Top 6 MPVs to Buy in UAE for 2025

The top 6 MPVs to buy in UAE for 2025 combine practicality, comfort, and modern design for families and businesses alike. Models like the Kia CarnivalBahrain Kia CarnivalEgypt Kia CarnivalKSA Kia CarnivalKuwait Kia CarnivalOman Kia CarnivalQatar Kia CarnivalUAE Kia Carnival, Toyota InnovaUAE Toyota InnovaKSA Toyota InnovaKuwait Toyota InnovaQatar Toyota InnovaBahrain Toyota InnovaOman Toyota Innova Hycross, and Hyundai StariaUAE Hyundai StariaKSA Hyundai StariaBahrain Hyundai StariaEgypt Hyundai StariaOman Hyundai StariaQatar Hyundai Staria offer excellent space, advanced tech, and dependable performance—ideal for anyone seeking versatility and long-term value.

The modern MPV is no longer the uninspired "box on wheels" of the past. Today's contenders offer SUV-like styling, cutting-edge technology, and levels of luxury that can rival premium sedans. They are the unsung heroes of the automotive world, designed from the inside out with one primary goal: to move people and their belongings in maximum comfort and with minimum fuss. From the scorching summer heat to the occasional long-distance trek between emirates, a good MPV needs to be more than just spacious—it needs to be a reliable, comfortable, and efficient family sanctuary. Let's dive deep into the best options the UAE market has to offer for 2025.

Summary of the Top 6 MPVs to Buy in UAE for 2025

For those who want a quick overview, here's a high-level comparison of our top contenders. This table will help you shortlist your options before we dive into the detailed analysis of each model.

Kia Carnival

Kia has rebranded the Carnival as a "Grand Utility Vehicle," and for good reason. It masterfully blends the practicality of an MPV with the bold, desirable styling of a modern SUV. For many families in the UAE, the Carnival hits the absolute sweet spot, offering style, substance, and a near-premium experience without the German price tag. It’s a common sight on Sheikh Zayed Road, and its popularity is a testament to its brilliant execution.

The upcoming 2025 model, featuring a significant facelift with Kia's latest "Opposites United" design language, is set to be even more desirable. It adopts the sharp, vertical headlamps seen on the EV9 and Telluride, giving it an aggressive and upscale presence that will undoubtedly turn heads at the Dubai Mall valet.

In-Depth Analysis

Under the bonnet, the Carnival continues to rely on the tried-and-tested 3.5-litre V6 engine, a perfect match for the demands of UAE driving. It provides effortless acceleration for highway merging and maintains composure even when fully loaded with family and luggage for a weekend trip to Ras Al Khaimah. The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and decisive, contributing to a refined driving experience.

Where the Carnival truly shines is its interior. Step inside, and you're greeted by a cabin that feels more like a mobile lounge than a family hauler. Top-tier trims offer the incredible "VIP Lounge Seats" in the second row—fully reclinable captain's chairs with heating, ventilation, and a leg rest. They are the ultimate solution for keeping passengers comfortable on long journeys. The power-sliding doors are a godsend in tight parking spots, preventing door dings and making it easy for kids to hop in and out.

From a driver's perspective, the cockpit is modern and ergonomic, with a large digital instrument cluster and a widescreen infotainment system that are both intuitive and packed with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The powerful multi-zone climate control is a non-negotiable feature for the region, and the Carnival's system is more than capable of keeping the large cabin icy cold during a 45°C August afternoon.

Ownership and Value: As a product from Al Majid Motors, Kia's official distributor in the UAE, the Carnival benefits from a solid service network. Maintenance costs are reasonable for its class, and Kia's warranty provides excellent peace of mind. Resale value for the Carnival is surprisingly strong, as its desirability and feature set make it a sought-after model in the used car market in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It’s a smart purchase that balances emotional appeal with rational considerations.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 140,000 - 175,000

• Engine: 3.5L V6 Petrol

• Horsepower: ~272 hp

• Torque: ~331 Nm

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~8.5 seconds

• Max Speed: ~210 km/h

• Seats: 7 or 8

• Powertrain: 8-speed Automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 11.0 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: ~1,139 litres (behind 2nd row), ~2,460 litres (behind 1st row)

Toyota Innova Hycross

For decades, the Toyota badge in the Middle East has been synonymous with three words: reliability, durability, and resale value. The all-new Toyota Innova Hycross takes that bulletproof reputation and adds a crucial fourth element: incredible fuel efficiency. By introducing its proven hybrid technology to the MPV segment, Toyota has created what might just be the most sensible family car you can buy in the UAE today.

