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 Ford Explorer is the clear winner for families and budget-conscious buyers in Oman, offering exceptional value and 7-seat practicality. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class undeniably takes the lead for those prioritizing luxury, superior performance, and premium brand prestige.
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Price Comparison
Starting at19,750 – 21,500 OMR46,694 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl2,996 – 5,461 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)285 – 400 hp367 – 585 hp
Torque (Nm)353 – 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/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)7.8 – 11.7 L/100km7 – 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity67 L85 – 93 L
Gears107 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size1.5 kWh—
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 – 2,270 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)515 L690 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
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
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 RoofAutomatic 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 Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizeriPod 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 DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre 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 for Value & Families

The Ford Explorer is the top choice for Omani families needing generous space and a 7-seat configuration at a much more accessible price point, starting from 19,750 OMR.

2

Best for Performance & Luxury

For drivers who demand exhilarating performance and a premium driving experience, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class excels with up to 585 hp and faster acceleration, alongside its luxurious cabin.

3

Best for Long Journeys

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is ideal for extended road trips, boasting a larger fuel tank capacity of up to 93 L, ensuring fewer stops and a more refined ride.

4

Best for Cargo Capacity

Despite its 5-seat layout, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers a superior trunk capacity of 690 L, making it better for hauling luggage and gear.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price (from 19,750 OMR)
  • Standard 7-seat passenger capacity
  • Good fuel economy for a large SUV (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Responsive 10-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (up to 400 hp)
  • Slower acceleration figures (starts at 5.5 seconds)
  • Smaller trunk capacity (515 L)
  • Smaller fuel tank (67 L)

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Pros

  • Superior engine power (up to 585 hp)
  • Much faster acceleration (as quick as 4.2 seconds)
  • Larger trunk capacity (690 L)
  • Larger fuel tank for extended range (up to 93 L)
  • Premium brand luxury and advanced features

Cons

  • Significantly higher purchase price (starting at 46,694 OMR)
  • Limited to a 5-seat passenger configuration
  • Higher kerb weight (up to 2,270 kg)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Ford Explorer is generally better for families in Oman due to its standard 7-seat capacity and significantly lower starting price, making it a more practical and accessible option for larger families. The GLE-Class, while luxurious, only offers 5 seats. For budget-conscious families needing ample space, the Explorer is the recommended choice.

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

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers superior performance compared to the Ford Explorer. With engines producing up to 585 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.2 seconds, it outpaces the Explorer's maximum 400 hp and 5.5-second acceleration. For performance enthusiasts, the GLE-Class is the clear winner.

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

There's a substantial price difference between the two models in Oman. The Ford Explorer starts from 19,750 OMR, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a starting price of 46,694 OMR. This makes the Explorer a much more budget-friendly option, catering to different market segments.

Which SUV has more cargo space: Ford Explorer or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offers more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 690 L, compared to the Ford Explorer's 515 L. Despite the Explorer having more passenger seats, the GLE-Class provides a larger volume for luggage and gear, making it more suitable for those prioritizing cargo over passenger count.