Want to know which car is best for you? Learn about the different vehicle body types in the UAE and choose the one that's perfect for your needs!

Which car model is best for driving in the UAE?

If you're looking for a new car, chances are you have many options. But which one is right for you?

Cars in UAE are available in various sizes and designs. Each vehicle is categorized according to the body type. Car body type means the style and structure of the vehicle, whether it is large, tall, low, or boxy. Vehicles are categorized based on their seating capacity, boot space, design, and features.

Quick Read Section

• Based on seating capacity, boot space, design, and other attributes, cars in the UAE are divided into ten main body types.
• Car body styles such as sedans, SUVs, and MPVs provide plenty of legroom, storage space, and seating capacity without sacrificing comfort.
• Sedans are perfect for people who are traveling light as they have a wide interior but a smaller trunk than other car models.
• For large families or corporate groups, SUVs and MPVs offer plenty of room for both luggage and passengers.
• Family size, road performance, features, seating capacity, and safety technology should all be considered when selecting the ideal car model.

This guide details the vehicle body types available in the UAE and will help you choose the right vehicle body type suitable for your driving needs.

How many car body types are there?

Cars are classified into various body types based on their characteristics. There are 10 main car body types available in the UAE. You should be aware of the attributes of each of these models to choose the best vehicle for you.

Car Body Types in UAE

Depending on the interior, capacity, road performance, and dimensions, vehicles in the UAE are categorized into these body types:

1.     SEDAN

Sedan cars are a popular type of vehicle used by motorists in the UAE. It is structured as a passenger car with 4 doors, engine compartment at the front and boot space at the rear. Sedan passenger cars can accommodate four to five passengers and are available in compact, medium, and large models. This vehicle model is renowned for its modern features and for being fuel-efficient and economical. It also comes in luxury sedan models that offer more sophisticated features and a sporty appearance.

Some popular Sedan models in UAE are:

• BMW 3 Series
• Hyundai Elantra
• Honda Accord
• Toyota Camry
• Audi A3
• Nissan Altima

2.     SUV

SUVs are large four-wheel vehicles, with an elevated structure high off the ground. Also known as a Sports Utility Vehicle, it provides a pleasant driving experience both on-road and off-road. The SUV car model can accommodate up to 8 individuals and is an ideal vehicle type for large families. This model is particularly known for its large seating capacity, abundant boot space and performance on the road. SUVs are suitable for driving in harsh terrains and can be utilized for off-road activities.

Some popular SUV models in UAE are:

• Hyundai Tucson
• Ford Explorer
• BMW X-5
• Lexus LX 570
• Mitsubishi Pajero
• Nissan Patrol
• Toyota Land Cruiser

3.     Coupe

Coupe cars are a more compact and sportier version of a sedan. The coupe model typically has 2 front folding seats, 2 doors, and a sleek body.  This model does not have rear seating capacity and can only accommodate the driver and a single passenger. It also has a slanted roof and a boot compartment at the rear end. The coupe model is designed to enhance speed and agility while driving on the road. This model is used by the Abu Dhabi police department for their patrol vehicles.

Coupes typically have two seats and two doors; however, some car brands sell coupes with four doors and seats such as Mercedes-Benz CLS.

Some popular Coupe models in UAE are:

• Chevrolet Camaro
• Porsche Cayman
• Audi R8
• BMW i8
• Ford Mustang
• BMW 4 Series
• Dodge Challenger

4.     MPV

MPV cars are multi-purpose vehicles that have large seating capacity and can accommodate large groups and family members. MPVs are structured in a box-shaped design, like a van. Similar to hatchbacks, MPVs have abundant space for luggage due to their large body dimensions. This model can seat up to 7 passengers with enough space for baggage as well. Taxis in Dubai for People of Determination use MPVs as passengers can be comfortably accommodated along with their wheelchairs inside the vehicle.

Some popular MPV models in UAE are:

• Mercedes-Benz V-Class
• Mitsubishi Xpander
• Honda Odyssey
• Kia Carnival
• Toyota Previa
• Volkswagen Caddy

5.     Hatchback

Hatchbacks belong to a smaller body type with a sloping back that connects the rear boot with the rear seats. Boot space in hatchbacks is smaller in comparison to sedan cars. It has four doors and has a seating capacity to accommodate up to 4 individuals. The main distinguishing feature of hatchback cars is their ability to easily navigate through traffic and fit into tight parking spots due to their compact structure and being lightweight. This model is popular for being economical, fuel-efficient, and having abundant space despite its small dimensions.

Some popular Hatchback models in UAE are:

• Volkswagen Golf
• Toyota Yaris
• Nissan Tiida
• Mercedes Benz A-Class
• Suzuki Swift
• Ford Fiesta

6.     Convertible

Convertible cars have retractable roofs that make it possible for passengers to enjoy the open air during their ride. This model is known for its luxury features and is ideal for long drives and road trips. It can accommodate up to 4 seats and typically has two doors. The retractable roof of a convertible car can be detached partially or entirely with the help of electronic or manual control.

Some popular Convertible models in UAE are:

• Ferrari F8 Spider
• Porsche 911
• Ford Mustang
• BMW Z4
• Jaguar F-Type
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet

7.     Jeep

Jeeps are ideal vehicles for your daily commute as well as for off-road activities. They are available in unique designs and their stylish aesthetics make them stand out from other vehicle body types. Jeeps have great towing capacity and are made of sturdy material that makes them durable and easy to navigate through rugged terrain.

Some popular Jeep models in UAE are:

• Grand Cherokee
• Jeep Wrangler
• Jeep Compass
• Jeep Renegade

8.     Pick Up

Pickup trucks are a vehicle body type with an open boot space located at the rear and can be used to store cargo and equipment safely. This model can be utilized for both commercial uses as well as off-road activities. These trucks can carry heavy loads and are available in various designs.

Some popular Pick-Up models in UAE are:

• Mitsubishi L200
• Ford Ranger
• GMC Sierra
• Dodge RAM Rebel 1500
• Ford F-150

9.     Van

Vans are mainly utilized for transportation facilities for employees by public and private sector companies in the UAE. Also known as minibuses, this model is available in various sizes and provides abundant space to accommodate passengers as well as their luggage. Vans typically provide more space than SUVs, pickup trucks and MPVs.

Some popular Van models in UAE are:

• Toyota Hiace
• Peugeot Expert
• Hyundai Staria
• Nissan Urvan

10.  Roadsters

Roadsters are popular vehicles in UAE, known for their sporty designs and open roof features.  Alternatively known as Spyder cars, roadsters are also available as convertibles. Unlike convertibles which have retractable roofs, roadsters have open roofs.

Some popular Roadster models in UAE are:

• Jaguar F-Type
• Bentley Continental GT
• BMW Z4

Which car body type is the most comfortable?

Sedan cars, SUVs, and MPVs are car body types that offer abundant legroom, luggage space, and seating capacity without compromising comfort. Sedan cars are ideal for individuals traveling without much luggage as they have a wide interior, but less boot space than other car models. SUVs and MPVs allow ample space for both cargo and passengers and are ideal for large families or business groups.

Now that you have understood the popular vehicle body types available in the UAE, you should take great care in choosing the best car model for you.

Certain factors need to be kept in mind while choosing your car model such as:

• Number of family members or employees
• On-road and Off-road Performance
• Safety features and technology
• Seating and Luggage Capacity

Look out for these points while deciding on which car to buy as it will help you purchase the perfect ride for you and your family. Check your vehicle thoroughly to understand all the safety features to have a smooth and enjoyable drive every day.

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