costs. For daily commuting and long drives, the BMW 3 Series will offer better economy.

Which car offers better performance and driving dynamics, BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

For pure driving dynamics and a sporty feel, the BMW 3 Series with its Rear Wheel Drive and lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg) offers a more engaging experience, accelerating to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds. While the Lexus ES has higher horsepower options up to 302 hp and can be quicker in top trims, the BMW is consistently lauded for its agile handling. Choose the BMW 3 Series for a driver-focused experience.

Is the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES better for passenger comfort and interior space?

The Lexus ES is generally considered superior for passenger comfort and interior space. Its longer (5.0m) and wider (1.9m) dimensions compared to the BMW 3 Series (4.7m length, 1.8m width) translate to more generous legroom and shoulder room for occupants. If passenger comfort is a priority, the Lexus ES is the preferred option.

Which car has more cargo space, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series offers more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 480 liters. The Lexus ES has a slightly smaller trunk, rated at 454 liters. For shoppers needing to maximize luggage or grocery space, the BMW 3 Series provides a bit more practicality.

Which car offers more engine power and variety, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES offers a greater range of engine options and significantly higher maximum power, with trims featuring up to a 302 hp V6 engine. The BMW 3 Series listed here comes with a single 184 hp 4-cylinder engine. If you prioritize diverse powerplants and higher performance ceilings, the Lexus ES is the clear choice.