If you’re looking to buy a used car in the UAE, it’s important to understand the different car segments available. Each segment offers a unique set of features, sizes, and prices. In this guide, we will explore the various car segments available in the UAE, helping you make an informed decision about your next vehicle purchase. CarSwitch offers a wide selection of high-quality used cars that have undergone a rigorous inspection process to ensure safety and reliability. Our easy-to-use website and dedicated customer service team make the car-buying process stress-free. Whether you’re looking for a compact hatchback, a luxurious sedan, or a rugged SUV, we’ve got you covered.
A-Segment – Mini Compact
The A-segment is primarily for city driving, and mini-compact vehicles in this category are less than 4 meters in length. They are ideal for small families or students and have four seats, with passengers in the back sacrificing legroom. These cars are powerful enough to travel within cities and even on highways. Some popular A-segment cars in the UAE include Mini Cooper, KIA Picanto, and Chevrolet Spark
B-Segment – Sub Compact
Subcompact cars are a popular compromise between minivans and larger family vehicles. They have five seats, but full occupancy can be uncomfortable, especially on longer trips. Hatchback models have fold-down rear seats, making them useful for transporting small loads. Subcompact cars with saloon bodies have adequate boot space and are popular among young drivers or those on a tight budget. In UAE, this segment includes cars like Toyota Yaris, Nissan Sunny, Hyundai Accent, and KIA Rio.
C-Segment – Compact, Small Family Cars
Small family cars or compact cars are popular for commuters and families with up to two children. They typically have five seats and plenty of boot space. Hatchback models have folding rear seats, allowing you to transport average-sized pieces of furniture. The practicality and versatility of this segment is its main draws. Cars in this segment usually have engines starting at 1.4 liters, which is adequate for highway driving. Some popular C-segment cars in UAE are Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Elantra, and Toyota Corolla.
D-Segment – Large Family Car
D-segment vehicles fall somewhere between compact executive vehicles and large family vehicles. These vehicles are defined solely by their larger size and superior quality. They have premium exteriors and interiors, five seats with ample interior space, and powerful engines starting at 1.8 liters. Some popular D-segment cars in UAE are Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Audi A4, and Volkswagen Passat.
E-Segment – Mid-Size Executive Cars
Mid-size executive cars are practical on multiple levels and are ideal for families with up to three children. They will include more features as standard, but the operating costs will remain low. They are mostly available in saloon body styles, though estate models are also popular in Europe. Some popular E-segment cars in UAE are Audi A6, Lexus ES, and Ford Taurus.
F-Segment – Full-Size Luxury Cars
Full-size luxury cars are typically quite expensive and come with luxury interiors and optional extras. Depending on the model, motorway driving is usually done in the utmost comfort. Not all F-segment vehicles are suitable for families, as some of the most expensive models only have four seats. Some popular F-segment cars in UAE are Nissan Maxima, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS.
Read More: Why Are Luxury Cars Abandoned in Dubai?
M- Segment – MPVs
The M segment consists of multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) that are designed specifically for family and individual transportation. While small MPVs with five seats are available, they are not as common in the UAE. Mid-size MPVs typically have five to seven seats, while full-size MPVs can have up to nine seats. Some popular M segment cars in the UAE are Honda Odyssey and Toyota Previa
S-Segment- High-Performance Convertible and Coupe Cars
The S segment includes a variety of vehicle types, but they are all essentially sports cars. Cabriolets are four or five-seat convertibles, while roadsters are two-seat convertibles. While these cars are visually appealing, they tend to have less practicality due to the reduced boot space caused by the convertible top. They are also generally heavier, as the car structure must be reinforced to compensate for the lack of a roof.
Sports cars in the S segment are ideal for those without children or with older children who don’t require transportation. Some examples of S segment cars are BMW 4 Series (drop top), Audi TT (soft top), BMW Z4 (soft top), Mercedes SLK (soft top), Ford Mustang (soft top), and Chevrolet Camaro (soft top).
Read More: Top 5 Tips to Protect Your Car’s Convertible Top
J-Segment- SUVs
The J segment includes mini-SUVs, compact SUVs, mid-size SUVs, and full-size SUVs. These vehicles are popular for leisure activities and transporting equipment such as bicycles and water sports gear. Engine sizes range from 1.6 to 2.5 litters, and they are generally more affordable to operate than many people assume.=
Mid-size SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser are popular choices for families of up to seven people. These vehicles provide plenty of storage space and are well-suited for highway driving. However, they may be difficult to park in older parking lots, particularly in areas like Deira. Full-size SUVs like the Toyota Sequoia are suitable for large families, but they can be quite large. Examples of J segment cars in the UAE include Nissan Patrol, Range Rover, Ford EcoSport, and Toyota RAV 4
Read More: Top 5 Used SUVs to Buy in the UAE
