9 Affordable Cars That Don’t Compromise
There’s a fine line between affordable and cheap and we’ve put together a list of cars that belong to the right side. We’re talking smooth interiors, sleek exteriors, and the kind of driving experience that feels a lot more expensive than it is.
The car scene has been shifting fast. With new brands like BYD and Jetour joining the mix and big names like Volkswagen and MG Motor keeping things fresh, drivers now have options that combine comfort, design, and tech without the premium price tag. Whether you’re after a city-friendly compact, a stylish crossover, or something that still has enough muscle for a weekend road trip, there’s a surprisingly long list of rides that deliver.
Luxury is a feeling. The quiet hum when you start the engine, the way the seats hug you just right, or that soft and smooth feel when driving on the road. Here are nine of our favourite affordable and luxe cars that don’t compromise on comfort or performance.
BYD Song Plus (starting AED 119,900)
Starting around AED 119,900 for the base electric/hybrid versions and about AED 144,900 for top-spec trims.
If tech, space, and comfort matter to you more than badges, the BYD Song Plus nails it. Think big interior, modern infotainment, and a ride so smooth you sometimes forget you’re not in a “luxury” brand. It’s the crossover you buy when you want more than basic but still want value.
GWM Haval H9 (starting AED 110,000)
Base variants of the GWM Haval H9 start around AED 110,000 and go up to about AED 130,000 for higher trims.
If you need a bigger vehicle, one that feels commanding and comfortable, the H9 is it. It’s got the size, the ride height, and enough features that it no longer feels like you’re compromising. Great choice if you want something rugged but still refined.
Hongqi H5 (starting AED 85,000)
The Hongqi H5 starts around AED 81,900 for its basic model and climbs to about AED 107,000 for higher-spec variants.
What you get here is a luxury sedan aesthetic without luxury-level cost. Elegant lines, semi-mild-hybrid tech (hello fuel efficiency), spacious cabin. Drives smooth, rides quiet, looks premium. For someone wanting sedan class but not sedan price, this is a strong contender.
JAECOO J5 (starting AED 64,900)
The J5 is Jaecoo’s entry-level compact SUV. It’s got a modern interior, tech you’d expect in pricier models (think blind-spot detection, multiple drive modes, nice infotainment), and enough style to not feel like you’re driving “budget.” For that starting price, it offers one of the best value propositions if you want luxe vibes without the luxe sticker.
Jetour Dashing (starting AED 79,000)
The Jetour Dashing 1.6L FWD model is priced around AED 79,000.
For under the price range, you get bigger vibes than most entry-level SUVs. It leans into presence—sharp exterior, decent tech, roomy interior. If you want luxe looks without the luxury markups, this one does the job well.
Jetour T1 (starting AED 109,000)
The Jetour T1 in its standard trims is roughly AED 109,000–112,000.
What makes this one shine is how well it balances modern tech with comfort. The features in mid-trim levels are surprisingly robust. If crossover size and tech matter, the T1 becomes really tempting.
MG HS Hybrid + (starting AED 96,700)
The MG HS Hybrid + brings that luxe crossover feel with eco credentials. It combines a 1.5-litre turbo engine with an electric motor, offering smooth acceleration and impressive fuel economy. The interior is surprisingly premium, with a digital cockpit, ambient lighting, and a quiet drive that feels way beyond its price range.
MG7 (starting AED 95,500)
The MG7 is MG’s nod to sleek sedans with character. Sharp lines, tech-forward interior, and enough premium touches to make it feel classy without the class price tag. The large curved display and driver-assist tech give it a futuristic edge, making it one of the most visually and technologically impressive options in its range.
VW T-Roc (starting AED 96,800)
This compact crossover is proof that you can get German engineering without entering prestige price zones. Stylish details, solid build, and that “feel of quality” whenever you open a door or start the engine. Great for city driving with enough flair to make late-night highway drives feel premium.
