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If you’ve ever spent time in traffic or parked at a busy mall in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, you’ve likely noticed a pattern: certain car models just keep showing up. They’re everywhere. Why? Because they’ve earned their place as the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia.
But popularity doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of long-term reliability, strong resale value, fuel efficiency, and compatibility with the Saudi lifestyle and climate. In this article, we’re not just listing cars – we’re giving you a complete walkthrough on the top 10 most popular cars in Saudi Arabia based on market trends, public demand, and real user preferences.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser
Why it’s popular:
There’s a reason the Land Cruiser is often called the most popular car in Saudi Arabia among off-road enthusiasts, families, and even VIPs. It’s reliable, durable, and powerful.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo / 4.0L V6 (depends on variant)
- Horsepower: 409 hp (for the V6 twin-turbo)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic.
- Fuel economy: Around 9.3 km/l (V6)
What makes it a top choice:
- Legendary off-road performance for desert trips.
- Resale value is extremely high.
- Long-lasting build, suitable for harsh weather and terrain.
- Perfect for large families and long-distance driving.
Whether it’s for a business owner in Riyadh or a family in Tabuk, the Land Cruiser consistently ranks as the most popular car in Saudi Arabia for its all-around capabilities.
2. Toyota Camry
If the Land Cruiser is the king of off-road, the Camry is the king of the city. For years, it’s been the go-to sedan for professionals, families, and commuters.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder / 3.5L V6 (hybrid options available)
- Horsepower: 204 hp (4-cylinder)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic or E-CVT for hybrids
- Fuel economy: Up to 19.6 km/l (hybrid)
What makes it a top choice:
- Low maintenance cost and fuel efficiency.
- Comfortable for daily driving, even on long commutes.
- Hybrid option perfect for eco-conscious users.
- Trusted brand reputation.
Among the sedans, the Camry remains a strong contender for the most popular car in Saudi Arabia for people looking for a balance between cost, comfort, and resale.
3. Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai has made massive strides in quality and design, and the Elantra stands as one of its most successful models in the Kingdom.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 1.6L or 2.0L 4-cylinder.
- Horsepower: Around 123 – 147 hp.
- Transmission: CVT or 6-speed automatic.
- Fuel economy: Up to 18.9 km/l.
Why Saudis are buying it:
- Budget-friendly yet packed with tech.
- Sleek design with a modern dashboard.
- Reliable performance for city driving.
- Popular among university students and young professionals.
The Elantra may not be as luxurious as others, but it’s one of the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia in terms of value for money and practicality.
4. Toyota Hilux
If you’re driving through construction zones, farms, or even the outskirts of cities, the Hilux is a common sight and with good reason.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 2.4L / 2.7L / 4.0L (diesel and petrol options)
- Horsepower: Up to 235 hp
- Transmission: 5-speed or 6-speed manual/automatic
- Fuel economy: 11–13 km/l depending on configuration
What makes it a hit:
- Durable for heavy-duty tasks.
- Trusted by businesses and individuals alike.
- Parts are widely available, and servicing is easy.
- Strong 4×4 capabilities for rural or rugged areas.
No list of the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia would be complete without the Toyota Hilux—because it gets the job done, every time.
5. Nissan Patrol
Nissan Patrol is often seen as the Land Cruiser’s main rival, offering similar power with a more luxurious twist.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 4.0L V6 or 5.6L V8
- Horsepower: Up to 400 hp (V8)
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Fuel economy: 8–9 km/l (V8)
Why it earns its place:
- Elegant exterior with a bold road presence.
- Smooth highway performance and luxury interior.
- High-end trims include leather, BOSE sound system, and off-road modes.
- Preferred by high-income families and officials.
For those who want strength without sacrificing comfort, the Patrol is often the most popular car in Saudi Arabia in the luxury SUV segment.
6. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has proven itself over decades as a safe, comfortable, and durable sedan. In Saudi Arabia, it continues to win buyers who value quality, practicality, and a bit of sporty performance.
Key Specifications:
- Engines Available: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, and 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 192 hp (1.5L) / 252 hp (2.0L)
- Transmission: CVT (1.5L) or 10-speed automatic (2.0L)
- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
- Fuel Economy: 17–18.5 km/l (1.5L) / 13.5–15 km/l (2.0L)
- Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Why drivers love it:
The Accord offers a perfect mix of comfort and refinement. It handles smoothly on highways, has a quiet cabin, and offers strong acceleration (especially with the 2.0L engine). It’s also easy to maintain, and known to run well past 300,000 km if serviced regularly.
Whether you’re a corporate user or a family driver, the Accord is often considered a smart, long-term investment. Among mid-size sedans, it’s undeniably one of the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia for those who want confidence and comfort in a single package.
