BMW X5 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class narrowly takes the lead for buyers prioritizing a blend of superior peak performance, greater efficiency, and practicality. It offers slightly more power and cargo space. However, the BMW X5 remains a formidable contender, delivering a highly engaging driving experience and comparable luxury, making it a strong choice for brand loyalists and performance enthusiasts.
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Price Comparison
Starting at419,750 – 448,845 SAR466,157 – 836,000 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 – 8 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 530 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 750 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.3 – 5.5 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 – 250 km/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 – 11.6 L/100km7 – 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L85 – 93 L
Gears87 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m4.8 / 4.9 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 / 3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)—2,220 – 2,270 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L630 – 690 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 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 CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrake CalipersBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFrameless DoorsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizeriPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSkid PlatesSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class excels here with a higher peak horsepower of 585 hp and quicker acceleration of 4.2 seconds, offering a more potent driving experience for those who crave power.

2

Best for Long-Distance Travel

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is ideal for extended journeys. Its larger fuel tank, up to 93 liters, provides a better range between fill-ups, enhancing convenience on long trips across KSA.

3

Best for Cargo Capacity

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers more practicality for hauling gear. With up to 690 liters of trunk space, it provides slightly more room for luggage compared to the X5's 645 liters.

4

Best for Driving Dynamics & Prestige

The BMW X5 is the winner for those who prioritize a dynamic connection to the road and brand prestige. It's renowned for its sporty handling and iconic BMW driving feel.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Exceptional driving dynamics and handling
  • Rapid acceleration (4.3 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Robust 3.0m wheelbase for stability
  • Generous 645 L trunk space
  • Premium luxury cabin experience

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (530 hp)
  • Smaller maximum fuel tank (83 L) for extended range
  • Less maximum trunk capacity (645 L)
  • Base models less fuel-efficient (8.8 L/100km)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Superior peak power (up to 585 hp)
  • Faster top acceleration (4.2 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Better fuel efficiency in base models (7 L/100km)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank (93 L)
  • More versatile trunk capacity (up to 690 L)

Cons

  • Slower minimum acceleration (5.8 seconds) compared to X5 (5.5 seconds)
  • Some trims feature a 7-speed transmission, less refined than X5's standard 8-speed

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a slight edge in top-tier acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds, compared to the BMW X5's quickest at 4.3 seconds. For ultimate straight-line performance, the GLE-Class is marginally quicker, especially in its higher-powered variants.

Which SUV offers better fuel economy, X5 or GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class can be more fuel-efficient in its most economical configurations, achieving a consumption as low as 7 L/100km. The BMW X5 starts its range at 8.8 L/100km. For those prioritizing lower fuel consumption, certain GLE-Class trims offer a noticeable advantage.

Does the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class have more cargo space?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers more maximum trunk capacity, providing up to 690 liters, which is slightly more than the BMW X5's 645 liters. If cargo versatility and space are a top priority, the GLE-Class has a slight edge.

Which is better for long drives, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is generally better suited for long drives due to its larger fuel tank capacity, reaching up to 93 liters compared to the BMW X5's 83 liters. This allows for fewer stops at the petrol station, enhancing convenience on extended journeys.

Which SUV has more power, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers higher peak power, with certain variants producing up to 585 hp, surpassing the BMW X5's maximum of 530 hp. For drivers seeking the highest available horsepower, the GLE-Class is the more powerful option.