BMW 3 Series vs Lexus ES: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series is the clear winner for driving enthusiasts in the UAE, offering superior performance, sharper handling with RWD/AWD, and quicker acceleration (as low as 4.4s). However, the Lexus ES presents a compelling argument for buyers seeking greater comfort, a more accessible starting price, and the option of a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
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Price Comparison
Starting at259,000 – 360,000 AED216,000 – 265,000 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 – 2,998 cc · 4 – 6 cyl2,494 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 – 374 hp214 – 302 hp
Torque (Nm)300 – 500 Nm221 – 362 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.4 – 7.1 s6.8 – 8.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 – 250 km/h230 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 – 7.3 L/100km6.4 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 60 L
Gears88
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m5.0 / 5.0 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 / 2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 – 1,670 kg—
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L454 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering 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 Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVentilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Damper ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear SpoilerRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSilver TrimSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTowing HookTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Driving Dynamics

The BMW 3 Series excels with its powerful engine options, rapid acceleration (up to 374 hp and 4.4s to 100 km/h), and choice of Rear-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive, making it the top pick for an engaging driving experience.

2

Best for Value and Comfort

The Lexus ES offers a more comfortable ride, a lower entry price point starting from 216,000 AED, and a slightly longer wheelbase for enhanced passenger space, providing excellent value in the luxury sedan segment.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For those prioritizing economy, the Lexus ES is the winner, offering a hybrid powertrain option that significantly reduces fuel consumption compared to the petrol-only BMW 3 Series, making it ideal for daily commutes.

4

Best for Trunk Space

The BMW 3 Series provides a more generous 480 liters of trunk capacity, making it the better choice for individuals or small families who frequently carry luggage or need extra cargo room.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior acceleration (as low as 4.4s 0-100 km/h)
  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 374 hp)
  • More dynamic RWD/AWD drivetrain options
  • Larger trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Higher top speed (up to 250 km/h)

Cons

  • Higher starting price
  • No hybrid option for enhanced fuel economy
  • Slightly less rear passenger legroom due to shorter wheelbase
  • Less focus on plush ride comfort compared to ES

Lexus ES

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (from 216,000 AED)
  • Available with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain
  • Longer overall length and wheelbase for enhanced ride comfort
  • Known for exceptional reliability and smooth ride quality

Cons

  • Slower acceleration performance
  • Lower maximum horsepower and torque
  • Only Front-Wheel Drive available
  • Smaller trunk capacity (454 L)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series is significantly faster, with its top trim accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h. The Lexus ES's fastest variant takes 6.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h, making the 3 Series the clear choice for performance.

Is the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES better for fuel economy in the UAE?

The Lexus ES offers a better option for fuel economy, particularly with its available hybrid powertrain. While specific hybrid fuel figures aren't separately detailed, the ES's hybrid option inherently provides superior efficiency compared to the petrol-only BMW 3 Series, making it ideal for cost-conscious drivers.

Which sedan offers better comfort for long drives, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES generally offers a more comfortable ride for long drives, thanks to its slightly longer overall length (up to 5.0m) and wheelbase (2.9m) which contributes to a smoother suspension tuning. The BMW 3 Series, while comfortable, prioritizes a sportier, more engaging driving feel.

What are the price differences between the BMW 3 Series and Lexus ES in the UAE?

The Lexus ES has a more accessible starting price, ranging from 216,000 AED to 270,000 AED. The BMW 3 Series starts higher, priced from 245,000 AED to 315,000 AED, reflecting its premium performance positioning. Shoppers on a tighter budget might find the ES more appealing.

Which car, BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES, has more cargo space?

The BMW 3 Series offers more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 480 liters. In comparison, the Lexus ES provides 454 liters of trunk space. For those needing extra room for luggage or groceries, the BMW 3 Series is the more practical option.