BMW 5 Series vs Lexus ES: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩: the verdict

The Lexus ES wins for shoppers prioritizing value and diverse performance options, offering a lower starting price and powerful engine choices. However, the BMW 5 Series takes the lead for those who value superior fuel economy, more generous trunk space, and the engaging driving dynamics of a Rear-Wheel Drive sedan.
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Price Comparison
Starting at275,000 AED216,000 – 270,000 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl2,494 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp214 – 302 hp
Torque (Nm)290 Nm221 – 362 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.9 s6.8 – 8.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)235 km/h230 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.1 L/100km6.4 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity70 L50 – 60 L
Gears88
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.1 m × 1.5 m5.0 / 5.0 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,670 kg—
Trunk Capacity (liters)520 L454 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFrameless DoorsFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHeadlight WashersInternet ConnectivityKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones
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 Value Seekers

The Lexus ES is the top choice for buyers looking for premium features at a more accessible price point, with its starting price significantly lower than the BMW 5 Series.

2

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

Opt for the BMW 5 Series if you prioritize a dynamic driving experience, thanks to its Rear-Wheel Drive system, longer wheelbase, and higher top speed of 235 km/h.

3

Best for Performance

The Lexus ES, especially in its higher trims, delivers superior raw power with up to 302 hp and quicker acceleration of 6.8 seconds, making it ideal for spirited driving.

4

Best for Practicality & Efficiency

The BMW 5 Series stands out with its impressive fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km and a larger 520 L trunk, perfect for daily commutes and family trips.

Pros & cons

BMW 5 Series

Pros

  • Excellent fuel economy (6.1 L/100km)
  • Generous trunk capacity (520 L)
  • Engaging Rear-Wheel Drive dynamics
  • Higher top speed (235 km/h)
  • Longer wheelbase for enhanced stability

Cons

  • Higher entry price (275,000 AED)
  • Lower base engine power (184 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (7.9 s)
  • No hybrid powertrain option

Lexus ES

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (216,000 AED)
  • Powerful engine options (up to 302 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 6.8 s)
  • Available hybrid variants for efficiency
  • Broader range of engine sizes (4-6 cyl options)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (454 L)
  • Less fuel-efficient (up to 8.7 L/100km)
  • Front-Wheel Drive only (less sporty feel)
  • Slightly lower top speed (230 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 5 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 5 Series is generally more fuel-efficient, boasting 6.1 L/100km compared to the Lexus ES's range of 6.4 – 8.7 L/100km for its petrol variants. While the ES offers hybrid options, the standard 5 Series provides better efficiency across its petrol lineup. For consistent fuel savings, the BMW 5 Series is the better choice.

Is the BMW 5 Series or Lexus ES better for performance?

For outright performance and acceleration, the Lexus ES takes the lead, particularly with its higher trim levels offering up to 302 hp and an acceleration of 6.8 seconds. The BMW 5 Series offers a respectable 184 hp and 7.9 seconds, but the ES provides more powerful engine choices for those seeking a more exhilarating drive. If power is your priority, opt for a higher-spec Lexus ES.

Which car offers more cargo space, the BMW 5 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 5 Series offers significantly more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 520 liters. In contrast, the Lexus ES provides 454 liters of trunk space. For buyers who frequently need to carry luggage or larger items, the BMW 5 Series is the more practical option due to its larger boot. Choose the 5 Series for superior practicality.

Which car is more affordable, the BMW 5 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES is more affordable, with a starting price of 216,000 AED, compared to the BMW 5 Series which starts at 275,000 AED. The ES also offers a broader price range, allowing for more budget flexibility. If your budget is a primary concern, the Lexus ES provides a more accessible entry point into the luxury sedan segment.

What are the key driving differences between the BMW 5 Series and Lexus ES?

The BMW 5 Series features a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) setup, known for its sportier handling and more engaging driving feel. The Lexus ES, on the other hand, is primarily Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), which typically offers a more comfortable and stable ride with predictable handling. If you prioritize dynamic driving and a connected feel, the 5 Series is your car; for a smoother, more relaxed experience, the ES is ideal.