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New Vantage Roadster: Engineered for Real Drivers, Designed for Open Air Thrills

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top-angle front-three-quarter shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Aston Martin has introduced the new Vantage Roadster, a convertible stablemate of the world-beating Vantage Coupe. Launched in 2024, the new Vantage continued the marque’s shift in sector defining luxury and dynamic credentials, far exceeding the capabilities and engagement of any Vantage before. Now, Vantage Roadster arrives to enhance the real driving experience even further.

Powered by the Aston Martin 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 665PS/800Nm, Vantage Roadster brings all the class leading performance, dynamic sensations and visual excitement of the coupe, with an additional dimension of top-down freedom and thrills for those addicted to open air motoring. Vantage Roadster brings a new level of emotion to the already unforgettable driving experience, broadening still the phenomenal appeal of this quintessential, yet state-of-the-art British sports car.

New Vantage Roadster has been designed to offer all the style, sense of freedom and adventure for which convertibles are known, but without the limitations traditionally inherent in their design. As beautiful as its hard top companion, with minimal weight increase and the fastest operating fully automatic roof on the market, Vantage Roadster is a convertible without compromise and a worthy new member of the Vantage family.

It continues a tradition of open top Aston Martin Vantage models that date back 75 years to the launch of the Vantage engine upgrade pack for the DB2 (available both as a coupe – known as a saloon – and convertible – known as drophead coupe) in 1950, which featured larger carburettors and a higher compression ratio to raise power for the 2.6-litre twin cam engine from 105bhp to a heady 125bhp.

This year, Aston Martin is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 2005 introduction of the V8 Vantage. The first Gaydon-built ‘modern’ Aston Martin to use the name and the first Vantage to be a distinct model in its own right, rather than a derivative, with its own Roadster version arriving just one year later.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Hallmark, said: “The technical and dynamic capability of New Vantage delivered outstanding performance; far beyond any other preceding Vantage and it is now seen as a true class leading sports car. Vantage Roadster was no different feat in that it is a fully reinvented experience, with all the benefits of the Coupe and no compromise to refinement or performance through meticulous work by our engineering and dynamics teams. Vantage Roadster delivers a world-class roof-down driving experience like no other.”

Engineering

Key to Vantage Roadster’s ability to retain the crucial dynamic attributes of Vantage Coupe is that both cars were designed and engineered in parallel rather than in sequence, the Roadster therefore being a fully developed model in its own right, allowing the team to implement features and attributes that result in zero compromises to performance, ride and handling and excessive additional weight.

Compared to the previous Vantage Roadster, Aston Martin’s bespoke 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine has seen power and torque rise by an unprecedented 155PS and 115Nm thanks to larger turbochargers, revised camshaft profiles and an optimised compression ratio. With a total of 665PS and an incredible 800Nm of torque running through an eight-speed paddle-shift transmission to an electronically controlled limited slip differential driving the rear wheels alone, Vantage Roadster combines explosive performance (0-60mph in 3.5seconds, top speed 202mph) and state-of-the-art technology within the classic, front engine, rear-wheel drive configuration adored by those who simply love to drive. With thanks to a retractable roof, even more of the inimitable V8 thunder can be heard by occupants, emanating from under Vantage’s dramatically sloping bonnet and exhaust tail pipes.

Thanks to its ultra-stiff yet lightweight aluminium structure, composite body panels and 49:51 front to rear weight distribution, Vantage Roadster provides the ideal platform for the suspension to act upon. Featuring race-inspired unequal length double wishbones at the front, a multi-link rear axle, coil springs and Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers (with a bespoke tune), along with a non-isolated steering column, Vantage Roadster provides the precision, balance, poise and, above all, the confidence that are the unmistakable hallmarks of the truly great high performance driver’s car.

front-angle shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster parked outdoors

Brake discs measuring 410mm at the front (with carbon ceramic brakes) clamped by six piston monoblock calipers ensure Vantage Roadster can shed speed even more rapidly than it is gained – and do so repeatedly. The necessary grip is provided by bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres, specially developed by Michelin and tuned by Aston Martin with a compound tailored to the specific requirements of the Vantage. These provide not just superlative grip in both dry and wet conditions but also outstanding steering feel and progressive breakaway characteristics.

