The UAE automotive market has the potential to sustain itself even in the most challenging environment. Policies and processes introduced by the government make it easier for more people to own a car. At the same time, the availability of numerous affordable options makes it an even more buyer-friendly market. The used car sector plays an important role in helping customers find a car within their specific budget.
In 2021, a huge majority turned towards the affordable pre-owned car market due to factors that affected the supply of new cars. In this report, we study trends on dubizzle to analyse how the affordable pre-owned car market in the UAE has fared in the year 2021.
Non-luxury Pre-owned Car Market Trends in 2021
One of the primary reasons behind plenty of activities in the used car sector has been the global shortage of microchips in 2021. This led to the delay in the launch of new models across the world. Instead of postponing the decision to buy a car, more than usual number of people looked for options in the second-hand car market.
Another reason behind activities in the pre-owned affordable car market has been the general increase in the intent to buy a car. In the post-covid scenario, a lot of people are preferring to travel in personal cars. In this scenario, dubizzle being the market leader in the used car sector, served as the platform where consumers could find their perfect car. Due to the disruption of supply, there has been a noticeable increase in the prices of popular non-luxury used cars by top makes. Using dubizzle’s data, we have compiled a comprehensive affordable pre-owned car market report for 2021. This report provides quantitative and qualitative insights on the UAE’s affordable used car market segment.
Popular Makes for Pre-owned Non-luxury Cars in 2021
When it comes to affordable car makes, it is not surprising to see a lot of Japanese brands in the lead. These brands are known for offering reliable vehicles at a pocket-friendly price. These vehicles are popular worldwide, and some of the leading Japanese automakers are considered global giants in the automotive industry. It is worth mentioning that most of the makes on this list boast a diverse lineup of vehicles, including several luxury and sports models.
Speaking of auto manufacturing giants, Toyota leads the list of popular non-luxury car manufacturers. It is known for producing reliable vehicles with enough features to ensure a good ride. Not to mention, the higher resale value of Toyota cements its position in the affordable car market. Their lineup includes hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, pick-up trucks and even coupes. Moreover, Toyota also has a luxury division known as Lexus, whereas Toyota’s Land Cruiser is counted among the most popular luxury SUVs.
Following Toyota, Nissan has secured the second position. Nissan is known for its eco-friendly initiatives and fuel-efficient options. Like Toyota, Nissan also has a diverse lineup of vehicles to suit the varying needs of consumers. Their new models boast innovative features like the Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology that bundles up a number of infotainment and modern safety features. Nissan has also revealed its first all-electric crossover, Nissan Ariya, at Expo 2020. Nissan also has some good luxury models to offer such as the Nissan Patrol, which is a strong competitor of the Land Cruiser, and the iconic Nissan GT-R.
Japanese makes have faced tough competition from the American brands making non-luxury cars. Ranking third on our list, Ford is the leading American make in the affordable car market segment. The first and foremost reason for Ford’s popularity is the legendary Mustang, which remains popular in the affordable car segment due to its sporty looks and performance. Ford is also known for launching fully electric vehicles in many regions of the world. Lincoln is the luxury vehicle division of Ford. However, Ford itself has many high-end models to offer, like the iconic Ford GT supercar.
Honda is fifth on the list as yet another Japanese make offering a multitude of budget-friendly options, giving tough competition to the top brands in the sedan’s category. Both of these brands are popular for providing models that can compete with any top tier non-luxury car, but their cars are more pocket-friendly. However, one rank above used Honda, with very little difference in popularity, is Hyundai. Hyundai attracts attention mainly due to three of its most popular models, Sonata and Tucson. Along with Honda and Hyundai, Chevrolet also maintains its popularity with the models like Camaro and Silverado.
Another South Korean make, Kia, stands at the last spot, just slightly behind Dodge in terms of popularity in the non-luxury pre-owned car market. You can browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE for purchasing considerable models of these popular car makes.
Most Popular Pre-owned Models for Top Non-luxury Makes in 2021
Brands that make non-luxury cars generally garner popularity across the world. These auto manufacturers operate with an aim to make cars pocket-friendly for more people. They utilise efficient manufacturing technology to reduce the overall cost of the car without compromising on factors such as quality, durability and reliability. Moreover, the spare parts of these car brands are also low-cost and easily available across the globe which also reduces their maintenance cost. However, the popularity of a make also depends on the popularity of its most successful models. A study of the top three models by the most popular affordable makes in 2021 will give more insights into the market activities during the year.
Toyota has ranked first as an auto manufacturer, with Camry, Corolla and Prado being the most popular affordable cars of 2021. Smooth car suspension, powerful engine, elegant interior and easy car maintenance are the core features of these cars. The fuel efficiency of the Camry makes it the most popular one in the category. It has the efficient Atkinson cycle TNGA 2.5-Litre four-cylinder Dynamic Force engine that makes it suitable for the long run. It is why Camry is part of the Dubai Taxi fleet. Next to the Camry is Corolla, another popular fuel-efficient car by Toyota. The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is equipped with a 4 cylinder 1.8L engine supported by a 16V battery. Toyota Prado is an SUV known for its off-roading capabilities and powerful four-cylinder or V6 engine. Its lighter body and 18-inch car wheelbase make it a perfect choice for off-roaders looking for affordable options with reliable performance.
