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 BMW X5 edges out the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class for buyers seeking a more accessible entry into the luxury SUV segment without compromising on performance or practicality. While the GLE-Class offers slightly higher top-tier power and a broader range of engine choices for ultimate performance enthusiasts, the X5 delivers a compelling blend of value, sportiness, and usable cargo space for most luxury SUV shoppers.
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Price Comparison
Starting at427,000 – 450,000 AED489,900 – 781,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 – 8 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 530 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 750 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.3 – 5.5 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 – 250 km/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 – 10.5 L/100km7 – 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L85 – 93 L
Gears87 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m4.8 / 4.9 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 / 3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)—2,220 – 2,270 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L630 – 690 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlCollision DetectionCornering 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 CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrake CalipersBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFrameless DoorsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh 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 TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSkid PlatesSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value-Oriented Luxury

The BMW X5 is the clear winner here, with a starting price of 427,000 AED, making it significantly more affordable than the GLE-Class.

2

Best for Peak Performance

For those chasing maximum power and acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class takes the lead, offering up to 585 hp and a scorching 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.

3

Best for Standard Cargo Space

The BMW X5 offers a generous standard trunk capacity of 645 L, providing ample room for luggage and gear right from its base trims.

4

Best for Long Drives

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a larger maximum fuel tank capacity of 93 L, giving it an edge for extended journeys with fewer stops.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • More attractive starting price (427,000 AED)
  • Larger standard trunk capacity (645 L)
  • Strong base acceleration (5.5 seconds)
  • Refined 8-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower compared to GLE-Class
  • Smaller maximum fuel tank capacity (83 L)
  • Less powerful top engine option

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (585 hp)
  • Faster top-tier acceleration (4.2 seconds)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank capacity (93 L)
  • Wider range of engine displacements (up to 5,461 cc)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (489,900 AED)
  • Slower base acceleration (5.8 seconds)
  • Slightly smaller standard trunk capacity (630 L)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class more affordable?

The BMW X5 is more affordable, with a starting price of 427,000 AED. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class begins at 489,900 AED, making the X5 a better choice for budget-conscious luxury buyers.

Which SUV has better performance, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

For peak performance, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has the edge, offering up to 585 hp and an acceleration time of 4.2 seconds. The BMW X5's top-tier offers 530 hp and 4.3 seconds, still excellent but slightly less potent.

Which offers more cargo space, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The BMW X5 provides a larger standard trunk capacity of 645 L. While the GLE-Class can offer up to 690 L in some configurations, its base capacity is 630 L, making the X5 more practical for everyday cargo needs.

Which has a larger fuel tank, BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a larger maximum fuel tank capacity of 93 L, giving it an advantage for longer drives without needing to refuel as often. The BMW X5 has a standard 83 L fuel tank.

What are the engine differences between the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The BMW X5 features engines from 2,998 to 4,400 cc, with up to 530 hp. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class boasts a wider engine range, from 2,996 to 5,461 cc, and a higher maximum output of 585 hp, catering to a broader spectrum of performance demands.