Top 10 SUVs to Buy in Dubai: Ultimate Guide for 2024

Importance of SUVs in Dubai

Dubai’s hot market for SUVs is driven by several key factors. The city’s expansive layout and well-maintained roads make SUVs ideal for both urban and desert driving.

The extreme heat necessitates vehicles with powerful air conditioning and spacious interiors, which SUVs provide. Additionally, luxury SUVs serve as status symbols, reflecting the city’s wealth and opulent lifestyle.

SUVs are also practical for families, offering ample space, advanced safety features, and comfort.

 Economic factors, such as lower fuel prices and no personal income tax, make owning SUVs more affordable. Moreover, car manufacturers and dealers continuously introduce new models and offer attractive financing options, keeping consumer interest high. These combined factors make SUVs highly popular in Dubai.

SUV Car Brands Available In Dubai

These brands offer a diverse range of SUVs, from compact and affordable models to high-end luxury and performance vehicles, meeting the varied demands of Dubai’s residents and visitors.

Here is a list of SUV car brands available in Dubai:

Luxury Brands

• Range Rover (Land Rover)
• Mercedes-Benz
• BMW
• Audi
• Lexus
• Porsche
• Bentley
• Maserati
• Rolls-Royce
• Cadillac
• Infiniti
• Jaguar

Mid-Range Brands

• Toyota
• Nissan
• Ford
• Chevrolet
• Honda
• Mazda
• Hyundai
• Kia
• Jeep
• GMC
• Mitsubishi
• Volkswagen
• Subaru
• Dodge

Affordable Brands

• Suzuki
• Renault
• Peugeot
• MG
• Geely
• Haval
• Chery

Electric Brands

• Tesla
• Rivian
• Polestar

High-Performance Brands

• Lamborghini
• Ferrari
• Aston Martin
• McLaren

Chinese Brands

• Changan
• GAC Motor
• BAIC
• Great Wall Motors

Top 10 SUVs To Buy In Dubai

Whether you’re an avid off-roading enthusiast or in search of a dependable, family-friendly SUV with automatic transmission, there’s a range of options available. This selection of popular SUVs in Dubai caters to a variety of preferences and requirements, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Toyota Land Cruiser

Topping the list of the top 10 best SUVs to buy in the UAE is a vehicle that provides a well-rounded experience: the Toyota Land Cruiser.

 This SUV excels at fulfilling all your needs, whether you’re driving in the desert, navigating city streets, traveling to another Emirate, journeying across the GCC, or even venturing to distant parts of the globe. The Land Cruiser is adept at handling it all.

Toyota Land Cruiser Performance

• Equipped with a powerful V8 engine that delivers strong horsepower and torque
• Features advanced four-wheel-drive systems, high ground clearance, and durable suspension designed to tackle challenging terrains such as sand dunes, rocky paths, and muddy trails. 
• Boasts impressive towing capacity, making it suitable for hauling heavy loads like trailers, boats, or other equipment.
• Includes advanced traction control systems like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, optimizing performance on various surfaces and ensuring stability and control.
• Smooth-shifting automatic transmission that complements the powerful engine, ensuring seamless power delivery and responsive driving.

Toyota Land Cruiser comfort

• Spacious Interior: Ample legroom and headroom for all passengers.
• Comfortable Seating: Adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats, with options for massaging seats.
• Smooth Ride: Advanced suspension system absorbs road imperfections.
• Quiet Cabin: Enhanced soundproofing reduces road noise and vibrations.
• Premium Materials: High-quality leather, soft-touch plastics, and wood or metal accents.
• Advanced Infotainment: Large touchscreens, high-quality audio, and connectivity options.
• Convenience Features: Keyless entry, push-button start, and ample storage.
• Ergonomic Design: Intuitive control placement for ease of use.
• Third-Row Seating: Comfortable space for larger families or groups.

Toyota Land Cruiser fuel efficiency

• Fuel Consumption: The Land Cruiser typically averages around 13-15 miles per gallon (mpg) in combined city and highway driving.

