2022
See Ford Explorer for saleFord Explorer
From SAR 172,673
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.
2022
See Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class for saleMercedes-Benz GLE-Class
From SAR 459,306
Ford Explorer VS Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: the verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class wins for luxury and performance, offering superior power and refinement. However, the Ford Explorer is the clear choice for families and value-conscious buyers, providing 7-seat capacity and a significantly more accessible price point without sacrificing capability. Your budget and passenger needs will dictate the ultimate winner.
| #1 Ford Explorer#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 172,673 – 212,923 SAR | 459,306 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 2,300 – 3,300 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 – 7.1 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 |
| Battery Size | 1.5 kWh | 1 kWh |
| 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 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 | 690 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | SUV Crossover | SUV Crossover |
| Seating Capacity | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Features | ||
| Key features | 12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAUXBA (Brake Assist)Body Colored GrilleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim | 12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh 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 TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemOdometerOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSkid PlatesSpeed LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - Alloy |
Which one should you buy?
1
Best for Value and Families
The Ford Explorer offers exceptional value with its lower price range (starting from 172,673 SAR) and standard 7-seat configuration, making it ideal for larger families on a budget.
2
Best for Luxury and Performance
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class delivers a premium experience with a more powerful engine (up to 585 hp) and quicker acceleration (as low as 4.2s), perfect for those seeking refinement and dynamic driving.
3
Best for Cargo Space
Despite its smaller seating capacity, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class boasts a larger trunk of 690 L, providing more room for luggage and gear compared to the Explorer's 515 L.
4
Best for Long Drives
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class features a larger fuel tank (up to 93 L), offering a greater range between fill-ups, which is beneficial for extended journeys compared to the Explorer's 67 L tank.
Pros & cons
Ford Explorer
Pros
- Significantly more affordable starting price (from 172,673 SAR)
- Standard 7-seat capacity for larger families
- Excellent fuel economy range (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
- Advanced 10-speed automatic transmission
Cons
- Less powerful engine options (max 400 hp)
- Slower acceleration performance (min 5.5s)
- Smaller trunk capacity (515 L)
- Fewer luxury amenities compared to premium rivals
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Pros
- Superior engine power (up to 585 hp)
- Faster acceleration (0-100 km/h in 4.2s)
- Larger trunk capacity (690 L)
- Premium brand prestige and luxury features
- Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 93 L)
Cons
- Significantly higher purchase price (from 459,306 SAR)
- Limited to 5-seat configuration
- Potentially higher maintenance and running costs
- Higher curb weight (up to 2,270 kg)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for families in KSA?
The Ford Explorer is generally better for families in KSA due to its standard 7-seat capacity and more accessible price point, starting from 172,673 SAR. While the GLE-Class is luxurious, it only offers 5 seats. For families needing more passenger room and value, the Explorer is the clear recommendation.
Which car offers better performance, the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers significantly better performance. Its engine options go up to 585 hp and it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds, outperforming the Explorer's top 400 hp and 5.5 seconds. If performance is a priority and budget allows, the GLE-Class is the superior choice.
What is the main difference in price between the Ford Explorer and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
There is a substantial price difference, with the Ford Explorer ranging from 172,673 – 212,923 SAR, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class starts at 459,306 SAR. The GLE-Class is positioned as a premium luxury SUV, commanding a much higher price than the more family-oriented and value-focused Explorer.
Which SUV has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class surprisingly offers more trunk capacity with 690 L, compared to the Ford Explorer's 515 L. Despite the Explorer's 7-seat configuration, if maximum cargo volume with fewer passengers is your priority, the GLE-Class holds an advantage.
