BMW X5 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class emerges as the overall winner, offering superior value, more power, and better fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for most buyers in the UAE. While the BMW X5 boasts slightly quicker acceleration and a sportier feel, the significant price difference and the GLE-Class's practical advantages make it the more compelling option for those seeking a balanced luxury SUV.
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Price Comparison
Starting at399,400 AED275,000 AED
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 cc · 6 cyl2,996 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 hp367 hp
Torque (Nm)450 Nm500 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 s5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 km/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 L/100km7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L85 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,206 kg2,220 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L690 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Active HeadrestsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemOdometerPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVentilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldActive HeadrestsAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAttention 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 RestCentral LockingChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlImmobilizeriPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemOdometerOverhead Console Sunglass HolderParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRoof RailsRoof SpoilerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Voice Operated ControlWheel SizeWheels - Alloy

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the clear winner for value, starting at a significantly lower price point while offering competitive, and often superior, specifications.

2

Best for Overall Performance

With higher horsepower (367 hp) and torque (500 Nm), plus better fuel economy (7 L/100km), the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides a more potent and efficient overall performance package.

3

Best for Cargo Space

Families and those needing extra luggage capacity will find the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class more accommodating, thanks to its larger 690-liter trunk.

4

Best for Dynamic Acceleration

The BMW X5 edges out its competitor with a quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.5 seconds, appealing to drivers who prioritize a sportier sprint.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration (5.5s)
  • Slightly lighter kerb weight (2,206 kg)
  • Wider stance (2.0 m width)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (399,400 AED)
  • Lower horsepower and torque output
  • Less fuel-efficient (8.8 L/100km)
  • Smaller trunk space (645 L)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable price (275,000 AED)
  • Higher horsepower (367 hp) and torque (500 Nm)
  • Superior fuel economy (7 L/100km)
  • Larger trunk capacity (690 L)
  • 9-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Slightly slower 0-100 km/h acceleration (5.8s)
  • Slightly heavier kerb weight (2,220 kg)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more affordable, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is significantly more affordable, starting at 275,000 AED compared to the BMW X5's 399,400 AED. This substantial price difference makes the GLE-Class a better value proposition for budget-conscious luxury SUV buyers in the UAE.

Is the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for fuel economy?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is more fuel-efficient, consuming 7 L/100km, which is notably better than the BMW X5's 8.8 L/100km. For drivers prioritizing lower running costs and fewer stops at the pump, the GLE-Class is the superior choice.

Which SUV offers more power, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers more power, with its engine producing 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque, compared to the BMW X5's 340 hp and 450 Nm. If you're looking for stronger performance figures on paper, the GLE-Class has the edge.

Which has more trunk space, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides more trunk space, offering 690 liters compared to the BMW X5's 645 liters. For families or individuals who frequently carry large items or luggage, the GLE-Class offers greater practicality.