All of this hardware is supported by an electronic architecture using six axis sensors, capable of creating an astonishingly detailed overview of precisely how the car is behaving, allowing the ESP system to adopt optimal settings both for the road conditions and the style in which the car is being driven. In addition, Vantage Roadster carries over the innovative Advanced Traction Control system from the Vantage Coupe, allowing the driver to choose one of eight settings for the traction control; the default setting of five is optimised for achieving the fastest, cleanest laps. The lower the number the greater the level of intervention, providing an additional level of reassurance and safety in, for example, adverse weather conditions, while drivers wishing to hone their skills most likely on track have the option to turn traction control off and experience the car free of any electronic influence.

From the outset several measures were designed into the structure of Vantage Roadster to ensure the Vantage spirit, astonishing ability and love of the open road were passed across from Coupe to Roadster in undiluted form. To do this, two primary goals, traditionally seen as diametrically opposed objectives, were given top priority from the start. These were to keep the Roadster as light as possible relative to the Coupe and to maintain structural rigidity at an outstandingly high level for a convertible car.

These include identifying the load paths through the structure and body and modifying the way the body is attached at the back of the car to add additional stiffness relative to the Coupe. In addition, weight-optimised shear panels have been added in strategic positions to laterally stiffen the structure further even than the Coupe in order to offset the reduction in rigidity inherent in any convertible car.

The roof itself comes in ‘Z-fold’ configuration, which is both faster and lighter than a traditional ‘K-fold’ roof and removes the requirement for a tonneau cover, further saving weight and lowering the centre of gravity. The roof on Vantage Roadster can be opened or closed at any speed up to 31mph (50km/h) with the entire roof fold operation (open or closed) taking just 6.8sec – the fastest fully automatic deployable roof mechanism on the market today. Additionally, this slick operation can be performed when seated in the car or remotely via the key, so long as the operator is within a two-metre radius of the car.

front three-quarter shot of two 2025 Vantage Roadsters parked outdoors

Despite the extraordinary speed of the roof operation and its lightweight design, no sacrifice to refinement has been made. The roof comprises no fewer than eight levels of insulation ensuring that cabin sound levels with the roof up are comparable to those of Vantage coupe.

The Z-fold action results in a simpler and therefore lighter roof, leading to Vantage Roadster delivering an overall weight increase of just 60kg, an outstanding achievement – and class leading – for a car in this category.

Even the roll-over structure has been carefully optimised to be both as strong and lightweight as possible. The aluminium Roll-Over and Protection System (ROPS) is formed using a process called ‘Castrusion’ for the way it combines optimal elements from both casting and extrusion to create a system that is robust, light and simple to package.

Finally, attention has also been paid to the suspension system to account both for the change in mass and weight distribution. Minimal though these changes are, the fact that Vantage Roadster has recalibrated software for its rear dampers and retuned mountings for its rear mounted gearbox just shows the lengths Aston Martin engineers go to in order to ensure a full measure of the legendary Vantage handling prowess is carried over from Coupe to Roadster.

Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance, said “Vantage made headlines last year for the huge increases in power and torque over the outgoing model, and the vivid way in which it deployed such immense performance completely seduced enthusiasts and purists alike. Developing both Vantage Coupe and Roadster simultaneously meant we were able to retain the outrageous dynamic capabilities and agile sporting character of Vantage with no compromise upon removal of the roof, allowing drivers to revel at the limit with the added exposure to the elements. This has been achieved from meticulous optimisations in the body structure combined with Roadster specific chassis tuning carried out by our skilled dynamics team and is the perfect stablemate to its Coupe cohort.”

top-angle side profile shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Design

It was essential that all of the visceral impact and beauty of Vantage Coupe was retained for Vantage Roadster, and that it should retain its stunning lines whether the roof is in its raised or lowered position. So successfully has this been achieved that when the roof is stowed Vantage Roadster looks like it was never designed to be anything else. The dramatically angled windscreen joins with the car’s high waistline to create a proportionally perfect thoroughbred sports car profile.

