Looking for the cheapest cars in the UAE?
Although many people know Dubai for luxury cars, like Lamborghini and Ferrari, there is also a huge number of first-time buyers who search for budget-friendly cars.
Of course, you must choose a car that’s reliable, durable, and stylish while being cost-effective. Fortunately, Dubai’s car market offers many options from a daily commuter to a city-friendly hatchback under these conditions.
In this blog post, we’ll review the top 10 cost-effective cars that combine performance, essential features, and affordability for new drivers in Dubai.
1. Suzuki Celerio
- New Car Price: AED 37,000
- Used Car Price Range: AED 15,000 – AED 30,000
Suzuki Celerio Overview
The Suzuki Celerio is a small and affordable Japanese hatchback that’s starting to make a scene in Dubai. Suzuki Motor Corporation is known for making reliable, inexpensive small cars, and this is one of its top offerings.
It has a powerful 1.0-liter engine and achieves a fuel economy of approximately 20 km/L. Since the UAE is an oil country but a fuel-efficient country, the Suzuki Celerio makes perfect sense for the country.
That aside, it has good-ish internals and a nice outside design. At first glance, the cabin competently conveys the look of basic transportation, but it’s also unexpectedly roomy for a car of this class.
It’s comfy for everyday commuting, particularly with the rear seatbacks folded down to add to the cargo space. You can purchase a new Suzuki Celerio at AED 37,000, which is really remarkable for a car with these features.
More importantly, you can find a used Suzuki Celerio in Dubai at much lower prices, depending on the mileage and maintenance history.
Features of Suzuki Celerio
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L 3-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 4-speed auto |
| Fuel Efficiency | 20 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS, EBD |
| Infotainment | Basic radio + Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 254 liters |
2. Chevrolet Spark
- New Car Price: AED 38,000
- Used Car Price Range: AED 18,000 – AED 33,000
Chevrolet Spark Overview
For those who love compact city cars in Dubai, the Chevrolet Spark offers a delightful blend of agility and elegance. It is a perfect match for places that thrive on fast-paced life like Dubai.
Chevrolet, one of the supreme American automobile brands under General Motors, has manufactured this car.
Best suited for modern families packed with work, the Spark is indeed a combination of practicality along with contemporary design at a great feature-packed price.
Despite its small frame, it houses a powerful 1.2-liter engine that is commendable when it comes to fuel efficiency. It enables 17-18 kilometers of travel per liter in Dubai without compromising power, speed, or comfort.
Along with Bluetooth, keyless entry, and infotainment, the Spark is offered in different trims with additional tech amenities.
The Chevy Spark is the most economical option for drivers, students, or small families considering fuel economy and parallel parking slots.
Where else can you get these features for AED 38,000? Platforms like Shozon and Used Cars in Dubai even list the offer as low as AED 20,000 for a secondhand Spark.
Chevrolet Spark Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17-18 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 4-5 |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS, stability control |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay |
| Boot Space | 170 liters |
3. Kia Picanto
- New Car Price: AED 43,000
- Used Car Price Range: AED 22,000 – AED 38,000
Kia Picanto Overview
The Kia Picanto is another small car in the UAE’s car market. It’s easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and doesn’t cost a lot to maintain, making it a great option for first-time buyers.
Kia is a trusted car brand from South Korea that’s known for building reliable cars with good features at affordable prices.
The Picanto has a 1.2-liter engine that’s perfect for performance and efficiency. It can go about 18 kilometers on just one liter of petrol. So, apart from the initial costs, you can count on low running costs.
It has modern interior design and a well-made exterior. The car is also equipped with lots of features like a touchscreen, phone connectivity, airbags, electronic stability control, and other safety tools.
Kia Picanto Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 255 liters |
4. Hyundai Grand i10
- New Car Price: AED 41,850
- Used Car Price Range: AED 20,000 – AED 36,000
Hyundai Grand i10 Overview
The Hyundai Grand i10 comes in fourth in our budget-friendly cars list in Dubai. The car is compact but still very stylish and comfortable to drive.
