2024
See BMW X5 for saleBMW X5
From SAR 420,500
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.
2024
See Ford Explorer for saleFord Explorer
From SAR 196,900
BMW X5 VS Ford Explorer: the verdict
The Ford Explorer emerges as the practical champion for KSA families seeking a capable and spacious SUV, primarily due to its 7-seat capacity and significantly more accessible price point. However, for buyers prioritizing segment-leading luxury, exhilarating performance, and superior driving dynamics, the BMW X5 remains the undisputed choice, albeit at a premium.
| #1 BMW X5#1 | #2 Ford Explorer#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 408,375 – 688,390 SAR | 179,900 – 240,000 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 – 8 cyl | 2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 340 – 530 hp | 285 – 400 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 450 – 750 Nm | 353 – 563 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 4.3 – 5.5 s | 5.5 – 7.1 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 243 – 250 km/h | 180 – 237 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 8.8 – 11.6 L/100km | 7.8 – 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 67 L |
| Gears | 8 | 10 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Battery Size | — | 1.5 kWh |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m | 5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 3.0 m | 3.0 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 1,970 – 2,132 kg |
| Trunk Capacity (liters) | 645 L | 515 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | SUV Crossover | SUV Crossover |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Features | ||
| Key features | 12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-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 LighterClimate ControlCollision 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 Large Families
The Ford Explorer is the clear winner for families needing more space, offering 7-seat capacity compared to the BMW X5's 5 seats, making it ideal for larger groups.
2
Best for Performance & Driving Thrills
The BMW X5 dominates in performance with up to 530 hp and 4.3-second acceleration, making it the top pick for drivers who demand exhilarating power and dynamic handling.
3
Best Value for Money
With a starting price almost half that of the X5, the Ford Explorer offers exceptional value, providing a robust SUV experience without the luxury price tag.
4
Best for Premium Luxury & Features
For those who prioritize a lavish cabin, advanced technology, and a prestigious badge, the BMW X5 delivers a superior luxury experience unmatched by the Explorer.
Pros & cons
BMW X5
Pros
- Superior engine power (up to 530 hp)
- Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.3 seconds)
- Larger trunk capacity (645 L)
- Higher top speed (up to 250 km/h)
- Larger fuel tank (83 L)
Cons
- Higher purchase price range
- Limited to 5 seating capacity
- Lower fuel economy at higher trims (up to 11.6 L/100km)
- Less practical for large families
Ford Explorer
Pros
- 7-seater standard seating capacity
- Significantly more affordable starting price
- More gears (10-speed transmission)
- Potentially better base fuel economy (7.8 L/100km)
- Higher body for better ground clearance (1.8m height vs 1.7m)
Cons
- Lower maximum engine power (up to 400 hp)
- Slower acceleration (minimum 5.5 seconds)
- Smaller trunk capacity (515 L)
- Smaller fuel tank (67 L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer better for families in KSA?
The Ford Explorer is definitively better for families due to its standard 7-seat configuration, accommodating more passengers than the BMW X5's 5-seat layout. This, combined with its more accessible price, makes the Explorer a practical choice for KSA families.
Which SUV offers better performance: the BMW X5 or the Ford Explorer?
The BMW X5 offers significantly better performance, with engine options delivering up to 530 hp and an acceleration time as low as 4.3 seconds. The Ford Explorer's maximum 400 hp and 5.5-second acceleration put it behind the X5 in terms of raw power and speed.
What is the price difference between the BMW X5 and Ford Explorer in Saudi Arabia?
The Ford Explorer is considerably more affordable, with prices ranging from 179,900 – 240,000 SAR. In contrast, the BMW X5 is a premium offering, priced between 408,375 – 688,390 SAR, reflecting its luxury segment positioning.
Should I choose the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer for luxury and comfort?
For luxury and comfort, the BMW X5 is the superior choice. As a premium SUV, it offers higher-end materials, advanced technology, and a more refined driving experience compared to the more utilitarian and family-focused Ford Explorer.