7. Kia Sportage
Why it’s popular:
The latest generation of the Kia Sportage introduced a futuristic design, bold interior, and improved performance. It’s a strong contender in the compact SUV market and a top choice among younger buyers in urban Saudi areas.
Key Specifications:
- Engines: 2.0L 4-cylinder, 1.6L turbo, and hybrid options
- Horsepower: 177–187 hp
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic, or dual-clutch for turbo models
- Fuel Economy: 14–17 km/l
- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
- Infotainment: 12.3-inch dual screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Why it works for Saudi lifestyles:
It’s compact enough for city use, with elevated seating and decent off-road capability for light desert or gravel use. The fuel efficiency is impressive, and the tech-filled interior appeals to digital-savvy drivers.
Stylish, smart, and surprisingly capable, the Sportage is becoming one of the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia among young professionals and small families seeking a modern crossover.
8. Chevrolet Tahoe
Known for its massive size and commanding presence, the Tahoe blends utility with upscale features, making it a favorite among large families, executives, and rural users.
Key Specifications:
- Engines: 5.3L V8 or 6.2L V8
- Horsepower: 355 hp (5.3L) / 420 hp (6.2L)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel or 4WD
- Fuel Economy: 7.5–8.5 km/l
- Seating: Up to 8 passengers
- Interior Highlights: Tri-zone climate, leather seating, rear-seat entertainment system
Why people in Saudi choose it:
Its high ground clearance and off-road ability make it ideal for rural and desert areas. Meanwhile, the luxury-grade interior and strong safety systems make it family-friendly and comfortable on long trips.
If size, strength, and prestige are your priorities, the Tahoe holds its place as one of the most popular cars in Saudi Arabia in the full-size SUV category.
9. Nissan Sunny
The Sunny has been a staple in Saudi Arabia for years, especially among first-time car owners, students, and budget-focused drivers.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 99–118 hp
- Transmission: CVT or 5-speed manual
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 19.1 km/l
- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive
- Interior: Fabric seats, manual or automatic AC, basic infotainment (7-inch touchscreen)
- Cargo Volume: 490 liters
- Safety Features: ABS, dual airbags, parking sensors on higher trims
Why it’s a great choice:
The Sunny is extremely affordable, easy to service, and great on fuel. It’s often used as a fleet vehicle by companies, which adds to its visibility in the market.
10. Mitsubishi Pajero
Though no longer in production globally, the Pajero remains in high demand in the used car market in Saudi Arabia due to its unmatched off-road capabilities and straightforward mechanical reliability.
Key Specifications:
- Engines: 3.5L V6 or 3.8L V6
- Horsepower: 184–250 hp
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drive Type: 4WD with locking center differential
- Fuel Economy: 8–10 km/l
- Interior: Leather seats (in higher trims), dual AC, analog gauges, robust dash layout.
Why people still seek it out:
It’s known for lasting well over 400,000 km with basic maintenance. The Pajero is particularly favored by drivers who spend time in remote or undeveloped areas.
Where Can You Buy These Cars Used in Saudi Arabia?
Whether you’re looking for a brand-new SUV or a certified used sedan, platforms like Soum are making the process easier than ever.
Why buy through Soum?
- Fully inspected used cars with condition reports.
- Transparent pricing and financing options.
- Doorstep delivery across Saudi Arabia.
- Trusted network of sellers and after-sale support.
If you’re searching for the most popular car in Saudi Arabia in excellent condition, with peace of mind and aftercare, Soum should be your first stop. Start your search today with confidence and let Soum help you find the right car, at the right price, with the right protection.
FAQs
1. What is the most popular car in Saudi Arabia right now?
The Toyota Land Cruiser continues to be the most popular car in Saudi Arabia, thanks to its durability, off-road capability, and long-term resale value. It’s trusted across urban and rural regions alike.
2. Are large SUVs a better choice for Saudi Arabia?
Yes, especially for long-distance travel, desert terrain, or larger families. SUVs like the Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and Chevrolet Tahoe are preferred for their power and comfort.
3. Is it a good idea to buy a used car in Saudi Arabia?
Absolutely, especially when bought from trusted platforms like Soum, which provide inspected vehicles, transparent reports, and warranty options for peace of mind.
4. Which cars are best suited for new drivers or students?
Compact and fuel-efficient models like the Nissan Sunny, Hyundai Elantra, or Kia Cerato are great options. They’re easy to drive, affordable, and inexpensive to maintain.
5. How do I choose between an SUV and a sedan?
Consider your lifestyle. If you need space, off-road capability, or plan to travel often, go for an SUV. For daily city driving and better fuel economy, a sedan is the smarter choice.