Hyundai is renowned for its efficent and powerful vehicles along with a strong service network in Dubai. All the company’s models are well-known for their South Korean touch of efficiency. This model performs well in the city, as well as on the highways of UAE due to the 1.2 liter petrol engine.
The Grand i10 is ideal for city dwellers in families since it offers more than expected space for a compact car. The exterior design is also modern and stylish which is a plus for budget-friendly vehicles.
Moreover, the car comes with modern features that make driving easier such as touchscreen music and navigation systems, steering wheel controls, and rear parking sensors.
Hyundai Grand i10 Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 4-speed auto |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18-19 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS, EBD |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 256 liters |
5. Mitsubishi Attrage
- New Car Price: AED 36,900
- Used Car Price Range: AED 17,000 – AED 32,000
Mitsubishi Attrage Overview
Mitsubishi Motors is one of the most trusted Japanese car brands due to its dependable and tough vehicles. Its affordability with models like the Mitsubishi Attrage is what makes it a favorite in the UAE.
The UAE market is full of people seeking easy-to-maintain and fuel-efficient vehicles, making the Attrage a popular choice. The car is excellent for everyday driving in Dubai or Sharjah.
Fuel economy is one of its largest advantages, being superior to the competition with up to 22 kilometers per liter. This is only made possible through the use of an all-new 1.2-liter power plant and the car’s lightweight construction.
The Attrage may look compact externally, but the inside is actually spacious enough to have comfortable seating and has an ample boot space for your luggage, bags, or groceries.
You may also look for key safety features such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and airbags when purchasing this affordable car in the UAE.
Mitsubishi Attrage Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 22 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS, stability control |
| Infotainment | Basic audio + Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 450 liters |
6. MG 5
- New Car Price: AED 47,874
- Used Car Price Range: AED 30,000 – AED 45,000
MG 5 Overview
It is a mixture of China and Britain. The MG 5 is made by MG (Morris Garages), a historic British car brand that’s now backed by SAIC Motor. This is one of China’s largest automakers.
The MG 5 is a good-looking and budget-friendly subcompact sedan that has been enjoying its share of the spotlight in no time in the UAE. It provides modern designs, tech features, and competitive prices, and that’s why so many people are buying it.
This vehicle is powered by a 1.5-liter engine which makes for a comfortable drive and is also very fuel efficient–estimated 15-16 km per liter.
Its exterior is also chiseled and contemporary, in the manner of luxury autos, and interior amenities include leather seats and a big touch-screen infotainment system.
Inside, the MG 5 has ample room, especially in the back seats. So, your family will feel comfortable driving even on long trips.
MG 5 Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 15-16 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
| Infotainment | 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay |
| Boot Space | 448 liters |
7. Nissan Sunny
- New Car Price: AED 61,500
- Used Car Price Range: AED 35,000 – AED 55,000
Nissan Sunny Overview
Nissan is one of the most popular brands in the UAE. This Japanese car manufacturer offers many options in the country, including the Nissan Sunny.
It’s a reliable, fuel-efficient, and spacious sedan in the UAE. In the UAE, it’s common to see the Sunny on the roads because it’s trusted by families, professionals, and even taxi services.
It has a 1.5-liter engine that gives you smooth and steady performance. The ride is also comfortable, and the car is easy to handle both in city traffic or out on the highway.
One of Sunny’s best features is its interior space. It has a roomy cabin suitable for families with enough legroom for both front and back passengers.
The Sunny comes with airbags, ABS (anti-lock braking system), and stability control. Nissan has a strong service network across the UAE that brings peace of mind in terms of the maintenance cost.
Nissan Sunny Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 490 liters |
8. Suzuki Swift
- New Car Price: AED 52,700
- Used Car Price Range: AED 28,000 – AED 48,000
Suzuki Swift Overview
The Suzuki Swift is a nifty little hatchback and perfect for buzzing around city streets like beautiful Dubai. Suzuki is one of the familiar car manufacturers from Japan with the reputation of manufacturing small, reliable, and affordable cars, and this one is no exception.
The Swift is a particular favourite of young drivers and small families in need of a sporty, inexpensive car. It has a powerful and economical 1.2 engine and gives you 17-18 KM/ liter.
