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 ultimately wins for buyers prioritizing top-tier performance and advanced efficiency, especially with its potent hybrid options, despite its higher starting price. However, the BMW X5 remains an excellent choice for those seeking a premium SUV with a more accessible entry point and consistent practicality, offering strong value for money.
Other Years
20262025202420232022
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at39,990 BHD45,600 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 Value Seekers

The BMW X5 is the clear winner for those conscious of their initial investment, offering a luxurious experience at a more attractive starting price of 39,990 BHD.

2

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

For drivers craving maximum power and acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class takes the lead with its top-tier engine delivering up to 585 hp and a blistering 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the superior choice for fuel economy, particularly its hybrid variant which boasts an impressive consumption rate as low as 3.7 L/100km.

4

Best for Consistent Cargo Space

The BMW X5 offers a reliable and generous 645 liters of trunk capacity across its range, providing consistent space for families and adventurers alike.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Lower starting price (39,990 BHD)
  • Consistent 645L trunk capacity
  • Strong standard petrol engine performance
  • Slightly larger fuel tank (83 L)

Cons

  • No hybrid option available
  • Lower maximum power output
  • Slightly slower acceleration
  • Higher minimum fuel consumption (8.8 L/100km)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (585 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (4.2 seconds)
  • Available hybrid powertrain for superior fuel economy (3.7 L/100km)
  • Option for 8-cylinder engine
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (690 L)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (45,600 BHD)
  • Lower minimum trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Potentially higher fuel consumption in non-hybrid trims (up to 11.8 L/100km)
  • No fixed trunk capacity across all trims

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The BMW X5 starts at 39,990 BHD, making it the more affordable option compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, which begins at 45,600 BHD. If budget is a primary concern, the X5 offers a premium SUV experience at a lower entry price point.

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers superior performance, with its top-tier engine producing up to 585 hp and achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds. While the BMW X5 is powerful with up to 462 hp, the GLE-Class edges it out for those seeking maximum acceleration and horsepower.

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is more fuel-efficient, especially with its available hybrid powertrain, which can achieve an impressive 3.7 L/100km. The BMW X5's fuel economy starts at 8.8 L/100km, making the GLE-Class the clear winner for those prioritizing lower fuel consumption.

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

The BMW X5 offers a consistent 645 liters of trunk capacity across its range. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a variable trunk capacity from 480 to 690 liters. For consistent and ample space, the X5 is reliable, but the GLE-Class can offer slightly more at its maximum.