X5 E53 vs M-Class / GLE W163 (ML): which is better?
BMW X5 E53 (1999–2006) vs Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) (1997–2005): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
BMW X5 E53Specifications
| BMW X5 E53 | Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1999–2006 | 1997–2005 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.0 (3.0i) | 3.2 V6 (ML320) |
| Power, up to | 231 hp | 218 hp |
| Torque, up to | 300 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 667 mm | 4 587 mm |
| Width | 1 872 mm | 1 833 mm |
| Height | 1 707 mm | 1 822 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 820 mm | 2 820 mm |
| Fuel tank | 93 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 42 425 ₸ | ≈ 66 275 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BMW X5 E53
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 93 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine BMW M52/M54 (2.0–3.0): oil consumption (rings)
Engine (BMW M52/M54 (2.0–3.0)): oil consumption (rings); crankcase ventilation system failure; cracked expansion tank and thermostat.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML)
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
- Age: the last cars were built in 2005, condition is everything
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Which one to choose
- X5 E53 — if you care more about: power, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) — if you care more about: torque.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: X5 E53 or M-Class / GLE W163 (ML)?
X5 E53: up to 231 hp, M-Class / GLE W163 (ML): up to 218 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: X5 E53 — about 42 425 ₸, M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) — about 66 275 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.