According to a report, almost one in two cars sold in the United Arab Emirates are sport utility vehicles. This highlights the popularity of this type of vehicle in the country.
But why are SUVs the most sought-after new cars in Dubai and across the UAE? Firstly, they are popular because of their ample seating and cargo space, making them a superb choice for families, long road trips, and outdoor adventures.
The elevated driving position of this type of vehicle offers better visibility, enhancing reliability and confidence on the road. It also comes with modern safety features and technology, ensuring you have a comfortable and secure ride.
Moreover, SUVs can handle different terrains and weather conditions, perfect for both urban and off-road driving.
These reasons make SUVs an excellent choice for interested car buyers.
Shopping for Your Dream SUV
If you’re looking forward to owning your first SUV, follow these tips for buying one:
1. Establish your needs and budget.
Knowing your specific needs and setting a realistic budget is the first step to buying the perfect SUV.
Start by considering what you need from the vehicle. Do you require a car with ample seating capacity for your family or one with large cargo space for your lifestyle?
Also, think about the vehicle’s fuel efficiency since it can significantly impact its long-term running costs.
Aside from the cost of the vehicle, you must also consider the other expenses that come with owning an SUV. You need to factor in insurance and regular maintenance requirements, among others.
These additional costs can add up quickly, which is why you should have a clear financial plan. You can create this by using an online calculator to estimate these expenses and ensure you are financially prepared for your new purchase.
2. Research available SUV models.
Conducting thorough research on various vehicles is crucial, regardless of which type or model you want to buy.
Compare different models to find out which ones align with your needs and preferences. Use websites offering side-by-side comparisons to check their sizes, available features, and reviews.
Look into each vehicle’s reliability ratings and safety features to ensure you buy one that will perform well over the years. Models with advanced systems, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, should be at the top of your list of must-have safety features.
Read ratings from reputable organisations to get a comprehensive view of each vehicle’s safety and reliability as well.
3. Consider the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
SUVs vary in terms of their fuel economy. Selecting a model that offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency can help you save a lot of money over time.
Check the miles per gallon (MPG) ratings of the models you’re interested in. These ratings provide a standard measure of how far the vehicle can travel on a particular amount of fuel, allowing you to choose the best one that ensures you avoid wasting money on your petrol needs.
It’s also worth considering the type of fuel the SUV uses. Some models may offer hybrid or electric options, which can be more economical in the long run, even if they usually require a higher outlay.
Additionally, think about the impact of your driving habits on fuel efficiency. If you engage in stop-and-go city driving daily, you’ll consume more petrol than highway cruising, which means you should choose an SUV with good gas mileage.
4. Check the vehicle’s safety features.
Modern SUVs come with advanced safety technologies designed to protect you and your passengers. These features include:
- Lane departure warning: Alerts you if you accidentally leave your lane
- Automatic emergency braking: Helps you avoid collisions if it detects a potential crash
- Blind-spot monitoring: Lets you know if there are vehicles in your blind spots and makes lane changes safer
- Adaptive cruise control: Adjusts your speed to ensure you keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead
Also, take the time to check safety ratings from reputable organisations to confirm your prospective vehicle’s safety performance.
5. Take the vehicle for a test drive.
Taking the SUV for a test drive allows you to get a feel for the vehicle's handling, comfort, and overall driving experience.
When test driving, pay attention to how the SUV responds to different road conditions and driving scenarios. Take it for a spin on city streets and highways to get a good grasp of its performance.
Evaluate visibility from the driver’s seat. This means checking for blind spots or areas where your vision may be hampered. While taking the vehicle for a spin, consider how manoeuvrable and easy it is to park, especially in tight spaces.
Additionally, assess the vehicle seating and interior layout to ensure it meets your needs and note the features that enhance your driving experience.
6. Look for deals.
Although you may be splurging on a great SUV, look for promotions, incentives, and financing deals that can help you save money.
Many manufacturers and dealers have great car offers and deals or special financing rates, especially during end-of-year sales or when new models are introduced in the market. Timing your purchase around these periods can help you save money.
You may want to consider obtaining pre-approval for an auto loan from your bank or credit company, too, as this can give you extra leverage.
With these tips, you can enjoy more perks and drive your dream SUV in the UAE.