The Innova Hycross is a complete departure from its predecessor. Built on a modern car-like TNGA platform (the same family as the Camry and RAV4), it offers a more comfortable ride, better handling, and a far more premium interior. It’s the pragmatic, intelligent choice for families who track their monthly expenses and value long-term, trouble-free ownership above all else.

In-Depth Analysis

The star of the show is, without a doubt, the 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain. This system is a game-changer for running costs in the UAE. With petrol prices being a more significant consideration than ever, achieving a real-world fuel economy of around 5.0 L/100km in a large 8-seater vehicle is simply astonishing. This translates to fewer weekly visits to the ADNOC or ENOC station and substantial savings over the vehicle's lifespan. The e-CVT transmission is seamless, and the electric motor provides instant torque for zippy acceleration in city traffic, making it feel quicker off the line than its numbers suggest.

Inside, the Innova Hycross feels robust and thoughtfully designed. While it may not have the outright flash of the Carnival, the materials are high-quality and built to withstand the rigours of family life. Top trims come with luxurious touches like ventilated front seats and second-row captain's chairs with ottoman leg rests, providing a business-class experience. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space, and the high seating position gives a commanding view of the road, a feature many SUV owners appreciate.

The practicalities are all there: ample storage cubbies, USB ports in all three rows, and a robust air conditioning system with rear vents to ensure everyone stays cool. The third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter journeys, making it a true 7 or 8-seater.

Ownership and Value: Being an Al-Futtaim Toyota product is perhaps the Innova's biggest trump card. You get access to an unparalleled service network across the UAE, affordable maintenance, and a parts supply chain that is second to none. But the real magic happens when it's time to sell. The Innova Hycross is predicted to have one of the strongest resale values of any vehicle in its class, if not the entire market. The combination of the Toyota badge and the hybrid powertrain makes it a future-proof investment.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 125,000 - 145,000

• Engine: 2.0L 4-Cylinder with Toyota Hybrid System

• Horsepower (Combined): ~184 hp

• Torque: ~188 Nm (Engine) + 206 Nm (Motor)

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~9.5 seconds

• Max Speed: ~180 km/h

• Seats: 7 or 8

• Powertrain: e-CVT

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 5.0 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: ~300 litres (behind 3rd row), ~991 litres (behind 2nd row)

Hyundai Staria

If you want to make a statement, look no further than the Hyundai Staria. With its futuristic, minimalist design, the Staria looks like it drove straight off the set of a sci-fi movie. The single, horizontal LED light bar at the front and the vast, panoramic side windows create an aesthetic that is utterly unique on UAE roads. But the Staria is far more than just a design exercise; it is arguably the most spacious and airy MPV in its class.

The Staria is for the family or business that dares to be different. It rejects the conventional MPV silhouette in favour of something bold and memorable. This design-first approach is backed by an interior that prioritizes visibility and a sense of openness, making every journey feel a little more special.

In-Depth Analysis

The Staria's most compelling feature is its incredible interior volume, made possible by its van-based origins. The low beltline and massive windows don't just look cool; they create an unparalleled sense of space and offer passengers fantastic views, whether you're cruising down Jumeirah Beach Road or exploring the Hajar mountains. This makes it an excellent choice for families with kids who are prone to feeling cooped up.

Hyundai offers the Staria in various seating configurations in the UAE, including 7-seater luxury versions and highly practical 9-seater and even 11-seater layouts. The 9-seater, in particular, is a unique selling proposition, offering an extra seat over most rivals without compromising comfort, making it perfect for larger families or for those who frequently travel with friends.

The premium variants of the Staria are exceptionally well-appointed, featuring nappa leather, a digital cockpit, a large central touchscreen, and second-row "Premium Relaxation Seats" that can recline and have their own dedicated controls. Performance is handled by the same robust 3.5-litre V6 found in other Hyundai and Kia models, providing more than enough power to move this large vehicle with authority.

