BMW 3 Series vs Lexus ES: Which Should You Buy in Kuwait?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Kuwait.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Lexus ES⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series narrowly wins for drivers prioritizing a sporty, engaging experience and superior fuel efficiency at a more accessible starting price. However, the Lexus ES stands out for those seeking higher maximum power, a more luxurious, comfort-focused ride, and the option of a hybrid powertrain.
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Price Comparison
Starting at13,999 – 15,499 KWD0 – 21,000 KWD
Engine & Power
Engine1,499 – 1,998 cc · 4 cyl2,494 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)136 – 184 hp207 – 302 hp
Torque (Nm)220 – 300 Nm221 – 362 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.1 – 9.1 s6.8 – 9.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)210 – 240 km/h207 – 230 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.4 – 5.5 L/100km6.4 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 60 L
Gears88
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m5.0 / 5.0 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 / 2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 – 1,500 kg—
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L454 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED TaillightsLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Window DefoggerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSingle Exhaust TipSpeed LimiterSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - Steel
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree 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 Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series is the top choice for enthusiasts. Its Rear Wheel Drive system and quicker top acceleration of 7.1 seconds deliver a more dynamic and connected driving feel.

2

Best for Fuel Economy

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more fuel-efficient, boasting an impressive 5.4 L/100km. This makes it the more economical option for daily commutes and long-term running costs.

3

Best for Raw Power and Engine Options

The Lexus ES takes the lead with its higher maximum power output of 302 hp and a wider range of larger engine options, including a V6 and an available hybrid powertrain for diverse preferences.

4

Best for Entry-Level Value

Starting at 13,999 KWD, the BMW 3 Series offers a compelling entry point into the premium sedan segment. It provides a strong balance of performance and efficiency for its price.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.4 L/100km)
  • Lower entry price point (13,999 KWD)
  • Engaging Rear Wheel Drive dynamics
  • Slightly larger trunk space (480 L)
  • Quicker acceleration in its top trims (7.1s)

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (184 hp) compared to ES
  • No hybrid powertrain option available
  • Limited to smaller engine displacements
  • Lacks the FWD stability some prefer

Lexus ES

Pros

  • Significantly higher maximum horsepower (302 hp)
  • Wider range of larger engine options, including V6
  • Available Hybrid powertrain for alternative efficiency
  • Front Wheel Drive for enhanced stability
  • Higher top speed in certain trims (230 km/h)

Cons

  • Higher fuel consumption (up to 8.7 L/100km)
  • Higher potential top-end price (21,000 KWD)
  • Slightly less trunk space (454 L)
  • Slower base acceleration (9.8s)
  • No Rear Wheel Drive option for sporty feel

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES better for performance driving?

The BMW 3 Series generally offers a more engaging performance driving experience, primarily due to its Rear Wheel Drive system and quicker acceleration of 7.1 seconds in its sportier trims. While the Lexus ES can achieve a faster 0-100 km/h in its top trims (6.8s) and has higher max horsepower, the 3 Series' RWD setup is preferred by enthusiasts. For a dynamic and sporty feel, the BMW 3 Series is the better choice.

Which car is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more fuel-efficient than the Lexus ES. It boasts an impressive fuel economy as low as 5.4 L/100km, making it ideal for those prioritizing lower running costs. The Lexus ES, while offering a hybrid option, starts its consumption at 6.4 L/100km for petrol models and can go up to 8.7 L/100km. If fuel economy is a top concern, the BMW 3 Series is the clear winner.

Which offers better value for money, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series offers better entry-level value, starting at 13,999 KWD, providing a premium sedan experience at a more accessible price point. The Lexus ES has a higher potential maximum price of 21,000 KWD. For shoppers seeking a premium sedan without breaking the bank, the BMW 3 Series presents a compelling package.

Which has more power, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES offers significantly more power, with its top trims reaching up to 302 hp from larger engine options, including a V6. The BMW 3 Series, while spirited, peaks at 184 hp. If raw power and stronger acceleration across a wider range of engines are your priority, the Lexus ES is the superior choice.

Which car has more trunk space, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The BMW 3 Series offers slightly more trunk space than the Lexus ES. With a capacity of 480 liters, the 3 Series provides a bit more room for luggage and cargo compared to the ES's 454 liters. For those who need maximum practicality for everyday items or travel, the BMW 3 Series has a minor edge.