• Engine: It is powered by a robust V8 engine, which, while offering substantial power and towing capacity, consumes more fuel compared to smaller, more fuel-efficient engines.

• Driving Conditions: Fuel efficiency can vary based on driving conditions. Off-road and city driving generally results in lower fuel economy compared to highway driving.

• Comparative Efficiency: Compared to other large SUVs and off-road vehicles, the Land Cruiser’s fuel efficiency is on the lower end, reflecting its focus on performance and durability over fuel economy.

• Fuel Tank Capacity: It has a large fuel tank, which provides a decent driving range despite its lower fuel efficiency.

Toyota Land Cruiser suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Off-Road Performance: Ideal for desert driving and dune bashing.
• Durability: Designed to withstand harsh desert conditions.
• Cooling Efficiency: Advanced cooling system for high temperatures.
• Ground Clearance: High clearance for navigating sandy and rough terrain.
• Reliability: Renowned for dependable performance in extreme conditions.
• Comfort: Spacious and well-insulated cabin for added comfort in hot weather.

Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder faces strong competition from popular models like the Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse. This Japanese crossover is offered in six different versions.

Nissan Pathfinder Performance

• Engine: 3.6-liter V6 with 284 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
• Performance: Adequate power for its size; tows up to 6,000 pounds.
• Rock Creek Trim: Features a more powerful version of the standard V6.
• Transmission: Nine-speed automatic sometimes hesitates to downshift.
• Seating: Accommodates up to seven passengers.
• Safety Features: Includes a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot monitoring.
• Safety Rating: 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• Suitability: Reliable choice for UAE families seeking safety and performance.

Nissan Pathfinder Comfort

• Comfortable front seats.
• Well-placed controls.
• Three rows of seating for up to eight riders.
• Option to swap the second-row bench for captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to seven.
• Integrated storage cubbies throughout the cabin.
• Large bin below the center console, accessible by driver or front-seat passenger.
• Semi-aniline leather upholstery.
• Heated and ventilated front seats.
• Panoramic sunroof.

Nissan Pathfinder fuel efficiency

• Observed fuel economy: 22.2 mpg.
• Slightly lower than expected based on EPA estimates.
• Fuel Tank Capacity All Trims: 18.5 gallons
• Targeted Fuel Economy Estimates (2024): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
• Pathfinder is efficient for long drives across Dubai’s expansive highways.

Nissan suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Good insulation keeps the interior cool.
• Quality materials withstand heat and sun.
• Engine performs well in high temperatures.
• Durable construction for hot conditions.
• Effective climate control system.
• Ventilated seats in upper trims.
• AWD handles desert outings.
• Rugged build for rough terrains.
• Maneuverable for city traffic and parking.

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero performance

• Bold lines, robust front grille, powerful LED headlights.
• Elevated ground clearance and rugged accents for enhanced off-road capabilities.
• Advanced stability control, hill start assist, blind-spot warning, and multi-view camera system.
• Comprehensive suite of safety features for maximum protection.
• Responsive V6 gasoline engine or mighty diesel powertrain.
• Ample torque and impressive off-road capabilities.

Mitsubishi Pajero comfort

• Seating Capacity: Up to seven passengers with decent legroom and headroom.
• Interior Design: Generally, plasticky but practical; higher trims offer more leather and soft plastic.
• Boot Space: Adequate with flexible configurations; some loss of space with seven seats.
• Dimensions: Narrower cargo area compared to some competitors but still functional.
• Infotainment: Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Good range of accessories available; rear-mounted spare wheel accessible via the boot.

Mitsubishi Pajero fuel efficiency

• Fuel Tank Size: 88 liters (approx. 23.3 gallons)
• Fuel Consumption City: Approximately 10.0 liters per 100 km (around 24 mpg)
• Fuel Consumption Highway: Approximately 7.0 liters per 100 km (around 33.6 mpg)

Mitsubishi Pajero suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• High ground clearance and 4WD excel on rough terrain.
• Comfortable and spacious for city driving
• Effective air conditioning for extreme heat.
• Durable design handles sandy conditions well.