The roof stows seamlessly behind the seats with no need for a bulky and heavy tonneau cover while the bootlid deck slopes gently downwards until it meets the dramatic upkick of the distinctive rear spoiler. The widened stance introduced on the coupe is retained on Roadster, as is the increased aperture of the signature Aston Martin grille; an object lesson in how to combine beauty with function, with the large grille increasing air flow the powerful engine by almost 30 per cent.

With a spectacular canvas to create a sporting masterpiece, three new paint colours – Iridescent Sapphire, Satin Iridescent Sapphire and Bronze Flare have been added to the paint palette, while the Vantage Roadster’s roof can be specified in Black, Red, Blue or Black and Silver. To enhance the cars sporting character further still, a selection of painted liveries can also be applied in a choice of 21 complementary colours. There are four 21” wheel styles, available in a range of finishes, behind which can be seen one of seven different colour choices of brake calipers.

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, said: “This new Vantage Roadster is a sculptural masterpiece. The resonant roar of its engine brings its simple yet refined surface design to life, creating a connection that’s impossible to ignore. Its form exudes beauty, its athletic stance conveys predatory intent, and its sound delivers a visceral, sensory experience. Created as both art and performance, the engine’s sound amplifies this balance, turning the auditory experience into an essential part of the journey. With the roof down, the soundscape becomes as dynamic as the design, blending simplicity, power, and a visceral connection that transcends driving into an unmatched sensory experience.”

Like all Aston Martin models, Vantage customers can explore endless bespoke and customisation possibilities via the Q by Aston Martin personalisation service. Enlisting the skills of Q’s designers and crafts people, customers take an unforgettable personal commissioning journey that can encompass everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components to create a true one-off.

top-angle rear-three-quarter shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Vantage Roadster, like its Coupe counterpart, is the latest model to feature Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment. Created in-house and first introduced on DB12, it is entirely bespoke and developed in-house from scratch. The system combines a fully integrated multi-screen system with full online connectivity, featuring 10.25” Pure Black touchscreen technology with full capacitive single and multi-finger gesture control. Touchscreen commands remain balanced with the tactility of physical switches, with buttons retained for the key mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation. There are also control switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Active Safety System settings and Park Distance Control, ensuring the most used controls can be operated intuitively and without the need to take your eyes off the road. Supplemented by a new Aston Martin customer connectivity app which supports iOS and Android devices, it allows interaction, control and feedback to and from the customer’s Vantage via their personal device.

Vantage Roaster is fitted as standard with the Aston Martin 390w 11 speaker audio system. Developed utilising advanced hardware, this system features a Surround sound mode with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for an immersive soundscape. However, if a musical soundtrack to the drive is deemed truly significant, some customers will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the Vantage Roadster’s interior volume and shape, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins’ acclaimed world-class loudspeakers.

Vantage Roadster deliveries will commence in Q2 2025. It joins its Coupe sibling, the DB12 and DB12 Volante, the stunning new Vanquish and, of course the Supercar of SUVs, DBX707 as well as the forthcoming Valhalla supercar to form unquestionably the most capable, comprehensive and desirable product line up in the 112-year history of the Aston Martin marque.

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World’s Best Autonomous Racing Teams Push the Limits of Driverless Technology During A2RL Qualifying

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action shot of cars racing on the track at the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League

Qualification for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) has concluded with a thrilling pole position for reigning champions, TUM. The German team is one of six that have made it through a demanding, multi-stage qualification process to the Grand Final on November 15.

A2RL is a demonstration of cutting-edge autonomous technology, accelerating AI development through competition in extreme conditions. Eleven international teams travelled to Abu Dhabi to qualify for the second season of the world’s most advanced autonomous racing championship.