Ownership and Value: Sold and serviced by Juma Al Majid Establishment in the UAE, the Staria benefits from Hyundai's strong and growing reputation for quality and reliability. While its futuristic design might be more polarizing than a Carnival's, it has carved out a strong niche. Resale value is expected to be solid, especially for the high-demand 9-seater and premium versions. It’s a fantastic alternative to the Kia Carnival, appealing to those who prioritize maximum space and standout design.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 130,000 - 180,000

• Engine: 3.5L V6 Petrol

• Horsepower: ~272 hp

• Torque: ~331 Nm

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~8.9 seconds

• Max Speed: ~210 km/h

• Seats: 7, 9, or 11

• Powertrain: 8-speed Automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 11.5 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: ~831 litres (varies by seating config), vast with seats folded/removed

GAC M8

The GAC M8 is the undisputed king of attainable luxury in the MPV segment. This vehicle is a direct challenge to the notion that you need to spend Lexus or Mercedes money to get a true first-class travel experience. GAC, distributed by Gargash in the UAE, has been rapidly gaining market share by offering vehicles with premium build quality, cutting-edge technology, and opulent features at an incredibly competitive price point. The M8 is their flagship people-mover, and it is seriously impressive.

From the moment you lay eyes on its enormous, chrome-laden "Soaring Wings 2.0" grille, the M8 signals its intent. It’s designed to look expensive and imposing, and it succeeds. But the real story begins when you open the power-sliding rear doors.

In-Depth Analysis

The interior of the GAC M8 is its pièce de résistance. The second-row captain's chairs are nothing short of thrones. They are wider, more cushioned, and offer more features than almost any rival, regardless of price. We're talking heating, ventilation, multi-mode massages, power-adjustable leg rests, and individual touch-screen controls—features typically reserved for vehicles costing twice as much. This makes the M8 an outstanding choice for executive transport, high-end hotel shuttles, or families who want to give their kids the ultimate VIP treatment.

The rest of the cabin follows suit, with soft-touch materials, intricate ambient lighting, a massive central infotainment screen, and a premium Yamaha sound system. The attention to detail is remarkable. Powering the M8 is a modern 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides a great balance of brisk performance and reasonable fuel economy, feeling more responsive in city driving than some of the larger, naturally-aspirated V6s.

Ownership and Value: The primary question for buyers in the UAE is about brand perception and long-term value. GAC is working hard to build trust, and vehicles like the M8 are their best ambassadors. Gargash offers competitive warranty packages and a growing service network. While the resale value of a GAC won't yet match that of a Toyota, the initial saving is immense. You are getting a level of luxury and features that would cost you well over AED 250,000 from a Japanese or German brand. For the savvy buyer focused on the ownership experience rather than the badge, the M8 presents a value proposition that is almost impossible to ignore.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 150,000 - 190,000

• Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder

• Horsepower: ~248 hp

• Torque: ~400 Nm

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~9.0 seconds

• Max Speed: ~200 km/h

• Seats: 7

• Powertrain: 8-speed Automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 8.5 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: ~516 litres (behind 3rd row)

Mitsubishi Xpander

In a market filled with increasingly large and expensive vehicles, the Mitsubishi Xpander stands out for its honest, back-to-basics approach. It offers the core promise of an MPV—seating for seven—at a price point that is accessible to almost everyone. It’s the perfect choice for budget-conscious families, as a reliable second car for school runs, or for ride-sharing drivers who need space and efficiency without a hefty financial commitment.

Distributed by the reputable Al Habtoor Motors, the Xpander leverages Mitsubishi's legacy of building tough, no-nonsense vehicles like the Pajero and Lancer. It features a bold "Dynamic Shield" front-end design and SUV-like ground clearance, giving it a rugged look that appeals to UAE buyers.

In-Depth Analysis

The Xpander’s primary appeal is its incredible value. For the price of a well-equipped compact sedan, you get a versatile three-row vehicle. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine is modest in its power output, but it’s engineered for fuel efficiency and reliability. Around town, it’s perfectly adequate, and on the highway, it will cruise comfortably, though it may require some planning for overtakes when fully loaded. Its excellent fuel economy means running costs are kept to an absolute minimum.

Inside, the focus is on durability and practicality. The plastics are hard-wearing, the seats are comfortable, and the layout is simple and intuitive. Don't expect luxury, but do expect everything to work, every time. The air conditioning is powerful, the infotainment system covers the basics, and there are clever storage solutions throughout the cabin. The third row is best suited for children or for adults on short trips, which is perfectly acceptable for its primary use case. The seats can be folded completely flat, creating a surprisingly large and useful cargo area for those weekend trips to IKEA or Carrefour.

