The UAE is a huge market for luxury cars. Consumers prefer these vehicles not just for the features and luxury but also for the privilege and prestige associated with the brands. Due to a higher interest in these premium makes, there has always been a high demand for luxury vehicles in the pre-owned car market as well.
In 2021, the global automotive industry faced several challenges that led to a shortage of new luxury vehicles across the globe. There was a slight shift in activities and preferences as many consumers opted for pre-owned luxury cars in the UAE.
Looking at dubizzle’s huge database, it is safe to say that there was significant user interest towards second-hand luxury cars in the UAE during 2021. In this used luxury car market report, we study the 2021 market trends for this particular sector and shed light on the most popular used luxury cars in the UAE.
Luxury Pre-owned Car Market Trends in 2021
One of the primary reasons the pre-owned luxury car market has gained more momentum than usual in 2021 was the cancellation or delay of several new models set to be released in 2021. The industry has witnessed a gap in the supply of new vehicles triggered by chip shortage and the disruption in the supply chain across the automotive industry. The supply-demand imbalance has noticeably changed the industry landscape. The interest in luxury used cars has increased along with the prices of top models by popular makes.
Furthermore, the demand for modern safety features and innovative technology has also spiked interest in luxury models. The following sections will elaborate on the makes and models dominating the luxury pre-owned car sector in 2021.
Popular Makes for Pre-owned Luxury Cars in 2021
When it comes to luxury cars, we observe the domination of European makes. German brands, in particular, hold a significant position in the automotive world. The leading ones are counted among the pioneers in this industry. Their vast experience in the industry has enabled them to deliver superior quality and performance as per customers’ demands in every era.
Approaching its centennial, Mercedes-Benz has topped the list of the most popular used luxury makes. The top-rated used S-Class is considered the epitome of luxury with a high-powered engine, roomy interior and futuristic features. For instance, the 2021 S-Class is equipped with an intelligent multimedia system and ambient lighting integrated into the driver assistance program. Mercedes-Benz has also announced the first all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS, hailing it as the first fully electric car in the ultra-luxury model range.
Second on our list is yet another German car brand, BMW – also called the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’. BMW has been around for more than 100 years. In its initial days, it was known for manufacturing sporty coupes, but then ranges like 3-Series and 5-Series changed that perception. These model ranges redefine luxury by focusing on outclass performance just as much as unmatched luxury. Moreover, they also stand out due to impeccable attention to minute details. Another German make, Audi, has secured the sixth position on the list due to some brilliant features, such as the signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system, in its luxury models.
Lexus and Land Rover have acquired the third and fourth position on our list in terms of popularity among the second-hand luxury car makes. Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, offers full-size sedans and luxury crossovers vehicles. The latest LS-series model is also one of the few sedans with a V6 twin-turbo engine. Moreover, the latest Lexus LX600, a luxury full-size SUV, features the same 3.6-litre V6 we see in Toyota Land Cruiser. Land Rover, on the other hand, is famous for its SUVs that offer a combo of luxurious and off-roading features. Land Rover’s 2021 model is also available in a hybrid version.
There is no surprise that popular brands like Italian car make Ferrari and German brand Porsche, have also made it to the list. Their exclusive sports cars have a massive following across the globe. Similarly, British brand McLaren is also among the top high-end car makes as it remains popular among people looking for pre-owned luxury sports models. You can browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE, for purchasing considerable models of these top makes.
Most Popular Pre-owned Models for Top Luxury Makes in 2021
A tough competition is observed between popular luxury cars in the UAE. According to the car body type, sedans and SUVs dominate the list of top car models. Mercedes S-Class has ranked first on the list followed by C-Class and E-Class. With no exception, these model series of Mercedes-Benz secure a significant position in the luxury market segment as a whole.
Mercedes S-Class is counted among one of the most luxurious sedan series across the globe. The car is known for introducing a number of innovative and technologically advanced features to the automotive industry. The 2021 Mercedes S-Class marks a new comfort level with magic body control, remote parking package and temperature-controlled cup holders.
Mercedes C-Class features a four-cylinder 1.5-litre engine with an EQ Boost to provide additional horsepower. However, a few variants like C 300 are also available with a 2.0-litre engine. The E-Class series is not far behind as it is termed the most feature-loaded series in the luxury segment. Worth-mentioning features include a large panoramic sunroof, V-line engine and button touch seat adjustments. Moreover, E-Class is not limited to one body configuration. It includes sedans, long-base sedans, coupes, cabriolets and even station wagons.
BMW is second on the list, with X5, 3-Series and 5-Series being the most popular models it offers. The used BMW X5 is a mid-size crossover SUV with a signature AWD system. The series distinguishes itself as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Its 2-axle air suspension and dynamic damper control make it a perfect luxury vehicle by ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. BMW X5 M50i xDrive is equipped with a powerful 8-cylinder petrol engine suitable for serious offroading – whereas 3-Series is a luxury sedan with a cockpit assistance system and robust engine. BMW M340i trim is known for its sporty edge and can go from 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds.