Chevrolet Tahoe

Chevrolet Tahoe performance

• robust acceleration and a smooth drive.
• Ideal for highway cruising and moderate towing.
• Automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning.
• The Tahoe accelerates quickly for its size, particularly with the 6.2L V8 engine.
• strong performance for merging highways and overtaking.
• 6.2L V8 Engine Power: 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.

Chevrolet Tahoe comfort

• Three rows of seats, with ample open space.
• Slide fore and aft for added flexibility; allows comfortable seating in the third row.
• Space for smartphones, beverages, wallets, and keys.
• Genuine wood trim, perforated leather upholstery, exclusive interior color schemes.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Wi-Fi Hotspot.
• Wireless Smartphone Charging Pad.
• two displays mounted behind front seats.

Chevrolet Tahoe fuel efficiency

• Engine: 5.3L V8
• Highway Fuel Consumption: 10.3 km/L (2WD model)
• City Fuel Consumption: 6.8-7.6 km/L, depending on driving conditions and model.
• fuel tank capacity of 31 gallons (117 liters)
• Tahoe’s fuel consumption may be higher compared to smaller SUVs

Chevrolet Tahoe suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Sturdy construction and elevated ground clearance make it well-suited for sandy deserts and rough terrains.
• A powerful V8 engine offers substantial power for both urban driving and off-road adventures.
• Efficient air conditioning systems are effective in managing extreme temperatures.
• Its large dimensions may impact maneuverability in confined city spaces and parking areas.

Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler performance

• 285-hp 3.6-liter V-6 engine, available with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission
• Paired with an electric motor for enhanced low-end power
• Inconsistent braking distances observed between test vehicles
• 3.6-liter V-6 with hybrid-assist
• 3.0-liter diesel V-6
• 375-hp plug-in hybrid 4xe
• 6.4-liter V-8

Jeep Wrangler comfort

• Rugged cabin, ample headroom, legroom; four-door models with more rear-seat space, easier access.
• Adjustable steering wheel, seats; customizable driving positions.
• Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, advanced infotainment systems.
• Pronounced road and wind noise, removable doors and roof options.
• Basic standard seats; higher trims with upgraded materials, optional leather upholstery, heated seats.
• Acceptable smoothness over rough surfaces; trucklike ride compared to refined SUVs.

Jeep Wrangler fuel efficiency

• Wrangler excels in fuel economy among gas guzzlers.
• fuel tank capacity: 21.5 gallons
• V-6-powered Wrangler Sahara
• Highway Fuel Efficiency: 20 mpg (3 mpg below EPA rating).
• City Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 17 mpg.

Jeep Wrangler suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Ideal for Dubai’s sandy deserts and rugged terrains.
• Excellent for navigating sand dunes and uneven surfaces.
• Various options for city and off-road driving.
• Effective Air Conditioning for Dubai’s extreme heat.
• Large Size: Challenges in tight urban settings and small parking spaces.

Nissan Patrol 

Nissan Patrol performance

• 4.0-liter V6 engine with 275 horsepower and 394 Nm of torque
• 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 horsepower and 560 Nm of torque
• 7-speed automatic transmission
• Part-time 4WD system
• Independent front and rear suspension
• Towing capacity up to 3,500 kg
• Multiple driving modes
• Disc brakes for effective stopping power

Nissan Patrol comfort

• Spacious interior with high-quality materials
• Premium leather upholstery in higher trims
• Soft-touch surfaces and padded armrests
• Comfortable seating with ample legroom
• Quiet cabin with effective sound insulation
• Adjustable and supportive seats
• User-friendly infotainment system with large touchscreen
• Rear seats with good access and comfort

Nissan Patrol fuel efficiency

• Fuel tank size: 140 liters (37 gallons)
• 5.6-liter V8 engine fuel efficiency: approximately 5.6 to 6.7 km/L (16 to 15 mpg)
• City Fuel consumption: approximately 20 to 25 liters per 100 km (11 to 15 mpg)
• Highway Fuel consumption: approximately 12 to 16 liters per 100 km (15 to 21 mpg)

Nissan Patrol suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Four-wheel-drive system with various modes.
  • Hill-climbing capability.
  • Versatility for different off-road trips.
  • Upgraded suspension system for improved off-road experience.
• Dual-zone climate control for customizable temperatures.
• Powerful cooling capability to handle high temperatures.
• Advanced air filtration to maintain air quality in hot, dusty conditions.

