- Toyota Leads the Market Despite a Decline
- Nissan Holds Second Place Despite Sharp Decline
- Mitsubishi Maintains Steady Presence
- MG Proves Its Strength in the Market
- JETOUR Moves Closer to the Big League
- Kia Sees Modest Growth Amid Fierce Competition
- Ford Declines but Maintains Its Presence
- Suzuki Succeeds in Attracting a New Segment
- BMW Maintains Luxury Appeal Despite the Drop
- Hyundai Drops to Tenth Place
- Chinese Brands Are Rising Fast: Is a Major Shift Underway?
The UAE car market is undergoing noticeable shifts in buying trends, according to April 2025 sales data from Cartea. The latest rankings reveal surprising changes among the top selling automotive brands. While Japanese automakers continue to dominate, Chinese brands like MG and JETOUR are gaining ground with growing confidence, raising questions about whether Korean manufacturers can maintain their position. This report highlights the top 10 best selling car brands in the UAE for the month and explores what the numbers reveal about consumer preferences.
Toyota Leads the Market Despite a Decline
Toyota remains the top selling brand in the UAE with 6,436 units sold in April, despite a 5.38 percent drop compared to the previous month. This strong performance reflects the long standing trust the Japanese brand has built since its founding in 1937. Popular models like the Corolla, Camry, and RAV4 continue to lead consumer choices thanks to their reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the Prius appeals to environmentally conscious drivers with its pioneering hybrid technology and clean energy performance.
Nissan Holds Second Place Despite Sharp Decline
Nissan recorded the second highest sales in April with 3,051 vehicles sold, despite a significant 29.03 percent drop. The brand remains a key player in the UAE market thanks to its diverse lineup, including the Altima, Maxima, Rogue, and the electric Leaf. Nissan continues to appeal to families by offering a balanced mix of value, comfort, and safety across its range.
Mitsubishi Maintains Steady Presence
Mitsubishi secured third place with 1,909 vehicles sold, despite a 13.89 percent decline. The Japanese brand stands out for its long standing history of over a century and its versatile offerings such as the family friendly Outlander, the rugged Pajero for off road enthusiasts, and the compact, budget friendly Mirage. This variety makes Mitsubishi a dependable choice for a wide range of customers.
MG Proves Its Strength in the Market
MG delivered 1,351 vehicles in April, recording only a slight dip of 1.17%, reinforcing its solid position among the top brands. Known for blending modern design with affordability, MG continues to attract buyers through models like the ZS and MG6. Meanwhile, the MG5 EV appeals to drivers exploring electric mobility. This mix makes MG a popular choice among young professionals and families seeking a well rounded car at a reasonable price.
JETOUR Moves Closer to the Big League
With 1,186 units sold, JETOUR continues to grow its footprint in the UAE market, despite a 7.27% decline. Under the Chery umbrella, the brand offers models such as the X70 and X95, known for their upscale styling and tech focused interiors. JETOUR has become an attractive option for youth and families looking for a sleek yet budget friendly SUV with premium appeal.
Kia Sees Modest Growth Amid Fierce Competition
Kia posted a mild 1.90% growth in sales, delivering 1,070 vehicles and securing sixth place in the rankings. The Korean brand remains popular with models like the K5, Sportage, and Sorento, while the uniquely designed Soul continues to turn heads. However, Kia now faces intensified pressure from Chinese rivals offering similar features and technology at more competitive prices.
Ford Declines but Maintains Its Presence
Ford recorded 1,065 units sold in April, marking a 12.35 percent drop and placing it in seventh position. Despite its longstanding legacy dating back to 1903, growing competition and a market shift toward more economical cars have impacted its sales. Still, models like the F-150, Mustang, and Explorer continue to enjoy a loyal following thanks to their performance and durability.
Suzuki Succeeds in Attracting a New Segment
Suzuki posted a positive performance with a 4.48 percent sales increase, reaching 909 units. The brand remains a favorite among young drivers and small families thanks to budget friendly models like the Swift, Vitara, and Jimny. These vehicles combine efficiency and practicality, making them a smart everyday choice.
BMW Maintains Luxury Appeal Despite the Drop
BMW saw a significant 24.85 percent decline in April, selling 889 units, yet it continues to be a top pick for luxury car enthusiasts. Models like the X5, X7, and M Series remain popular with drivers seeking athletic performance and premium styling. However, the brand now faces growing competition from Chinese manufacturers offering similar features at lower prices.
Hyundai Drops to Tenth Place
Hyundai closed the list with 806 units sold, marking a decline of 11.04 percent. This dip highlights the growing challenges the Korean brand faces in the UAE market. Still, models like the Elantra, Tucson, and Santa Fe remain among the most favored by a wide range of buyers. Hyundai has also begun to attract eco conscious drivers through its Ioniq and Kona EV models.
Chinese Brands Are Rising Fast: Is a Major Shift Underway?
These figures point to a clear shift in the market, where brand name alone is no longer enough to maintain dominance. Buyers are now looking for a well rounded value package that includes design, technology, warranty, and pricing. MG and JETOUR, with their calculated strategies, appear well positioned to close the gap with Korean brands and possibly overtake them soon, especially if the value proposition continues to tilt in favor of the Chinese automakers.