For Lexus, LX-Series is popular for its luxury full-size SUV with features like dual variable valve timing, engine and Lexus’ exclusive safety system, whereas its LS-Series boasts full-size luxury sedans with powerful engines such as a 416 hp twin-turbo.
Land Rover remains popular among used luxury car seekers with its Range Rovers. With the latest model series of Range Rover, the SUV manufacturer is aiming to build eco-friendly off-roaders. Sustainable material is used in the interior, whereas plug-in hybrid variants are offered to reduce carbon footprint. All of the currently available trims, Range Rover SE and Range Rover HSE, feature an all-wheel steering drive and terrain response system.
Here are some interesting insights we have gathered about the most popular models by top makes:
- The luxury sedan series of Mercedes (S-Class, C-Class and E-Class) and BMW (3-Series and 5-Series) top the list, followed by Lexus LS-Series.
- Ever-popular SUVs of Lexus and Land Rover give a tough competition to the luxury sedans. The inclusion of innovative features for multiple-terrain supports them in maintaining their position.
- The SUVs and trucks with innovative features, reliable off-roading capability and smooth drive are preferred.
- Super and sports cars also earn their position among the top models due to their efficient engine performance, merchandise products, limited model series and comfortable interior.
- The ultra luxury car ranges by Rolls-Royce are also popular due to their strong market reputation and following.
Pre-owned Luxury Car Models by Body Type
Most luxury car brands boast a solid brand reputation and strong fan following due to their lineup of premium vehicles with exclusive features. In the following paragraphs, we have discussed the 2021 average prices for the most in-demand model years (2015 till 2019) on dubizzle by body type.
Most Popular Pre-owned Luxury SUVs with Average Price in 2021
The list of popular SUVs with average prices in 2021 shows a whole new dimension of the luxury pre-owned car market in the UAE. Some exclusive models from brands like Toyota and Nissan are also preferred by people looking for second-hand luxury cars. Due to their features and performance, these vehicles fit the definition of a luxury car.
Nissan Patrol is on the top of the list with an average price range of AED 107,000 to AED 155,000 for its pre-owned models from 2015 to 2019 during 2021. Although more affordable than other cars on the list, Patrol off-roading capabilities can easily compete with top models from high-end makes. It is nothing short of an icon in the offroading category, owing to its powerful V8 engine. And therefore, rightfully counted as a reliable vehicle for desert driving. Besides its off-roading capabilities, Patrol offers innovative features such as button-operated controls that elevate the overall driving experience. Patrol received a major facelift in 2020 with significant changes in the grille, bumper and headlights. Nissan Patrol Nismo is expected to arrive with yet another major facelift.
Second on the list, yet another full-size Japanese SUV, Toyota Land Cruiser, stands as the toughest competitor in the category. The used Land Cruiser is available with an average price range of AED 129,000 to AED 206,000 in 202. LC offers a powerful V6 or V8 engine and promises a smooth ride on the toughest terrains. LC is also known for its cargo and towing capacity, which is rare in the luxury SUV segment. Toyota celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Land Cruiser in 2021 with a facelift. The redesigned Land Cruiser 300 arrived in Dubai amidst fireworks and water salute arranged by Dubai Police.
The Range Rover, another popular SUV in the UAE, ranked third on our list. It also has a huge fanbase but falls in a completely different league from Land Cruiser and Patrol. Its AWD system and air suspensions make it a high-performance off-roader. Retaining its iconic status, Range Rover stays true to the original and has rarely received any major facelift in years. The main purpose of this is to maintain the legacy and iconic aesthetics of the model. In 2021, the average price of a pre-owned Range Rover is around AED 181,000 to AED 383,500. The Mercedes G-Class also belongs to this category with an exceptional fan following in the UAE. In 2021, Its average range for 2015 to 2019 is from AED 234,000 to AED 730,000.
Following these full-size off-roaders, is a mid-size luxury crossover, Porsche Cayenne, ranking sixth. This model series was the first five-seater manufactured by Porsche, famous for their sports cars. Porsche Cayenne S at the time of release was the first mid-size crossover equipped with a 4.5-litre V8 engine. Cayenne earns its position because of its comfortable ride quality, higher handling and driver-assist features. In 2021, the average price range of Cayenne is AED 147,000 to 328,000 for model years 2015 to 2019. The Porsche Cayenne is given tough competition by the BMW X5-Series, which rank seventh on our list. X5 is famous for being a perfectly balanced vehicle for all terrains. Comfortable ride, AWD and a twin-turbocharged V8 engine are that set it apart. The average price of used BMW X5 models ranges from AED 110,500 to AED 300,000 in 2021.
Jeep, a legend in the off-roading category, is the only American car brand on the list with its most popular Jeep Grand Cherokee priced approximately AED 78,000 to 135,700 in 2021 for model years between 2015 to 2019. It is yet another full-size SUV preferred due to its reliable performance on rough terrains. Jeep Cherokee 2021 was the first model with a three-row variant, and the upcoming 2022 model is expected to arrive with a major facelift.