The competition is designed to push artificial intelligence to its physical limits as the best minds from academic institutions, private companies, and privateer race teams compete on the world stage for a US$2.25 million prize pool.

action shot of cars racing on the track at the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League

Record lap times

Further pushing the frontier of driverless technology, history was also made during the week of intensive qualification as teams began to consistently set sub-1-minute lap times on the North Circuit configuration of the Yas Marina track. Italy’s Unimore team, a returning finalist, set an autonomous lap record of 58.87 seconds – seven hundredths of a second faster than the benchmark lap set by a professional human racing driver during data collection laps (59.20 seconds).

The record-setting lap was achieved during Pace Qualification, where all teams completed three separate 15-minute sessions to set their fastest possible times. This was followed by Multi-Car Qualification, four heats of twelve laps, where performance highlights included a spectacular overtake on Unimore from TUM, securing pole position in their pursuit of back-to-back wins.

World First: Six-Car Grand Final

Six teams – TUM, Unimore, Kinetiz, TII Racing, PoliMOVE and Constructor – qualified for the Grand Final on 15th of November 2025 at Yas Marina Circuit. Representing four countries, they will compete in a 24-lap multi-car race, the largest race of its kind and a spectacle like no other. The event will also feature a Silver Race time trial for the remaining five A2RL teams.

This year, former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat returns for the second instalment of the Human vs AI showcase – a demonstration of machine precision versus human instinct and the rapid evolution of AI performance.

action shot of cars racing on the track at the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League

Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, commented: “This season, we’re pushing the boundaries of autonomous racing even further and redefining what is possible. From week to week, we are seeing ‘machine’ capabilities rapidly approaching human performance – even surpassing some human benchmark times set during data collection. This week, Unimore has thrown down the gauntlet with a record-breaking lap time.

“Next month, we will witness six formidably competitive teams race for victory. Last year’s A2RL Champion TUM is in pole position, but given the intense competition during qualification, the Grand Final in November is set to be an exhilarating conclusion!”

Ayoub Raji, Co-Lead of Unimore Racing said: “We are proud to have demonstrated that an autonomous race car can deliver close to human capabilities. The competition was fierce, with many teams bringing extensive experience and strong technical resources. Our autonomous stack proved not only to be the fastest but also the safest, skillfully exploiting the kerbs to avoid a collision during TUM’s overtake. We can’t wait to be back on track for the Grand Final on November 15, pushing our software to the absolute limit in pursuit of first place. “

Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week

The 2025 A2RL race will be the climax of the first-ever Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week (ADAW). This new six-day event brings together researchers and industry experts across a series of high-profile summits, exhibitions, and events. ADAW includes the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit, DRIFTx Exhibition, and RoboCup Asia-Pacific.

A2RL was conceptualized under the vision and direction of H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President and Secretary General of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). It is organized and driven by ASPIRE, part of the ATRC that is responsible for technological “Grand Challenges”. ASPIRE leads the UAE’s efforts to advance breakthrough research, foster global collaborations, and translate high-impact technologies into real-world applications.

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2025 GEELY OKAVANGO FIRST-DRIVE REVIEW: THREE ROWS OF COMFORT

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A front three-quarter shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Amalsha VS

The Seven-Seater Specialist.
A genuinely practical seven-seater SUV that prioritizes space and functionality over styling, making it a compelling choice for larger families.

QUICK TAKE

Shiny Bits

  • Genuinely impressive third-row space
  • Comprehensive feature set.
  • Smooth dual-clutch transmission
  • Competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater.

Rough edges

  • Somewhat generic exterior styling.
  • Interior materials feel budget-conscious
  • Apple CarPlay is wired only
  • No Android Auto at all.

Founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto has evolved from a small Chinese startup into a global automotive powerhouse that now owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar. Introduced to the UAE market through AGMC as the official distributor, Geely brings decades of automotive expertise and international partnerships to create vehicles that blend practical design with modern technology. The Okavango represents their vision of what a family-focused SUV should deliver in today’s market.