Following used Toyota, Nissan is next on the list for its popular models Altima, Pathfinder and Maxima. Nissan Altima is equipped with a 4-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine that offers good fuel economy. Whereas, Maxima has a more sporty reputation due to its design as well as performance specs. Its 2021 series is equipped with a legendary VQ V6 engine and the latest driver-assist technology. Maxima 2021 is currently available in three trims SV, SR1 and SR2 each providing a unique set of innovative features. Like sedans, Nissan SUVs are also popular for being feature-packed vehicles. The three-row mid-range Nissan Pathfinder is popular for being an eco-friendly and multi-terrain SUV. The 2022 series arrives with some design changes such as C-shaped LED headlights, machine cut alloy wheels and panoramic moonroof. This four-wheel-drive SUV with a 1,500 kg towing capacity is powered by a powerful V6 engine. You can opt for used Nissan car models to avail the aforementioned features.
Ford’s Mustang, Explorer and F-Series are also popular affordable cars in the UAE competing with top tier Japanese brands. With no exception, Ford’s Mustang is known for its thrilling performance on the road. This sportier vehicle always marks its distinct position because of its powerful engine and muscular appearance. It has a massive following across the world. The 2021 Mustang is available with two engine options: a 2.3L Ecoboost and a 5.0L V8 engine.
For Hyundai, its electric and fuel-efficient sedans are enough to compete with other brands. The mid-size Hyundai Sonata is considered by a lot of buyers because of its advanced technologies. The 2021 Sonata is equipped with a 2.5 MPi gasoline engine making it fuel-efficient also. Hyundai vehicles have a decent set of safety features such as safe exit assist and Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist (RCCA). For the same reason, their mid-size compact SUV Tucson is also popular among the non-luxury pre-owned car market segment.
Honda is popular across the world for its affordable models like Accord, Civic and City. Accord is counted among the best selling mid-size sedans around the world. The Civic has improved tremendously over generations. It offers decent performance and a desirable level of comfort. As for used Chevrolet, Silverado, Cruze and Malibu top the list. Cruze is a compact car suitable for those concerned about fuel economy. Its 2022 model is expected to arrive with a facelift. Malibu is a midsize family sedan, while Silverado is a full-size pickup truck. Next, Mitsubishi Pajero, Dodge’s Charger and Volkswagen’s Tiguan are among the most preferred car models by top car makes in the non-luxury used car market.
Non-Luxury Pre-owned Car Models by Body Type
In the non-luxury pre-owned car market segment, fuel economy and assistive technology are the major elements. The following section will provide a detailed insight of the average prices in 2021 for the non-luxury car model years (2015 till 2019) on dubizzle, classified according to the two most popular body types.
Most Popular Pre-owned SUVs with Average Price in 2021
There is a huge demand for second-hand SUVs in the UAE, owing to the popularity of off-roading activities in the country. Offroading capabilities, ample storage, roomy interior, athletic exterior and road prowess among other features is what makes them desirable. Here are the most popular non-luxury used SUVs in the UAE.
Ford Explorer ranks first among the budget-friendly used SUV models in the UAE. The model known for its ride quality, cargo space, safety and technical features is available in 3.0-litre, 2.3-litre and 3.3-litre engine options. During 2021, the average price range of Explorer models from 2015 to 2019 was around AED 54,000 to 92,000. You can browse through used Ford for sale in the UAE to explore more considerable models.
Following Explorer, the second-ranking SUV is Mitsubishi Pajero. The SUV’s average price range in 2021 for the 2015 to 2019 model is around AED 45,000 to AED 106,000. Though the model was discontinued in 2021, the 4WD is known for robust road competency and safety features among second-hand car buyers.
The third most preferred pre-owned SUV model is Toyota Prado. It is designed for rough and tough road conditions, the rugged SUV can power through difficult terrains. Therefore, the vehicle is considered a competitor for Mitsubishi Pajero. The average price for Prado 2019 model during 2021 was around AED 138,000.
Following Prado, the fourth most popular non-luxury used SUV model in the UAE is Toyota RAV 4. The RAV 4 is a compact SUV with a sophisticated look with an elegant exterior, comfortable interior and advanced driving features. Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson are from the same league and give tough competition to RAV 4. The average price range of RAV 4 during 2021 was around AED 53,000 to 76,000 for its 2015 to 2019 model.
Next on the list is none other than Jeep Wrangler. In 2021, the average price of Wrangler for its 2015 to 2019 model ranges between AED 74,000 to AED 135,000. Wranglers are common in the UAE because they offer fabulous offroad drives, thanks to advanced technology and safety features – and all this comes at an economical price.