Most Popular Pre-owned Luxury Sedans with Average Price in 2021
With no exception, the Mercedes S-Class tops the list with an average price range of AED 185,00 to AED 348,000 in 2021. Flaunting Mercedes’ latest tech and features, S-Class is recognised as a synonym for luxury. The latest models offer high-end features such E-Active body control, Pre-Safe impulse side and MBUX Interior Assist. MBUX is a gesture-controlled system with the potential to redefine the luxury car experience. Mercedes S580 2021 is equipped with a powerful 496hp twin-turbocharged V8 mated with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.
The second and third positions are also occupied by the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class. The latest E-Class is equipped with a powerful 3.0-litre inline 6-Turbo engine. Competing with them, Lexus LS ranks fourth in the list. Latest Lexus LS contains 3.4-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. Moreover, Lexus focuses on the minute details in this series to enhance its luxury. The latest LS contains a spindle grill that consists of 5,032 facets and requires six months to arrange.
The subsequent three positions of our list are occupied by the finest sedans by BMW. The mid-size BMW 5-Series is known for its high-speed performance and sleek sporty exterior. The latest 5-Series can hit 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. It has a sport differential system and quality suspension that mark its distinction. In 2021, the average price range of used BMW 5-Series is from AED 68,000 to AED 187,000. It is followed by BMW 7-Series with a price range of AED 93,000 to AED 305,000. The 7-series is famous not just for comfort but also for its low carbon emission, agile power delivery and responsiveness of its safety features. This luxurious sedan series is equipped with a 4.4-litre V8 engine, which makes it a powerhouse of performance. The 2022 BMW 7-series has a plug-in hybrid model, which makes a rare high-power yet fuel-efficient luxury vehicle.
Not to mention, we have the BMW 3-Series which is also termed as the original sports sedan. The latest 3-Series model can speed 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds backed by 382hp.
The rest of the list is filled with models like Lexus ES, IS and GS series. These models are known for their advanced engineering that assures a comfortable ride and smooth handling.
In our annual luxury pre-owned cars market report for 2021, we have provided the most popular models by body type along with average prices for model-years ranging from 2015 to 2019. The difference between the price range of the above-mentioned vehicles from 2015 to 2019 indicates the depreciation over the years. For buyers and sellers, car depreciation is a major factor to consider before purchasing a used car in the UAE.
Concluding Remarks
The pre-owned car sector secures a significant position in the UAE’s automotive landscape. An increase in demand of the used vehicle market was observed due to the delays in release and unavailability of new vehicles.
We conclude our luxury pre-owned car market report with some useful insights and fun facts:
- SUVs and sedans have remained the most preferred body types in the luxury segment.
- German makes like Mercedes-Benz and BMW have dominated the top ranks with high-end models that are packed with innovative features and powerful engines.
- Mercedes’ S-Class has remained the most popular choice for people seeking luxury sedans.
- In the SUV category, some luxury models from Japanese makes like Nissan Patrol Toyota Land Cruiser have topped the list while being closely followed by more luxurious SUVs such as Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Porsche Cayenne.
- Luxury sports vehicles from McLaren, Ferrari and Porsche have also made it to the list.
Haider Ali Khan, the CEO of Bayut & dubizzle and the Head of EMPG MENA shared his views on the UAE’s pre-owned car market in 2021 and said:
“The UAE has always been a huge market for luxury cars, and we know there is a significant customer base that prioritises certain high-end brands. Leading luxury cars manufacturers are well aware of this fact, and have many exclusive launches every year. However, 2021 turned out to be an exception due to the microchip shortage that affected car production across the world. For many buyers, the cancellation or delay of their anticipated 2021 model has been a setback. Instead of waiting, many auto enthusiasts turned towards the pre-owned car market, and dubizzle is proud to have served as a portal where buyers could find what they were looking for.
Close to 300,000 new cars were added in 2021 alone, featuring cars from more than 100 auto manufacturers. Many pre-owned luxury and budget-friendly car buyers trusted dubizzle as a service provider for a safer and hassle-free experience. In order to cater to the ever-increasing popularity of the platform, we rapidly expanded our list of services and products to meet our customers’ needs and opened 3 new branches for dubizzle Cars in Dubai last year in the areas of Al Qusais, Al Quoz and Al Barsha. We also introduced mobile car inspection services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Customers can now call our team for car inspection without having to set foot outside their home.
As we look ahead, the auto industry is expected to overcome its challenges in the future, but the landscape of the pre-owned car market is likely to remain similar in 2022. People will continue to buy pre-owned vehicles from a brand they can trust and rely on, and dubizzle is proud to have successfully built that reputation for itself.”
Disclaimer: The above report is based on data from listings advertised on dubizzle and is not representative of actual car transactions in the UAE. The average prices (AED) are for pre-owned models manufactured from 2015 to 2019.
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