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 edges out the BMW X5 for buyers prioritizing ultimate luxury, higher peak performance, and potentially better fuel economy in its base trims, along with a larger fuel tank. However, the BMW X5 offers a more accessible starting price and a slightly wider stance, appealing to those seeking a sportier drive and strong value.
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Price Comparison
Starting at408,375 – 688,390 SAR450,900 – 861,863 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 Overall Performance & Luxury

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. It boasts higher peak horsepower (up to 585 hp) and torque, plus more advanced transmission options, making it the choice for a truly premium and powerful driving experience.

2

Best for Value & Sporty Handling

BMW X5. With a lower starting price of 408,375 SAR and BMW's renowned driving dynamics, the X5 delivers a compelling package for enthusiasts who appreciate a more engaging drive without the top-tier cost.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency & Range

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Its most efficient variant achieves a lower fuel consumption rate of 7 L/100km and a larger fuel tank capacity of up to 93L, offering greater range between fill-ups.

4

Best for Cargo Space & Practicality

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. While both offer ample space, the GLE-Class has a slightly larger maximum trunk capacity of 690 L, providing more flexibility for cargo.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (from 408,375 SAR)
  • Wider stance for perceived stability (2.0 m width)
  • Strong acceleration across trims (starts from 4.3s)
  • Signature BMW driving dynamics

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output compared to GLE (530 hp)
  • Smaller maximum fuel tank capacity (83 L)
  • Fewer transmission gears (8 speeds)
  • Higher fuel consumption at its least efficient (11.6 L/100km)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Higher peak horsepower (up to 585 hp)
  • Higher peak torque (up to 760 Nm)
  • More fuel-efficient base model (7 L/100km)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank (up to 93 L)
  • More transmission gears (up to 9 speeds)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (from 450,900 SAR)
  • Slightly narrower body (1.9 m width)
  • Slower base acceleration (5.8s)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for performance in KSA?

For peak performance, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class takes the lead, offering up to 585 hp and 760 Nm of torque compared to the BMW X5's 530 hp and 750 Nm. While both offer impressive acceleration, the GLE's higher top-end power gives it an edge for those seeking maximum output. Consider the GLE-Class if ultimate power is your priority.

Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a more fuel-efficient option in its range, achieving as low as 7 L/100km, whereas the BMW X5's best is 8.8 L/100km. Additionally, the GLE-Class has a larger fuel tank capacity of up to 93 L, providing a longer range. For better fuel economy and fewer stops at the pump, the GLE-Class is the better choice.

Does the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offer better value for money?

The BMW X5 generally offers better value for money with a more accessible starting price of 408,375 SAR, compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class which starts at 450,900 SAR. While both are premium SUVs, the X5 allows buyers to enter the luxury SUV segment at a lower price point. If budget is a primary concern, the BMW X5 presents a more attractive entry.

Which has more cargo space, the BMW X5 or GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers slightly more maximum cargo space with a trunk capacity of up to 690 L, compared to the BMW X5's 645 L. This extra capacity in the GLE can be beneficial for families or those who frequently carry larger items. For maximum cargo versatility, the GLE-Class is the winner.

Which offers a sportier driving experience, BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The BMW X5 is generally renowned for its sportier driving dynamics and more engaging feel behind the wheel, a hallmark of the BMW brand. While the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers impressive power and refinement, the X5's wider stance and sharper handling often appeal more to drivers seeking a performance-oriented SUV experience. If a sporty drive is paramount, the BMW X5 is the better pick.