BMW X5 vs Ford Explorer: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Ford Explorer⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Ford Explorer⁩: the verdict

The BMW X5 emerges as the clear winner for buyers prioritizing luxury, exhilarating performance, and superior cargo capacity. Its powerful engine options and quicker acceleration provide a more dynamic driving experience. However, the Ford Explorer offers undeniable value and practicality, making it the better choice for large families or budget-conscious buyers needing seven seats.
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Price Comparison
Starting at416,415 – 447,465 SAR176,008 – 254,898 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 cyl2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 462 hp285 – 400 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 650 Nm353 – 563 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.7 – 5.5 s5.5 – 7.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 km/h180 – 237 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 – 11.6 L/100km7.8 – 11.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L67 L
Gears810
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,206 – 2,386 kg1,970 – 2,132 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L515 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats7 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCollision DetectionCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAir ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBody Colored GrilleBody KItBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersCVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)Daytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeadroomHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlHybridImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrunk CapacityTurbochargerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheelbaseWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

The BMW X5 takes the lead with its potent engines, offering up to 462 hp and an acceleration as quick as 4.7 seconds, ensuring an exhilarating drive.

2

Best for Large Families

The Ford Explorer is the undeniable choice for families, comfortably seating 7 passengers, whereas the BMW X5 is limited to 5 seats.

3

Best for Value-Conscious Buyers

With a starting price significantly lower than the X5, the Ford Explorer provides exceptional value, offering a spacious SUV experience without the premium price tag.

4

Best for Cargo Capacity

For those needing ample storage, the BMW X5 boasts a generous 645 liters of trunk capacity, surpassing the Ford Explorer's 515 liters.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Superior engine power (up to 462 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.7 seconds)
  • Larger trunk capacity (645 L)
  • Higher top speed (243 km/h)
  • Larger fuel tank (83 L)

Cons

  • Much higher starting price
  • Limited to 5-seat configuration
  • Lower number of transmission gears
  • Lower overall height (1.7 m)

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price
  • Higher seating capacity (7 passengers)
  • Potentially better entry-level fuel economy (7.8 L/100km)
  • More versatile engine options (4 or 6 cylinders)
  • More transmission gears (10-speed automatic)

Cons

  • Lower maximum engine power (up to 400 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (minimum 5.5 seconds)
  • Smaller trunk capacity (515 L)
  • Lower top speed (up to 237 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer better for families in KSA?

The Ford Explorer is generally better for families in KSA, primarily due to its standard 7-seat configuration, offering more passenger capacity than the 5-seat BMW X5. While the X5 provides more trunk space, the Explorer's ability to carry more people makes it a more practical choice for larger families. Consider the Explorer if passenger count is a priority.

Which SUV offers better performance, the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer?

The BMW X5 offers significantly better performance. It boasts higher maximum horsepower (up to 462 hp vs 400 hp), greater torque (up to 650 Nm vs 563 Nm), and much quicker acceleration (as fast as 4.7 seconds vs 5.5 seconds). For drivers prioritizing a thrilling and dynamic ride, the X5 is the superior choice.

How do the prices of the BMW X5 and Ford Explorer compare in KSA?

The Ford Explorer is considerably more affordable than the BMW X5 in KSA. The Explorer's price ranges from 176,008 – 254,898 SAR, while the BMW X5 starts at 416,415 SAR and goes up to 447,465 SAR. For budget-conscious buyers, the Explorer offers a much more accessible entry point into the SUV segment.

Which has more cargo space, the BMW X5 or the Ford Explorer?

The BMW X5 offers more cargo space, with a trunk capacity of 645 liters. In comparison, the Ford Explorer provides 515 liters of trunk space. If maximizing luggage or gear storage is a key factor for you, the BMW X5 holds a significant advantage.

Is the BMW X5 more fuel-efficient than the Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer can be more fuel-efficient at its entry level, achieving 7.8 L/100km compared to the BMW X5's 8.8 L/100km. However, both models have varying fuel economy figures across their trim levels. For potentially lower running costs on base models, the Explorer has an edge, but the X5 has a larger fuel tank for longer range.