Ford Explorer vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Which Should You Buy in Oman?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Oman.

⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class wins for those seeking luxury, superior performance, and cutting-edge technology including hybrid options. However, the Ford Explorer is the clear choice for buyers prioritizing seating capacity and value, offering a spacious 7-seater configuration at a significantly lower price point.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at15,000 – 19,000 OMR26,915 – 48,485 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)300 – 400 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)420 – 563 Nm500 – 760 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 – 7.1 s4.2 – 5.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)180 – 237 km/h245 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)7.8 – 11.7 L/100km3.7 – 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity67 L80 – 93 L
Gears107 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Battery Size1.5 kWh1 – 8.8 kWh
Battery Range (km)—30 km
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m4.8 / 4.9 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 / 3.0 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,970 – 2,132 kg2,160 – 2,390 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)515 L480 – 690 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAUXBA (Brake Assist)Body Colored GrilleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight 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 RearRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh 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 TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemOdometerOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoad Sign AssistRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSkid PlatesSpeed LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTowing HookTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Larger Families

The Ford Explorer is ideal for larger families, offering a standard 7-seat capacity, making it more practical than the 5-seater Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.

2

Best for Performance and Luxury

For drivers who demand exhilarating performance and premium luxury, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the winner, boasting higher power outputs and faster acceleration.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class stands out for its available hybrid powertrain, offering impressive fuel economy as low as 3.7 L/100km and a 30 km electric range, which the Explorer lacks.

4

Best Value for Money

The Ford Explorer offers significantly better value with a starting price of 15,000 OMR, making it the more budget-friendly option compared to the premium GLE-Class.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (15,000 OMR)
  • Standard 7-seat capacity
  • Good standard power (300 hp)
  • Larger overall dimensions (length, width)
  • 10-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Slower acceleration compared to GLE-Class
  • No hybrid powertrain option
  • Lower maximum power output
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Superior engine power (up to 585 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as low as 4.2 seconds)
  • Available hybrid powertrain with electric range (30 km)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 93 L)
  • Higher maximum trunk capacity (690 L)

Cons

  • Significantly higher purchase price (starting from 26,915 OMR)
  • Only 5-seat capacity
  • Higher minimum fuel consumption for petrol variants
  • Heavier kerb weight

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class better for families in Oman?

The Ford Explorer is better for larger families due to its standard 7-seat capacity, compared to the GLE-Class's 5 seats. Additionally, the Explorer's more accessible price point makes it a practical choice for family budgets. If seating for more than five is a priority, the Explorer is the clear winner.

Which car offers better performance, the Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers significantly better performance. Its engine options deliver up to 585 hp and it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds, far surpassing the Explorer's maximum 400 hp and 5.5 seconds. For thrill-seekers and those who prioritize raw power, the GLE-Class is the superior choice.

What is the price difference between the Ford Explorer and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class in Oman?

There is a substantial price difference between the two models. The Ford Explorer starts at 15,000 OMR, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class begins at 26,915 OMR, with top trims reaching 48,485 OMR. The Explorer offers a much more budget-friendly entry point, making it a compelling option for value-conscious buyers.

Does the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offer a hybrid option, unlike the Ford Explorer?

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers hybrid powertrain options, providing a battery range of 30 km and impressive fuel economy as low as 3.7 L/100km. The Ford Explorer, in contrast, is only available with petrol engines and does not offer a hybrid variant. For those seeking enhanced fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness, the GLE-Class hybrid is the way to go.

Which SUV has more seating capacity, the Ford Explorer or the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Ford Explorer provides more seating capacity, offering a standard 7-seat configuration. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, on the other hand, is available only with a 5-seat capacity. For buyers needing to transport more passengers, the Ford Explorer is the practical choice.