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 BMW X5 emerges as the overall winner for buyers seeking a luxurious SUV with a strong balance of performance and value, thanks to its more accessible starting price. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the clear choice for enthusiasts prioritizing ultimate power, quicker acceleration, and advanced engineering, provided they are willing to pay a significant premium for its top-tier capabilities.
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Price Comparison
Starting at416,415 – 447,465 SAR540,079 – 581,983 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 462 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 650 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.7 – 5.5 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 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)2,206 – 2,386 kg2,220 – 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 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 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 Value for Luxury

With a starting price of 416,415 SAR, the BMW X5 delivers a premium SUV experience and strong performance without the higher cost of the GLE-Class, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious luxury buyers.

2

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

Offering up to 585 hp and an impressive 4.2-second acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides a more exhilarating driving experience, especially with its V8 engine option, for those who prioritize raw power.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency (Base Models)

Its most efficient trim achieves 7 L/100km, which is better than the BMW X5's best of 8.8 L/100km, making the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class a surprising choice for efficiency-conscious buyers at the entry level.

4

Best for Everyday Practicality

The BMW X5's consistent 645 L trunk capacity and balanced performance make it a highly practical and enjoyable choice for daily commutes and family trips, offering ample space and comfort.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price (416,415 SAR)
  • Strong performance from its 6-cylinder engine (up to 462 hp)
  • Generous 645 L trunk capacity
  • Renowned for balanced driving dynamics

Cons

  • Lower maximum power and torque compared to GLE
  • No V8 engine option available
  • Slightly slower top acceleration (4.7 seconds best)
  • Lower top speed (243 km/h)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Superior maximum power (585 hp) and torque (760 Nm)
  • Quicker top-end acceleration (4.2 seconds)
  • Offers an 8-cylinder engine option
  • More advanced 9-speed transmission option
  • Potentially better fuel efficiency in base trims (7 L/100km)

Cons

  • Substantially higher starting price (540,079 SAR)
  • Higher fuel consumption in its most powerful trims (11.8 L/100km)
  • Minimum trunk capacity is slightly less (630 L vs X5's 645 L)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The BMW X5 is significantly more affordable, with a starting price of 416,415 SAR compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class which starts at 540,079 SAR. If budget is a primary concern, the X5 offers premium features and performance at a more accessible price point.

Which SUV offers better performance, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers superior maximum performance, with up to 585 hp and 760 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds. While the BMW X5 is powerful with up to 462 hp, the GLE-Class edges it out for ultimate speed and acceleration, especially with its available 8-cylinder engine.

Is the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for fuel efficiency?

Surprisingly, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class can be more fuel-efficient in its most economical trim, achieving 7 L/100km compared to the BMW X5's best of 8.8 L/100km. However, the GLE's higher-performance trims can consume more fuel, reaching 11.8 L/100km, slightly more than the X5's max of 11.6 L/100km. Choose based on the specific trim level.

Which has a larger trunk, BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The BMW X5 offers a consistent trunk capacity of 645 L across its trims. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a variable trunk capacity ranging from 630 L to 690 L. While the GLE can offer a larger maximum capacity, the X5's standard space is generous and consistent.

What are the key differences between the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The primary differences lie in price, performance, and engine options. The BMW X5 is more affordable, offering strong 6-cylinder performance. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class commands a higher price but delivers superior maximum power, quicker acceleration, and an available 8-cylinder engine, appealing to those seeking top-tier performance and prestige.