CONFIDENT DESIGN & PRACTICAL PROPORTIONS

A sde-angle shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Handles the occasional rough road with ease.

The Okavango is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement.

The Okavango presents a thoughtful approach to SUV design that prioritizes function over fashion. Its bold front grille creates a commanding road presence, while the clean lines and well-proportioned silhouette give it a confident stance without appearing dull. The LED lighting signatures add a contemporary touch that keeps the design current, though the overall aesthetic plays it safe within established SUV conventions.

What immediately strikes you about the Okavango is its substantial size – this is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement. The result is a design that may not win beauty contests but clearly communicates its practical intentions to potential buyers seeking maximum utility.

CAPABLE POWERTRAIN & PUNCHY PERFORMANCE

A front-angle shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Taking it to the top – Jabal Jais summit.

Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves.

Under the Okavango’s hood resides a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor pushing out 218 horsepower and 325 NM, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Acceleration is more than adequate: taking around 8 seconds to achieve a speed of 100 km/h, quick enough for confident overtakes on the UAE highways.

In Comfort mode, power delivery is smooth, while Sport mode noticeably sharpens engine response. Steering is tuned for lightness, good in city driving, but at higher speeds it could use a little more weight. Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, in a tall, three-row SUV, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves. Ride comfort is the focus: the suspension soaks up speed bumps and road imperfections with composure.

CONCEIVED AS A COMFY PEOPLE HAULER

A high-angle shot of the interior of the interior of a Geely Okavango
Space for the whole family.

The second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout delivers superior comfort and easier access to the third row.

Interior materials strike a balance between cost-consciousness and perceived quality, with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen providing clear graphics and intuitive operation. However, Android Auto isn’t offered, which we consider an essential feature for a modern car of this time. Apple CarPlay is included but only a wired connection is supported.

The overall cabin design ranks functionality above luxury, which suits the vehicle’s practical mission perfectly. This is where the Okavango distinguishes itself. Its flexible seating configuration allows you to accommodate passengers or cargo as needed, with the second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout providing superior comfort and easier access to the third row. The second row sliding & reclining gives flexibility to balance passenger comfort between the second and third rows.

The highlight factor of the Okavango is that its third-row is genuinely usable. Unlike many other mid-size crossovers, the Okavango doesn’t simply provide a third-row for namesake which is too cramped for grown-ups. Two adults can be seated there with a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom for shorter journeys. The seats fold and recline; and although ingress/egress is still a bit less convenient than second row, is not too much of a hassle.

Air conditioning is adjustable in the rear rows well, which matters under UAE heat and strong sun. Even with all seven seats occupied, passengers wouldn’t feel cramped or compromised inside the Okavango; a rare achievement in this segment.

FINAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Practical family transport, executed right.

For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore.

The Geely Okavango succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission – delivering genuine seven-seater capability at a competitive price point. It’s a vehicle that understands its target audience and delivers exactly what they need without trying to be something it’s not. The exceptional third-row space alone makes it worth considering for families who need to transport seven people regularly.

It may not excite enthusiasts or turn heads on the UAE roads laden with all kinds of fancy automobiles. But the Okavango represents exactly the kind of practical, well-executed family transport that many buyers are seeking. For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore. It’s a vehicle that does the important things well, which is often more valuable than flashy shock-value-features that rarely get used.

FAQ

Is the Geely Okavango available in the UAE?

Yes, the Geely Okavango is available in the UAE through AGMC, the official distributor for Geely vehicles in the region.

How many seats does the Geely Okavango have?

The Geely Okavango is a seven-seater SUV with a flexible seating configuration featuring a second-row triple captain’s chairs layout and a genuinely usable third row.

What engine does the Geely Okavango use?

The Okavango is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 218 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

How fast is the Geely Okavango?

The Geely Okavango accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds, providing adequate power for confident highway overtaking.

Does the Geely Okavango have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The Okavango features wired Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto is not available on this model.

