2026
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.
2026
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 clearly targets a premium segment, offering superior performance and luxury. However, for buyers prioritizing practicality, seven-seat capacity, and significant value, the Ford Explorer stands out as the undisputed champion. The Explorer delivers robust utility and space at a fraction of the GLE-Class's price, making it ideal for large families.
| #1 Ford Explorer#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 177,376 – 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 Luxury and Performance
With its powerful engines (up to 585 hp), faster acceleration (as low as 4.2s), and premium interior, the GLE-Class delivers a refined driving experience that the Explorer cannot match.
2
Best for Families and Value
The Ford Explorer offers seven seats and a significantly lower starting price, making it the more sensible choice for larger families needing space without breaking the bank.
3
Best for Cargo Capacity
Despite being a 5-seater, the GLE-Class boasts a larger trunk capacity of up to 690 L, providing ample room for luggage and gear compared to the Explorer's 515 L.
4
Best for Everyday Practicality
Combining its versatile 7-seat layout with a competitive fuel economy and a more accessible price point, the Explorer is built for daily family duties and long trips.
Pros & cons
Ford Explorer
Pros
- More affordable starting price (from 184,771 SAR)
- Standard 7-seat capacity
- Lighter kerb weight (from 1,970 kg)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Slightly larger overall dimensions for interior space
Cons
- Less powerful engine options (max 400 hp)
- Slower acceleration compared to GLE-Class
- Smaller trunk capacity (515 L)
- Smaller fuel tank capacity (67 L)
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Pros
- Superior engine power (up to 585 hp)
- Faster acceleration (as low as 4.2 seconds)
- Larger trunk capacity (up to 690 L)
- Larger fuel tank (up to 93 L)
- Premium luxury features and brand prestige
Cons
- Significantly higher price point (from 466,157 SAR)
- Only 5-seat capacity
- Heavier kerb weight (from 2,220 kg)
- Potentially higher maintenance costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for families in KSA?
The Ford Explorer is unequivocally better for families due to its standard 7-seat capacity, accommodating more passengers comfortably. While the GLE-Class is a luxurious SUV, it only offers 5 seats, making the Explorer the practical choice for larger families needing extra space.
Which SUV offers better performance, the Explorer or the GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers significantly better performance, with engine options delivering up to 585 hp and acceleration as quick as 4.2 seconds. The Ford Explorer, while capable, maxes out at 400 hp and has a slower acceleration time of 5.5 seconds at its best. For thrilling driving dynamics, the GLE-Class is the clear winner.
What is the price difference between the Ford Explorer and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class in KSA?
There's a substantial price difference, with the Ford Explorer starting from 184,771 SAR. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, being a premium luxury SUV, starts from a much higher 466,157 SAR. The Explorer offers considerable value for its segment, while the GLE-Class commands a premium for its luxury and performance.
Does the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class have more cargo space?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers more cargo space, with a trunk capacity of up to 690 L. In contrast, the Ford Explorer has a trunk capacity of 515 L. Despite the Explorer's 7-seat configuration, the GLE-Class provides superior luggage room when all seats are in use for its 5 occupants.
Which car is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Explorer or the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
Both models offer comparable fuel economy figures, with the Explorer ranging from 7.8 – 11.7 L/100km and the GLE-Class from 7 – 11.8 L/100km. The lowest-spec GLE-Class might be slightly more efficient at 7 L/100km, but overall, there isn't a significant advantage for either model across their respective ranges.
