BMW X5 vs Ford Explorer: Which Should You Buy in Oman?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Ford Explorer⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Oman.

⁦BMW X5⁩ VS ⁦Ford Explorer⁩: the verdict

The BMW X5 is the clear winner for buyers prioritizing luxury, exhilarating performance, and superior driving dynamics, offering significantly higher power output and quicker acceleration. However, the Ford Explorer stands out as the more practical and family-oriented choice, providing a crucial third row of seating and a more accessible price point for budget-conscious shoppers.
Other Years
20262025202420232022
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at0 – 51,999 OMR19,750 – 21,500 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine2,998 – 4,400 cc · 6 – 8 cyl2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)340 – 530 hp285 – 400 hp
Torque (Nm)450 – 750 Nm353 – 563 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.3 – 5.5 s5.5 – 7.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)243 – 250 km/h180 – 237 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)8.8 – 10.5 L/100km7.8 – 11.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity83 L67 L
Gears810
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size—1.5 kWh
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 2.0 m × 1.7 m5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)—1,970 – 2,132 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)645 L515 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats7 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-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 LighterClimate ControlCollision 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 Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAir ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBody Colored GrilleBody KItBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersCVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)Daytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHybridInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrunk CapacityTurbochargerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheelbaseWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

The BMW X5 dominates with its powerful engines and superior acceleration, making it the top choice for those seeking a thrilling driving experience, with up to 530 hp.

2

Best for Large Families

The Ford Explorer offers a 7-seat configuration, making it ideal for larger families needing extra passenger capacity for daily commutes or long trips.

3

Best for Premium Comfort & Features

The BMW X5, with its higher price ceiling, generally offers more luxurious interior materials and advanced technology, appealing to those who desire a truly premium SUV experience.

4

Best for Value & Practicality

The Ford Explorer provides excellent value with its lower starting price of 19,750 OMR and standard 7-seat layout, making it a highly practical option for many Omani families.

Pros & cons

BMW X5

Pros

  • Significantly higher maximum horsepower (up to 530 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.3 seconds)
  • Larger fuel tank (83 L for extended range)
  • Superior trunk capacity (645 L)
  • More cylinders available (up to 8 cyl)

Cons

  • Higher entry price point
  • Only 5-seat capacity
  • Lower fuel efficiency at its worst (10.5 L/100km)
  • Fewer gears in transmission (8-speed)

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (from 19,750 OMR)
  • Standard 7-seat capacity
  • Potentially better fuel economy (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Modern 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Slightly taller and longer dimensions for passenger comfort

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower (up to 400 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (up to 7.1 seconds)
  • Smaller fuel tank (67 L)
  • Less trunk capacity (515 L)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SUV is better for families, the BMW X5 or the Ford Explorer?

For families requiring more passenger space, the Ford Explorer is the better choice as it comes standard with 7 seats, compared to the BMW X5's 5-seat configuration. Its slightly larger dimensions also contribute to a more accommodating cabin for a bigger family, making it a practical and spacious option.

Is the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer more powerful and faster?

The BMW X5 is significantly more powerful and faster than the Ford Explorer. With engines producing up to 530 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.3 seconds, the X5 offers a far more exhilarating performance experience compared to the Explorer's maximum of 400 hp and 5.5 seconds.

Which car offers better value for money in Oman, the BMW X5 or the Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer generally offers better value for money in Oman, with a starting price of 19,750 OMR compared to the BMW X5's higher entry point. While the X5 provides luxury and performance, the Explorer delivers a practical 7-seat SUV with a strong feature set at a more accessible price.

Does the BMW X5 or Ford Explorer have more cargo space?

The BMW X5 offers more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 645 liters, surpassing the Ford Explorer's 515 liters. This makes the X5 a better choice if you prioritize carrying more luggage or gear, even with its 5-seat layout.

How do the fuel economies of the BMW X5 and Ford Explorer compare?

The Ford Explorer can be more fuel-efficient at its best, achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km, while the BMW X5's best is 8.8 L/100km. However, the Explorer's range also goes up to 11.7 L/100km, indicating that the X5 might offer more consistent efficiency across its trims. For optimal efficiency, the Explorer's lower-end options are appealing.