It may be compact, but there’s still enough room for a small family in the Swift. The design of the interior is contemporary, and there are plenty of technological additions, including a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity. It also comes with a nice set of safety features, including airbags and ABS, so you can feel more secure when on the road.
Suzuki Swift Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17-18 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay |
| Boot Space | 265 liters |
9. Renault Symbol
- New Car Price: AED 39,000
- Used Car Price Range: AED 18,000 – AED 35,000
Renault Symbol Overview
The Renault Symbol is another budget-friendly sedan that’s built for everyday comfort and practicality. Renault is a well-known car brand from France with a strong presence in the UAE, and this is one of the most popular options they offer in the country.
The Symbol has a powerful 1.6-liter engine with an efficiency of 15 kilometers per liter. Also, the car is simple but roomy with enough space for passengers to sit comfortably.
It’s perfect for people who want something affordable and reliable without all the extras. In the UAE, the Renault Symbol is a good choice for budget-conscious drivers and small families..
Renault Symbol Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 15 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | Dual airbags, ABS |
| Infotainment | Basic radio + Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 506 liters |
10. Changan Alsvin
- New Car Price: AED 43,900
- Used Car Price Range: AED 22,000 – AED 40,000
Changan Alsvin Overview
The last item on our list of budget-friendly cars in Dubai is a Chinese one. The Changan Alsvin is an affordable sedan that stands out with its modern look and well-designed interior.
The Alsvin has a 1.5-liter engine that gives you good everyday performance along with fuel efficiency of around 17 kilometers per liter.
Also, the interior design is much better than this price. It has many advanced features, like a large infotainment screen. In the higher trims, you get extras like leather seats and extra tech features.
In the UAE, the Changan Alsvin is a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers like young couples.
Changan Alsvin Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC |
| Infotainment | 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth |
| Boot Space | 430 liters |
Conclusion: What’s the Best Affordable Car in The UAE?
Now it’s time to decide and choose an option among these budget-friendly cars. First, take a look at the following table to compare these cars in terms of price and features:
| Car Model | New Price (AED) | Used Price Range (AED) | Engine | Fuel Efficiency (km/l) | Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Celerio | 37,000 | 15,000 – 30,000 | 1.0L | 20 | 5 |
| Chevrolet Spark | 38,000 | 18,000 – 33,000 | 1.2L | 17-18 | 4-5 |
| Kia Picanto | 43,000 | 22,000 – 38,000 | 1.2L | 18 | 5 |
| Hyundai Grand i10 | 41,850 | 20,000 – 36,000 | 1.2L | 18-19 | 5 |
| Mitsubishi Attrage | 36,900 | 17,000 – 32,000 | 1.2L | 22 | 5 |
| MG 5 | 47,874 | 30,000 – 45,000 | 1.5L | 15-16 | 5 |
| Nissan Sunny | 61,500 | 35,000 – 55,000 | 1.5L | 17 | 5 |
| Suzuki Swift | 52,700 | 28,000 – 48,000 | 1.2L | 17-18 | 5 |
| Renault Symbol | 39,000 | 18,000 – 35,000 | 1.6L | 15 | 5 |
| Changan Alsvin | 43,900 | 22,000 – 40,000 | 1.5L | 17 | 5 |
Overall, we can suggest the cars based on the following situations:
- First-Time Drivers / Students: Suzuki Celerio, Chevrolet Spark, and Kia Picanto
- Small Families: Hyundai Grand i10, Renault Symbol, and Changan Alsvin
- Long Commutes / Highway Use: Mitsubishi Attrage and Nissan Sunny
- Ride-Hailing / Fleet Use: Renault Symbol and Nissan Sunny
- Style & Features on a Budget: MG 5 and Suzuki Swift
FAQs
The Suzuki Celerio is one of the cheapest cars in Dubai. You can get a new model at AED 37,000 and a used one between AED 15,000 – 30,000.
There are several options. You can start your search with the Suzuki Celerio, the Chevrolet Spark, and the Kia Picanto.
In Dubai, there are lots of cars suitable for first-time buyers. Nissan Sunny and Suzuki Celerio are two popular options.
