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

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

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class edges out the BMW X5 for buyers prioritizing a broader range of performance and superior fuel efficiency, especially with its hybrid options. However, the BMW X5 remains a formidable choice for those who value its consistently sporty driving dynamics and a more uniform cargo capacity across its trims.
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Price Comparison
Starting at0 BHD45,600 – 49,420 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 462 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 650 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.7 – 5.5 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 km/h245 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 – 11.6 L/100km3.7 – 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L80 – 93 L
Gears87 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
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)—2,160 – 2,390 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L480 – 690 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 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 RoofAuto Start / StopAutomatic 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 BumperFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod 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 DifferentialTouchpadTowing HookTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre 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 Performance Seekers

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the winner here, offering higher maximum horsepower up to 585 hp and quicker top-tier acceleration of 4.2 seconds, making it ideal for those who crave ultimate power.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

Opt for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class if fuel economy is a priority, as its available hybrid powertrain can achieve an impressive 3.7 L/100km, significantly outperforming the BMW X5's petrol-only options.

3

Best for Consistent Cargo Space

The BMW X5 offers a reliable 645 liters of trunk capacity across its range, providing a consistent and ample space for luggage or groceries, which can be a key advantage over varying GLE-Class capacities.

4

Best for Dynamic Driving

The BMW X5 is the preferred choice for drivers who value a more engaging and sporty driving experience, known for its precise handling and responsive feel from its entry-level models with 4.7-second acceleration.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Consistent 645 L trunk capacity
  • Strong base acceleration of 4.7 seconds
  • Renowned for sporty handling and driver engagement

Cons

  • Lacks a hybrid powertrain option for enhanced efficiency
  • Lower maximum power compared to the GLE-Class's top trims
  • Less flexible engine range without 8-cylinder options

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output up to 585 hp
  • Superior fuel efficiency with hybrid options (as low as 3.7 L/100km)
  • Greater maximum torque up to 760 Nm
  • Faster top-tier acceleration of 4.2 seconds
  • Wider range of engine configurations including 8-cylinder options

Cons

  • Base models have slower acceleration than X5's entry-level
  • Standard trunk capacity can be significantly lower (480 L) than the X5's consistent offering
  • Can be less universally sporty in feel across all trims

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers higher maximum power, reaching up to 585 hp, compared to the BMW X5's maximum of 462 hp. For those seeking the most robust engine performance, the GLE-Class's top-tier variants provide a significant advantage in horsepower and torque. Therefore, the GLE-Class is the clear winner for sheer power.

Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the more fuel-efficient option, especially with its available hybrid powertrains that can achieve an impressive 3.7 L/100km. The BMW X5, relying solely on petrol engines, has a fuel economy range of 8.8 – 11.6 L/100km. For drivers prioritizing lower fuel consumption and environmental impact, the GLE-Class is the superior choice.

Is the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for cargo space?

The BMW X5 offers a consistent 645 liters of trunk capacity across its models, providing reliable storage. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a variable trunk capacity ranging from 480 to 690 liters, meaning some configurations might offer less space. For predictable and ample cargo room, the BMW X5 offers a more consistent advantage.

Which SUV is faster in acceleration, the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a quicker top-tier acceleration of 4.2 seconds, outperforming the BMW X5's fastest acceleration of 4.7 seconds. However, the BMW X5's base models are quicker off the line at 4.7 seconds compared to the GLE-Class's base acceleration of 5.8 seconds. For overall fastest sprints, the GLE-Class takes the lead in its highest performance trims.