Is the third row in the Geely Okavango comfortable for adults?

Yes, unlike many mid-size SUVs, the Okavango’s third row offers genuine usability with reasonable legroom and headroom for two adults on shorter journeys.

What is the price range of the Geely Okavango in the UAE?

The Geely Okavango offers competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater SUV in the UAE market, making it an attractive value proposition for families.

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DRIVE NOW, BUY LATER: Cariva’s Market-Changing Philosophy

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A front-angle shot of Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA standing in front of an Audi A6, Chevy Camaro and Dodge Charger

Exclusive Interview with Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA

A front-angle shot of Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA standing beside a Chevy Tahoe
Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA

CARIVA is positioned as a tech-enabled, transparent platform for used car sales. What gap in the UAE automotive ecosystem did you see that inspired you to launch CARIVA?

The UAE is a very competitive market for used cars, yet there is still a wide gap between customer expectations and the actual services available. When people buy a pre-owned car today, the first thought that often crosses their mind is, “Am I taking a risk?” This question reflects a deep concern about trust. Buyers want to know if the car is in good condition, whether it has been in an accident, if it was serviced at authorized centers, whether the odometer has been tampered with, and how many people have driven it before.

We realized that answering these questions honestly and transparently could transform the customer experience. That is how Cariva came into existence. We are not just selling cars, we are giving customers peace of mind. At Cariva, we share everything about the car openly, from its service history to accident records. Each vehicle undergoes a full inspection at a government-authorized center before a buyer makes any decision. By doing this, we flip the customer’s question from “Am I taking a risk?” to “Am I protected?” We’re not just filling a gap – we’re disrupting an entire ecosystem that has operated on opacity for too long.

CARIVA has been described as “built from the ground up” — from ideation to execution. What was the most challenging stage of bringing this venture to life?

When you are working on an idea, everything looks straightforward on paper. The reality of execution is very different. Challenges appear at every stage, and the most difficult part for us was identifying exactly what the customer wanted and where the gap existed between expectations and reality. We realized we weren’t just building another used car platform – we were disrupting decades of industry practices that prioritized profit over customer protection.

We found that many businesses in this space focus on what they want to sell rather than what customers are looking for. Our challenge was to design solutions that addressed customer needs directly. This required listening carefully to buyers, understanding their pain points, and rethinking how used cars are presented and sold. The result is a model that fills the trust gap and delivers what customers truly expect, not just what the industry is accustomed to offering.

A front-three quarter action shot of a Audi RS5 and Range Rover Sport driven on the road

The UAE already has established players in the used car space. How does CARIVA differentiate itself in terms of customer experience, trust, and transparency?

Used cars are now outpacing new car sales worldwide, and the UAE is no exception. Buyers are drawn to affordability, but what they value just as much is transparency and trust. This is where Cariva stands apart.

We are not in the business of simply selling a car. We provide a mobility solution that is backed by confidence and honesty. Every customer receives a detailed inspection report that includes even the smallest imperfections a car may have due to age. We also provide a complete service history, which is something customers often struggle to access elsewhere.

Most importantly, every car is backed by an original manufacturer warranty, not just a generic third-party plan. For buyers, this approach translates into confidence, flexibility, and control. They are not just making a purchase, they are making an informed decision that they can feel good about for years to come. Beyond transparency, we offer choice. With over 100+ models available from various makes, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium vehicles, Cariva ensures every customer finds exactly what they’re looking for, regardless of their budget or lifestyle preferences.

You’ve previously mentioned blending data and emotion in brand building. How does this philosophy reflect in CARIVA’s business model and customer journey?

I strongly believe in data-driven decision-making, but I also recognize that data alone cannot create meaningful connections. When combined with emotional intelligence, data becomes a powerful tool for shaping customer experiences.

Before we built Cariva, we carried out extensive market research to understand the size of the opportunity, customer needs, and pain points from past purchase experiences. The insights we uncovered were eye-opening and helped us shape the concept of Cariva in a way that directly responds to customer realities.