Nissan Pathfinder is ranked sixth on the list. This full-size, seven-seater SUV is an attractive, practical vehicle capable of both on and off-road drives. The SUV’s starting average price range in 2021 for the 2015 model is AED 47,500.
KIA Sportage ranks seventh under the most preferred budget-friendly used SUV models in the UAE. The Sportage’s average price in 2021 ranges between AED 35,500 to AED 64,000 for its 2015 to 2019 model. The SUV has a comfortable interior, a powerful engine, technical features and safety features. Next in line is the Sportage’s competitor Hyundai Tucson. The compact crossover SUV powered by a 2.4 litre, 4-cylinder engine is great for urban commuting. It has a roomy interior with a seating capacity of five passengers and a sporty exterior. In 2021, the average price range of Tucson is from AED 36,000 to AED 60,000 for the 2015 to 2019 models. Furthermore, Ford Edge and Nissan X-Trail have also made it to the list. Where Ford Edge is popular for its appealing exterior, decent interior and powerful engine, X-Trail is popular for its powerful powertrain and intelligent dual-clutch transmission system. The average price range of Ford Edge in 2021 for its 2015 to 2019 model is from AED 43,000 to AED 122,000. Whereas, average price of Nissan X-Trail 2021 ranges between AED 44,000 to AED 73,000.
Most Popular Non-luxury Pre-owned Sedans with Average Price in 2021
There is a massive demand for sedans in the second-hand car market of the UAE, owing to their performance features, convenience, easy maintenance, fuel economy and safety features. Let’s go through the most popular non-luxury used sedan models in the UAE along with their 2021 average prices.
Nissan Altima tops the list for budget-friendly second-hand sedan models. Altima, also known as a luxury on a budget sedan is known for its sleek exterior, comfortable interior and custom-built safety options. The average price of Nissan Altima in 2021 ranges between AED 26,000 to AED 58,000 for its 2015 to 2019 model.
With a 40-year legacy, Toyota Camry is ranked second on the list. The button-operated features of Camry mark its distinct position in the segment. In 2021, it has an average price of approximately AED 27,500 for the 2015 model and around AED 75,000 for the 2019 model. Camry is followed by another popular car model series Toyota Corolla. The car is known for its reliable, powerful and fuel-efficient engine. In 2021, the average price of a 2019 Corolla is AED 46,000. Honda Accord, a strong competitor of Corolla and Camry, is ranked fourth in the list. Accord is famous for its sportier trims and powerful engines with an average price range of AED 40,000 to AED 77,000 in 2021 for its 2015 to 2019 models respectively.
The fifth popular affordable used sedan model is none other than Dodge Charger. This sedan’s price averaged AED 51,500 for the 2015 model and AED 111,000 for the 2019 model during 2021. This price is justified because of its comfortable seating, spacious trunk and powerful engine. Next to Charger is the Honda Civic in sixth position. High fuel efficiency, attractive exterior and roomy interior are the major factors that mark its distinct position. In 2021, the average price range of the 2019 Honda Civic is AED 58,000.
Hyundai Sonata is ranked seventh in the list for its larger cabins in mid-size sedans. Its average price range in 2021 for the 2015 to 2019 model is from AED 29,000 to AED 46,000. Following Sonata is Nissan Maxima. Nissan Maxima is one of the affordable sedans equipped with a V6 engine. The average price range of Maxima in 2021 starts from AED 76,000 for the 2019 model.
On number nine is Mitsubishi Lancer because of its ride quality and handling. The sedan’s average price for the 2015 to 2018 model in 2021 ranges from AED 24,000 to AED 40,000. The last position is acquired by Nissan Sunny. The average price of Sunny in 2021 for its 2015 to 2019 model is from AED 16,000 to AED 30,000.
Conclusion Remarks
The automobile industry in the UAE receives a great contribution from the non-luxury pre-owned car market segment. This can be due to the convenience of acquiring auto loans and finances at lower interest rates. Individuals can request an auto loan at the minimum salary range of AED 3000 to AED 5000. Along with this, the equilibrium between features and price of budget second-hand cars also attracts a large portion of consumers. Moreover, the lower depreciation value of affordable cars is also one of the reasons why many people prefer this option.
We conclude our affordable pre-owned car market report for 2021 with the following insights:
- The non-luxury segment is dominated by Japanese brands like Toyota, Nissan and Honda.
- American car brands like Ford and Dodge also secure a prominent position among the dominant Japanese brands.
- Tough competition between SUVs and sedans is observed in the non-luxury used car segment.
- Compact and mid-size SUVs are more popular among users.
- South Korean brands like Hyundai and Kia also mark their position in the market.
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. The non-luxury pre-owned models in the report have been identified based on advertised prices and are not reflective of the quality of the brand and/or the make.
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