Lexus RX

Lexus RX performance

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder
• Standard front-wheel drive; available all-wheel drive
• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
• Acceleration (0-60 mph): 7.6 seconds (front-wheel drive), 7.2 seconds (all-wheel drive)
• Brakes: Effective but lack feedback
• Engine Refinement: Less smooth and refined compared to older V6 models and current V6 competitors
• Gentle body lean, light steering, neutral but not very engaging

Lexus RX Comfort

• Seating: Two-row, five-seat configuration
• Interior Design: Modern with textured fabric, ambient lighting, open-pore wood trim
• Cargo Space: Generous behind the second-row seats, suitable for groceries or suitcases
• Infotainment Screen: 9.8-inch standard, 14.0-inch optional
• Infotainment Features: Angled toward driver, latest Lexus software, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Optional Features: Navigation, head-up display, Mark Levinson stereo system

Lexus RX fuel efficiency

• Highway fuel consumption: 8.1 L/100 km
• City fuel consumption: 4.8 L/100 km
• Fuel Tank Size: 14.8 gallons (56 liters)
• Fuel Efficiency Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway

Lexus LX suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Generous interior and cargo space ideal for extended trips and transporting items.
• Large size may make it challenging to maneuver and park in tight city spaces.
• Well-built with ample ground clearance for navigating sandy and uneven surfaces.
• Advanced cooling system designed to handle extreme temperatures.

Land Rover Range Sport

Land Rover Range Sport performance

• Standard Engine: 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged with mild-hybrid assistance
• V8 Engine: 4.4L twin-turbocharged
• Hybrid Engine: P400e Plug-In Hybrid combines 404 horsepower, with an electric-only range up to 64 km.
• Eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Standard all-wheel drive.
• Adjustable air suspension.
• Optional Stormer Handling Pack: Adds rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring.
• Noted for comfort and athleticism, with rear-wheel steering easing maneuverability in tight spaces.

Land Rover Range Sport comfort

• Optional 22-way adjustable seats with massage, ventilation, and winged headrests.
• Integrated air purification system reduces odors, bacteria, viruses, and allergens.
• Choice between textile or genuine leather upholstery in two-tone designs.
• Smooth and refined ride, with an adjustable air suspension system.
• Performance-enhancing Stormer Handling Pack available with rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring.

Land Rover Range Sport fuel efficiency

• Fuel Efficiency: City: Approximately 18-21 mpg / Highway: Approximately 24-26 mpg
• Plug-in Hybrid: City/Combined: Approximately 43 MPGe (electric and gas combined)
• Electric-Only Range: About 40 miles
• Fuel Tank Size: Standard Models: 23.2 gallons (88 liters)
• Plug-in Hybrid Model: 19.3 gallons (73 liters)
• Fuel Consumption: Around 18-20 mpg city, 24-26 mpg highway

Land Rover Range Sport suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Elevated Ground Clearance and Sturdy Build: Well-suited for navigating sandy dunes and rough off-road conditions.
• Strong Engine Choices: Delivers sufficient power for urban driving and off-road excursions.
• Efficient Air Conditioning: Handles Dubai’s intense heat effectively.
• Big Dimensions: Could make maneuvering and parking in crowded urban areas more difficult.

Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4 Performance

• Toyota RAV4 2.5 VVT-i (4WD): 222bhp, 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds, top speed 111 mph.
• The latest model’s body is 57% more rigid, enhancing performance on twisty roads.
• Minimal body lean, crisp front-end response, good road grip, and agility in sudden direction changes.
• Direct and well-weighted, contributing to a confident driving experience.
• CVT gearbox performs adequately but is not exceptional.