Ownership and Value: This is where the Xpander truly excels. Its low purchase price, combined with Mitsubishi's reputation for mechanical simplicity and the backing of Al Habtoor Motors, makes it a very low-risk purchase. Maintenance is cheap, parts are readily available, and its simple engineering means fewer things can go wrong. Because of its affordability and utility, it holds its value reasonably well in the used car market, as there is always demand for reliable, cheap-to-run family transport in the UAE. It’s the smart, sensible choice for those who need space on a budget.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 70,000 - 85,000

• Engine: 1.5L 4-Cylinder Petrol

• Horsepower: ~103 hp

• Torque: ~141 Nm

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~13.5 seconds

• Max Speed: ~170 km/h

• Seats: 7

• Powertrain: 4-speed Automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 7.0 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: Generous flat-floor space with 2nd and 3rd rows folded

Maxus G10

The Maxus G10 is the undisputed champion of space and utility. Born from the commercial vehicle expertise of SAIC (one of China's largest automakers), the G10 is less of a stylish MPV and more of a highly capable passenger van. It's for the buyer whose needs are simple: move the maximum number of people or the largest amount of cargo for the lowest possible cost.

Distributed in the UAE by Al Naboodah Automobiles, Maxus has built a strong reputation in the commercial sector, and the G10 brings that workhorse DNA to the passenger market. It’s a pragmatic, no-frills solution that prioritizes function over form, making it an ideal choice for large families, transport businesses, or hotel shuttle services.

In-Depth Analysis

The G10’s main selling point is its sheer size. It’s available in both 7 and 9-seater configurations, and unlike some rivals where the third row is an afterthought, the G10 offers genuine, adult-sized space in all positions. The high roofline and boxy shape mean headroom is never an issue, and even with all seats in place, there is a usable amount of luggage space. This makes it one of the few vehicles in its price range that can comfortably transport nine adults and their belongings.

Under the hood lies a potent 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that provides surprisingly strong performance, easily getting the large G10 up to highway speeds even with a full load. Unusually for this class, the G10 uses a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout, a design often favoured for its robustness when carrying heavy loads. The ride is comfortable, though it can feel a bit more "van-like" and less refined than a unibody MPV like the Carnival, which is a fair trade-off for its enhanced capacity and durability.

The interior is functional and straightforward. The materials are chosen for longevity rather than luxury, and the controls are simple and easy to use. It comes with the essentials, including front and rear air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and power-sliding doors on higher trims.

Ownership and Value: The Maxus G10 represents a massive value proposition. It offers the space and seating capacity of vehicles that cost significantly more. For a business, the low acquisition cost and high capacity can translate directly to a healthier bottom line. For a large family, it means not having to take two cars. Al Naboodah provides a solid service and support network in the UAE. While its resale value may not be as high as its Japanese counterparts, the initial purchase price is so competitive that the overall cost of ownership remains incredibly low. It is the ultimate tool for moving people.

Key Specifications (2025 Estimates)

• Price: AED 85,000 - 110,000

• Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder

• Horsepower: ~221 hp

• Torque: ~350 Nm

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~10.5 seconds

• Max Speed: ~190 km/h

• Seats: 7 or 9

• Powertrain: 6-speed Automatic

• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 10.0 L/100km

• Cargo/Boot Space: Cavernous, especially in 7-seat configuration or with seats removed

Making the Right Choice: Which 2025 MPV is Your Perfect Match?

Choosing the right MPV for your life in the UAE comes down to identifying your priorities. The 2025 market is wonderfully diverse, offering a perfect fit for nearly every need and budget.

• Go for the Kia Carnival if you want a stylish, feature-packed family vehicle that feels premium and drives beautifully.

• Choose the Toyota Innova Hycross for unmatched fuel efficiency, legendary reliability, and the peace of mind that comes with iron-clad resale value.

• Opt for the Hyundai Staria if you crave standout design, need class-leading interior space, and want the flexibility of a 9-seater layout.

• Consider the GAC M8 if your top priority is experiencing business-class luxury and cutting-edge features for an unbeatable price.

• Buy the Mitsubishi Xpander if you're on a budget and need a simple, reliable, and incredibly affordable 7-seater for daily duties.

• Select the Maxus G10 when your primary mission is to transport the maximum number of people comfortably and affordably.

Our final piece of advice is to get behind the wheel. Specifications and reviews are crucial, but a test drive is the only way to truly understand how a vehicle feels and fits your family's needs. Consider your daily commute, typical passenger load, and long-term running costs. By balancing these factors, you'll be sure to find the perfect MPV to conquer the roads of the UAE in 2025 and beyond.