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 wins for driving enthusiasts seeking a sportier, more agile sedan with superior fuel economy. The Lexus ES, however, offers a more comfortable, spacious, and luxurious experience, especially for those prioritizing passenger comfort and a broader range of engine options, making it a strong contender for value-conscious buyers.
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Price Comparison
Starting at222,200 SAR190,440 – 263,442 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
Battery Size—1.6 kWh
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 – 1,680 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L454 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree 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 GrilleClimate ControlCollision 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 Dynamics

The BMW 3 Series stands out with its Rear Wheel Drive and sporty tuning, providing a more engaging and precise driving experience for enthusiasts.

2

Best for Comfort and Space

The Lexus ES offers a more spacious and refined cabin, particularly for rear passengers, thanks to its longer body and focus on ride quality and luxury.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

Achieving an impressive 5.5 L/100km, the BMW 3 Series is the more economical choice for daily commutes and long journeys, saving on fuel costs.

4

Best for Entry-Level Luxury Value

With a lower starting price point of 190,440 SAR, the Lexus ES provides a luxurious package and powerful engine options for a competitive cost.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
  • Sportier Rear Wheel Drive handling
  • Higher top speed (240 km/h)
  • Larger trunk capacity (480 L)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (222,200 SAR)
  • Less powerful base engine compared to some ES trims
  • Smaller overall exterior dimensions, potentially less rear passenger space
  • No hybrid option (based on available specs)

Lexus ES

Pros

  • Lower starting price (190,440 SAR)
  • More powerful engine options (up to 302 hp)
  • Greater interior comfort and legroom due to longer body (5.0 m)
  • Broader range of engine and transmission choices

Cons

  • Less fuel-efficient (minimum 6.4 L/100km)
  • Front Wheel Drive may appeal less to driving enthusiasts
  • Slightly smaller trunk capacity (454 L)
  • Lower top speed in some trims (207 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES better for performance driving?

The BMW 3 Series, with its Rear Wheel Drive and higher top speed of 240 km/h, is generally better for performance driving enthusiasts who prioritize agile handling and a sporty feel. While the Lexus ES offers more horsepower in its top trims, the 3 Series' chassis dynamics are more geared towards an engaging driving experience. If you value precise steering and a dynamic ride, the BMW is the clear winner.

Which car offers better fuel economy, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series offers significantly better fuel economy, rated at 5.5 L/100km. In contrast, the Lexus ES models range from 6.4 to 8.7 L/100km. For drivers in KSA looking to minimize fuel costs, the BMW 3 Series is the more efficient choice for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

Which sedan is more comfortable for passengers, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES is generally more comfortable for passengers, especially in the rear, thanks to its longer body (5.0 m) which often translates to more interior space and legroom. The ES is designed with a greater emphasis on ride comfort and luxury, making it ideal for those who frequently carry passengers or prefer a smoother, more relaxed journey. For superior passenger comfort, the Lexus ES is recommended.

What is the price difference between the BMW 3 Series and Lexus ES in KSA?

The BMW 3 Series starts at 222,200 SAR, while the Lexus ES has a broader price range starting from 190,440 SAR and going up to 263,442 SAR for its higher trims. This means the Lexus ES offers a lower entry point into the luxury sedan segment, providing more flexibility for different budgets. If you're looking for a more affordable luxury option, the Lexus ES base model is a strong choice.