We also understand that every customer is unique. A car is not just a vehicle; it often reflects a buyer’s lifestyle and personality. At Cariva, we support customers at every step of their journey, from selecting the right car to arranging financing, insurance, and registration. By combining data with empathy, we are able to deliver a holistic mobility solution that respects both rational needs and emotional aspirations, making car ownership seamless from day one.

A wide-angle shot of a fleet of cars

Consumer trust has always been a sticking point in the used car market. How does CARIVA ensure quality assurance in inspections, certifications, and after-sales support?

Trust is the foundation of Cariva. For too long, the lack of transparency in the UAE’s used car industry has left buyers second-guessing their purchase. We are addressing this by building trust into every stage of the process.

Each vehicle goes through a comprehensive multi-point inspection that covers the engine, chassis, transmission, gearbox, and safety systems. Cars are certified at authorized centers, and this provides customers with verified quality. We also offer manufacturer-backed warranties that remove uncertainty about hidden issues. These aren’t generic third-party warranties – they’re OEM warranties backed by authorized agencies, the same coverage you’d get with a new car purchase.

On top of this, we introduced a global-first initiative called “Drive Now, Buy Later.” This gives customers up to four weeks to take the car home, use it in their daily life, and only make the purchase once they are completely confident. Finally, our after-sales support includes service partnerships and a dedicated customer care line, ensuring peace of mind long after the car has been purchased.

By addressing every concern head-on, Cariva has created a new benchmark for trust in the pre-owned market.

With more millennials and Gen Z buyers entering the car market, do you notice a shift in how they approach buying used cars compared to traditional buyers?

Yes, there has been a significant shift. Millennials and Gen Z buyers think very differently about mobility. They are digital-first, which means they do most of their research online before they ever step into a showroom. They want transparency, easy access to information, and digital tools that help them make better decisions.

They also value experience over ownership. Many of them prefer to try before buying, which is why our Drive Now, Buy Later program has resonated so strongly. At the same time, they are far more conscious of sustainability and value. For them, pre-owned cars are not only cost-effective but also a more environmentally responsible choice compared to buying new.

Cariva is designed with these shifts in mind. Our platform is digital, transparent, and flexible, which makes it perfectly aligned with the expectations of this new generation of buyers. Whether they’re looking for their first budget-friendly car or upgrading to a premium model, our diverse inventory caters to every financial bracket without compromising on quality or trust.

A wide-angle shot of a fleet of cars

The UAE used car market is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising demand for affordable mobility and certified pre-owned cars. How do you see this market evolving in the next 3–5 years?

The UAE used car market is undergoing a major transformation. It is moving away from fragmented, informal sales toward a structured and customer-focused ecosystem.

Over the next three to five years, certified pre-owned cars will become the standard rather than the exception. We will also see the digitization of the entire buying journey, from virtual car tours to online financing and even doorstep delivery. In addition, value-added services such as extended warranties, flexible return policies, and bundled insurance will become key factors in customer decision-making.

Cariva is already ahead of this curve. By offering certification, flexible ownership models, warranties, and digital convenience all under one roof, we are not just keeping pace with the market but shaping its future direction.

With the UAE accelerating its shift towards electric mobility, what opportunities do you see emerging in the pre-owned EV market, and how is CARIVA preparing to tap into this space?

Electric vehicles are central to the UAE’s sustainability vision, and with that comes a huge opportunity in the pre-owned EV market. Today, many customers are hesitant because of concerns about battery life, resale value, and the lack of proper certification standards.

Cariva is preparing to address these gaps head-on. We are partnering with specialized diagnostic providers to certify battery health and performance. We are developing EV-specific warranties and buyback programs that give customers confidence in their purchase. At the same time, we are creating awareness campaigns to educate buyers about the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of EV ownership.

By building these solutions early, Cariva is positioning itself as a trusted pioneer in pre-owned electric mobility, fully aligned with the UAE’s national sustainability agenda.

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