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

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

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus LS⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series is the clear winner for drivers seeking a dynamic, fuel-efficient, and more affordable premium sedan with sporty handling. It delivers a thrilling experience for enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. However, for those prioritizing ultimate luxury, expansive space, and a supremely refined ride, the Lexus LS stands unmatched, albeit at a significantly higher price point.
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Price Comparison
Starting at245,000 – 315,000 AED367,000 – 475,000 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 – 2,998 cc · 4 – 6 cyl3,456 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 – 374 hp311 – 416 hp
Torque (Nm)300 – 500 Nm380 – 600 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.4 – 7.1 s4.9 – 6.3 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 – 250 km/h220 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 – 7.3 L/100km8.4 – 11.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L82 L
Gears810
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel DriveRear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m5.2 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 / 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 / 2.9 m3.1 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 – 1,670 kg2,100 – 2,350 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L430 – 480 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats4 / 5 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 SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCool boxCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDVDEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHDMIHead-Up DisplayHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNumber of SpeakersOdometerPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParallel Parking AssistParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRoad Sign AssistScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MassageSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSpeed LimiterSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series excels with its lighter kerb weight and quicker acceleration of 4.4 seconds, offering a more engaging and agile driving experience.

2

Best for Luxury & Comfort

The Lexus LS provides superior comfort and luxury, boasting a significantly larger cabin with its 5.2m length and more refined power delivery from its 416 hp engine.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For economical everyday driving, the BMW 3 Series is the top choice, offering an impressive fuel economy as low as 5.5 L/100km compared to the LS's 8.4 L/100km.

4

Best for Executive Presence

The Lexus LS commands attention with its larger dimensions and higher price tag, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a prestigious and imposing executive sedan.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (245,000 AED)
  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 4.4 seconds)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)
  • Available with All-Wheel Drive

Cons

  • Less powerful engine at the top end (374 hp vs 416 hp)
  • Smaller overall dimensions and less rear passenger space
  • Fewer gears (8-speed vs 10-speed)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (60 L)

Lexus LS

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (416 hp) and torque (600 Nm)
  • More refined 10-speed transmission
  • Significantly larger and more spacious cabin
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (82 L)
  • More commanding road presence

Cons

  • Considerably higher starting price (367,000 AED)
  • Lower fuel efficiency (8.4 L/100km)
  • Heavier kerb weight (2,100 kg)
  • Slower fastest 0-100 km/h (4.9 seconds vs 4.4 seconds)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Lexus LS better for performance in the UAE?

For pure agility and quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration, the BMW 3 Series takes the lead, reaching 100 km/h in as little as 4.4 seconds thanks to its lighter build. However, the Lexus LS offers higher peak horsepower (416 hp) and torque (600 Nm) from its larger 3.4L engine, providing a more powerful yet refined drive. Choose the 3 Series for a sportier feel, or the LS for more effortless luxury power.

Which car is more luxurious, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus LS?

The Lexus LS is undeniably the more luxurious vehicle, designed as a full-size luxury sedan. Its larger dimensions, including a 5.2m length and 3.1m wheelbase, translate to a more spacious and opulent cabin experience, often featuring premium materials and advanced comfort technologies. While the BMW 3 Series offers a premium feel, the LS operates in a higher luxury segment.

Which offers better value for money, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus LS?

The BMW 3 Series offers significantly better value for money with a starting price of 245,000 AED, compared to the Lexus LS's starting price of 367,000 AED. It provides a strong balance of performance, luxury, and efficiency at a more accessible premium price point, making it a smarter choice for budget-conscious buyers in the luxury segment.

What are the main differences in fuel efficiency between the BMW 3 Series and Lexus LS?

The BMW 3 Series is considerably more fuel-efficient, achieving as low as 5.5 L/100km. In contrast, the Lexus LS, with its larger engine and heavier build, has a fuel economy starting at 8.4 L/100km. If fuel consumption is a primary concern for your daily commute in the UAE, the BMW 3 Series is the clear winner.

Which is more spacious for passengers, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus LS?

The Lexus LS offers significantly more passenger space due to its larger overall dimensions, including a longer wheelbase of 3.1m compared to the 3 Series' 2.9m. As a full-size luxury sedan, the LS prioritizes rear passenger comfort and legroom, making it the superior choice for chauffeured rides or maximum passenger comfort on long journeys.