Toyota RAV4 comfort

• Balances control and softness effectively
• Absorbs small to moderate impacts smoothly
• Body remains stable over bumps without excessive floating
• Front Seats: Nicely sculpted and well-padded
• Seat bottoms may feel flat on longer drives
• Limited adjustment for the passenger seat may affect comfort
• Noise Levels: Generally quiet at highway speeds
• Engine sound becomes coarse during rapid acceleration

Toyota RAV4 fuel efficiency

• Fuel Efficiency: 28-30 mpg combined (city/highway), depending on powertrain and trim level
• City Fuel Consumption: Approximately 27-28 mpg
• Highway Fuel Consumption: Approximately 35-36 mpg
• Fuel Tank Size: 14.8 gallons (56 liters)

Toyota RAV4 suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Good ride for city driving and long trips with effective impact absorption.
•  High Ground Clearance is Suitable for handling occasional off-road conditions and uneven terrain.
• Its Air Conditioning Keeps the cabin cool and comfortable in Dubai’s extreme heat.
• Handling sandy and uneven surfaces reasonably well for a small SUV.
• Not as capable as more rugged off-road vehicles, which might be a drawback for frequent desert driving.

Mercedes-AMG G63

Mercedes-AMG G63 performance

• Engine: 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo
• Power: 577 horsepower
• All-wheel drive
• High-performance brakes with optional ceramic composite brakes.
• AMG adaptive air suspension with adjustable ride height.
• Equipped with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual.

Mercedes-AMG G63 comfort

• Ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.
• High-quality leather upholstery, 12.0-inch digital instrument panel, and a leather-bound AMG steering wheel.
• No power liftgate; side-hinged gate with full-size spare tire.
• Standard cupholders, surround-view camera system, and heated front and rear seats.
• Luxurious interior materials and advanced tech features.

Mercedes-AMG G63 fuel efficiency

• Fuel Efficiency:
  • City: 13 miles per gallon (mpg)
  • Highway: 15 mpg
  •  
• Fuel Tank Size: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)
• Fuel Consumption:
  • City: Approximately 7.7 gallons per 100 miles
  • Highway: Approximately 6.7 gallons per 100 miles

• High fuel consumption can be costly given the current fuel prices, which may not be the most economical choice for daily commuting.

Mercedes-AMG G63 suitability in Dubai roads and climate

• Modern safety technologies for urban and off-road security.
• High-quality air conditioning system, comfortable interior environment even during Dubai’s hottest months.
• Modern safety technologies to drive security on busy urban roads and in challenging off-road conditions.
• Large size may be challenging in narrow city streets and crowded parking areas.

Factors to Consider Before Buying an SUV in Dubai

Selecting a new car in the UAE involves considering many factors. Styling and design, performance versus fuel economy, cost, and even color influence the decision. For those seeking a SUV, additional aspects must be evaluated before making a final choice.

Safety Features

Look for features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Collision Avoidance System, Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Warning, Traction Control, Multiple Airbags, Lane Keeping Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring, and Terrain Response System.

Seating Capacity

Standard SUVs offer at least 5 seats, with full-size models providing a third row for up to 7-8 seats. Decide if you need extra seating or prefer more cargo space.

Cargo Space

cargo space ranges from 1699 to 2265 liters. Check the vehicle’s maximum payload capacity to understand its load-carrying ability.

Off-Roading Capabilities

For frequent off-roaders, essential features include traction control, terrain response system, ABS, high-beam lights, and high ground clearance.

Vehicle Dimensions

 Ensure the SUV fits your parking space and suits city driving.

Maintenance Costs

 Consider long-term maintenance and repair costs.

Resale Value

Some SUV brands retain value better, important for future resale.

Performance Specs

Ensure the SUV’s engine capacity, torque, and horsepower meet your needs. High torque and towing capacity are essential if you plan to tow trailers or cabins.

Fuel Economy

Choose SUVs with efficient engines or hybrid/electric options. Models like the Toyota Highlander and RAV4 are known for their hybrid efficiency.

Transmission Type

SUVs come in 2WD, 4WD, and AWD. Regular off-roaders should consider permanent 4WD for better performance on trails.

FAQ