2025
See Ford Explorer for saleFord Explorer
From SAR 238,625
Ford Explorer vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Which Should You Buy in KSA?
A complete comparison of the Ford Explorer VS Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.
2025
See Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class for saleMercedes-Benz GLE-Class
From SAR 466,157
Ford Explorer VS Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: the verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class ultimately takes the lead for buyers prioritizing luxury, exhilarating performance, and premium features, offering a more refined driving experience. However, the Ford Explorer stands out as the undisputed champion for families and budget-conscious buyers in KSA, providing excellent value and essential 7-seat capacity.
| #1 Ford Explorer#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 184,771 – 238,625 SAR | 466,157 – 836,000 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 2,300 – 3,000 cc · 4 – 6 cyl | 2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 300 – 400 hp | 367 – 585 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 420 – 563 Nm | 500 – 760 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 5.5 – 6.8 s | 4.2 – 5.8 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 180 – 237 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 7.8 – 11.7 L/100km | 7 – 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 – 93 L |
| Gears | 10 | 7 – 9 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m | 4.8 / 4.9 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.8 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 3.0 m | 2.9 / 3.0 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,970 – 2,132 kg | 2,220 – 2,270 kg |
| Trunk Capacity (liters) | 515 L | 630 – 690 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | SUV Crossover | SUV Crossover |
| Seating Capacity | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Features | ||
| Key features | 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 HeadlampsAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBody Colored GrilleBody KItBreakover AngleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCooled 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 BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeadroomHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHybridInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLumbar SupportManual 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 SeatsRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun Flat TiresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSide Impact BarSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSuperchargerTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsToolkitTorqueTorque SteerTowing 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 | 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 Families
The Ford Explorer is the clear winner for larger families, offering a standard 7-seat configuration that the 5-seater Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class cannot match. Its practical design caters perfectly to family needs.
2
Best for Luxury & Performance
For those seeking a premium driving experience with superior power and prestige, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the top choice. It boasts engines up to 585 hp and accelerates as fast as 4.2 seconds.
3
Best Value for Money
The Ford Explorer offers exceptional value, with a starting price significantly lower than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. It delivers substantial SUV capability without the premium price tag.
4
Best for Cargo & Longer Journeys
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides a larger trunk capacity, up to 690 L, and a bigger fuel tank up to 93 L, making it ideal for hauling more gear and extended trips.
Pros & cons
Ford Explorer
Pros
- Significantly lower starting price (from 184,771 SAR)
- Standard 7-seater capacity
- Excellent family-friendly dimensions
- Efficient 10-speed automatic transmission
Cons
- Less powerful engine options
- Slower acceleration compared to luxury rival
- Smaller trunk capacity
- Smaller fuel tank
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Pros
- Superior engine power (up to 585 hp)
- Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.2 seconds)
- Larger trunk capacity (up to 690 L)
- Larger fuel tank (up to 93 L)
- Premium brand image and luxury features
Cons
- Significantly higher purchase price (from 466,157 SAR)
- Only 5-seater configuration
- Higher kerb weight
- Fewer gears in some trims (7 vs Explorer's 10)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for families in KSA?
The Ford Explorer is definitively better for families in KSA due to its standard 7-seat capacity, which provides ample space for larger families. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is typically offered with a 5-seat configuration, making it less suitable for those needing to transport more passengers regularly. For practical family hauling, the Explorer is the superior choice.
Which SUV offers more luxury and performance, the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class undeniably offers more luxury and performance. With engine options reaching up to 585 hp and acceleration times as low as 4.2 seconds, it provides a much more exhilarating and premium driving experience than the Ford Explorer. Its higher price point reflects its superior refinement and advanced features.
What is the price difference between the Ford Explorer and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class in Saudi Arabia?
There is a substantial price difference, with the Ford Explorer starting from 184,771 SAR and the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class starting from 466,157 SAR. The GLE-Class is significantly more expensive, reflecting its position in the luxury SUV segment compared to the more mainstream and value-oriented Explorer.
Which has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class generally offers more cargo space, with a trunk capacity of up to 690 L, compared to the Ford Explorer's 515 L. This makes the GLE-Class a better option for those who frequently need to carry a large amount of luggage or gear, despite its smaller seating capacity.
