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

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

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

The BMW X5 offers superior value for its robust standard performance and spacious trunk, making it ideal for those seeking premium SUV quality without the highest price tag. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class appeals to buyers desiring ultimate power, greater customization, and the option of a highly fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, albeit at a higher cost.
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Price Comparison
Starting at27,450 – 33,950 KWD33,250 – 37,900 KWD
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 cc · 6 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)450 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 km/h245 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 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
Battery Range (km)—30 km
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)2,206 kg2,160 – 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 Socket360-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 LighterCollision 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 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 Value for Money

With a starting price of 27,450 KWD, the BMW X5 offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance at a more accessible entry point than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.

2

Ultimate Performance

For thrill-seekers, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class delivers with up to 585 hp and a blistering 4.2-second acceleration, surpassing the BMW X5's 340 hp and 5.5 seconds.

3

Fuel Efficiency

While the BMW X5 is efficient, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a hybrid option achieving an impressive 3.7 L/100km, making it the choice for eco-conscious drivers.

4

Consistent Cargo Space

The BMW X5 provides a generous and consistent 645 liters of trunk space, which is larger than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class's base 480 liters, ensuring ample room for families and luggage.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (27,450 KWD)
  • Generous and consistent trunk capacity (645 L)
  • Strong standard engine power (340 hp)
  • Good fuel economy for its class (8.8 L/100km)

Cons

  • Lacks a hybrid powertrain option
  • Lower maximum power output compared to GLE's top trims
  • Fewer engine and transmission variations
  • Slightly slower acceleration than the quickest GLE models

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower available (up to 585 hp)
  • Faster acceleration in top trims (4.2 seconds)
  • Offers a highly fuel-efficient hybrid option (3.7 L/100km)
  • Wider range of engine choices and configurations
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (690 L)

Cons

  • Higher starting price point (33,250 KWD)
  • Smaller base trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Less fuel-efficient in its high-performance petrol variants (11.8 L/100km)
  • Potentially more complex maintenance due to diverse options

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 27,450 KWD compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class's 33,250 KWD. For buyers prioritizing value without compromising on luxury and performance, the X5 offers a more budget-friendly entry point. Consider the X5 if initial cost is a primary concern.

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

For ultimate performance, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class takes the lead, especially in its higher trims which offer up to 585 hp and an acceleration of 4.2 seconds. While the BMW X5 provides a strong 340 hp and 5.5 seconds, the GLE-Class offers more exhilarating power options. Choose the GLE-Class if maximum power and speed are your priorities.

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

The BMW X5 offers a consistent and generous trunk capacity of 645 liters, which is larger than the GLE-Class's base 480 liters. However, the GLE-Class can extend its maximum trunk capacity to 690 liters in certain configurations. For reliable, ample space without reconfiguring, the X5 is often the better choice.

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a significant advantage in fuel efficiency if you opt for its hybrid powertrain, achieving an impressive 3.7 L/100km. The BMW X5's petrol engine has a respectable fuel economy of 8.8 L/100km, but it cannot match the hybrid GLE. For the best fuel economy, the hybrid GLE-Class is the clear winner.