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 is the clear winner for driving enthusiasts in Kuwait, offering a more engaging and sporty experience with its rear-wheel-drive dynamics. However, the Lexus ES stands out for those prioritizing comfort, space, and a wider range of powertrain options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid, making it a strong contender for a luxurious daily driver.
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Price Comparison
Starting at15,499 KWD0 – 21,000 KWD
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl2,494 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp207 – 302 hp
Torque (Nm)300 Nm221 – 362 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.1 s6.8 – 9.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 km/h207 – 230 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)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
Battery Size—1.6 kWh
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m5.0 / 5.0 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 kg1,673 – 1,695 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 SunroofFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED TaillightsLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Window DefoggerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorWheel SizeWheels - Alloy
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 takes the win here with its rear-wheel-drive setup and quicker acceleration of 7.1 seconds, offering a more dynamic and sporty driving experience compared to the ES.

2

Best for Fuel Economy

The BMW 3 Series is the more fuel-efficient option for its petrol variant, consuming 5.5 L/100km, which is better than the Lexus ES's lowest figure of 6.4 L/100km for its hybrid variant.

3

Best for Interior Space and Comfort

The Lexus ES, with its longer length of 5.0m compared to the BMW 3 Series' 4.7m, generally offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin, especially for rear passengers on longer journeys.

4

Best for Performance Variety

The Lexus ES provides a broader range of engine options, from a 4-cylinder to a 6-cylinder, with power up to 302 hp and higher torque, giving buyers more choices for their desired performance level.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior fuel economy (5.5 L/100km)
  • More agile Rear Wheel Drive
  • Quicker acceleration (7.1s)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (184 hp vs ES's 302 hp)
  • No hybrid option available
  • Smaller overall dimensions, potentially less rear legroom
  • Lower maximum torque (300 Nm vs ES's 362 Nm)

Lexus ES

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 302 hp)
  • Available hybrid powertrain option
  • More spacious cabin (longer overall length)
  • Wider range of engine options and displacement (up to 3,456 cc)
  • Higher maximum torque (up to 362 Nm)

Cons

  • Higher fuel consumption for petrol variants (up to 8.7 L/100km)
  • Heavier kerb weight (1,673 kg minimum)
  • Generally slower acceleration for some trims (up to 9.8s)
  • Front Wheel Drive may offer less engaging handling

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The BMW 3 Series is generally better for performance driving enthusiasts. With its rear-wheel-drive configuration and quicker 0-100 km/h acceleration of 7.1 seconds, it offers a more dynamic and engaging experience. The Lexus ES, while offering higher maximum horsepower in some trims, is more focused on comfort and a smoother ride.

Which car, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES, offers better fuel efficiency?

The BMW 3 Series offers superior fuel efficiency with a consumption rate of 5.5 L/100km for its petrol engine. While the Lexus ES has a hybrid option, its most efficient variant still consumes 6.4 L/100km. For overall petrol economy, the 3 Series is the winner.

Which is more comfortable for passengers, the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES is typically more comfortable for passengers, especially in the rear. Its longer overall length of 5.0m compared to the BMW 3 Series' 4.7m translates to a more spacious cabin and a ride tuned for luxury. If passenger comfort is a top priority, the Lexus ES is the better choice.

Does the Lexus ES offer more engine options than the BMW 3 Series?

Yes, the Lexus ES offers a wider range of engine options, including 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder configurations, with power outputs spanning from 207 hp to 302 hp, and also includes a hybrid powertrain. The BMW 3 Series currently offers a single 184 hp petrol engine in its base model, providing less variety.