Latest news with #AlHabtoorMotors
The National
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The National
The basic rules for buying a second-hand car in the UAE
The difference in price point between showroom-fresh and second-hand cars is significant. Yet, everyone has heard stories from friends and family about used-vehicle purchases that have ended in, at best, severe inconvenience and, at worst, complete disaster. Don't let that put you off, however, as simply knowing the basic rules for buying a second-hand car can leave you confident in your purchase. 'Buyers are advised to closely examine the vehicle's service history, mileage and overall condition – both mechanical and cosmetic,' says Karim Maksoud, managing director of Al Habtoor Motors, which deals in both new and used vehicles. 'It is equally important to verify that the car is free from any accident damage and has undergone a thorough, professional inspection,' Maksoud adds. There are two options when looking for a used car – going through dealerships or sourcing a model directly from the previous owner. In the main, you're likely to pay a little more to a dealership, but they invariably offer perks of one sort or another, and these can be highly attractive when it comes to having peace of mind when making your purchase. Al Habtoor, for example, offers a 14-day exchange guarantee and a five-year top-up warranty, while Al Futtaim has roadside assistance and comprehensive inspections included with its Toyota and Lexus packages. Carlos Montenegro, managing director of fleet strategy at Al Futtaim Automotive, another key player in the UAE used-car market, says transparency and trust are key, especially when buying from an individual owner. 'The most obvious red flags include inconsistent service history, signs of accident damage, unusually low pricing and unclear vehicle ownership or importation history,' he says. Once you find a car you fancy, one of the first things to do is track down its vehicle identification number. VIN is a unique, 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every car that will help ascertain its legitimacy. The digits show the motor's country of origin, manufacturer, vehicle type and attributes, the year it was built and the plant in which it was assembled. This code allows interested parties to assess the vehicle's registration, insurance status and, crucially, any history of accidents or theft. There are multiple online options for checking the VIN, the easiest being the websites for Emirates Vehicle Gate, Ministry of Interior, Dubai's Roads and Traffic Authority, Abu Dhabi Police or Tamm. When checking the code's validity, Maksoud says: 'It is essential to verify that the VIN matches all official paperwork.' Both Maksoud and Montenegro stress the relation between a car's mileage and its overall condition. Distance-wise, figures suggest drivers average about 19,000-24,000km a year, so you can tell if a vehicle is above or below what you might expect by multiplying how old the car is by those digits. Looking for dents, scratches or rust is a given, but it's also worth thoroughly examining the panels up close to look for inconsistencies in paintwork. These could be an indicator that the car has had a DIY patch-up after being scraped. If the car is low to the floor, getting down on your back is not strictly necessary. Instead, run your fingers along the underside to see if there is any scratching not visible from an upright position. It is, however, worth getting down on your hands and knees to check for any pools on the tarmac under the car while it is stationary, though – leaks of any kind are never a good sign. Tyres are another area to check for wear and tear, with tread length being the key issue. You can test by inserting a Dh1 coin into the grooves at various points. In general, if you can twist the coin, the tyre is worn and needs replacing. Montenegro also recommends asking for certifications such as a 99-point or 145-point inspection, as these are often provided by dealers. Inside the car, make sure you press every button there is to check each is doing what it's supposed to. It's also worth tapping the dashboard in a few places to ascertain that it's still solid – things can become loose with age. Also check the seating – it isn't just about whether it's comfortable or not, but also how worn the material is and whether it might need replacing. Air conditioning is a key area of concern in this region, so start the engine and sit there for a few minutes to check all is in working order. If the chilling isn't thrilling, it could just be a case of topping up the refrigerant, but you should also look out for odd noises, such as squealing or rattling, and be cautious of mouldy smells. Any aircon servicing outlet should be able to cure this, but you should consider how much you might have to spend when it comes to what you're finally paying for the vehicle. You can get a refrigerant top-up for as little as Dh100, for example, but an overhaul will be significantly more. Both experts agree that a test drive is essential. It's difficult to assess problems from the engine's sound alone, but you should be able to tell if it sounds clunky or lacking in power. All cars lose grunt as they age, but it's worth checking out the specs of a particular vehicle to give you an idea of what it was capable of when it was fresh off the production line. All this aside, if you want to be really thorough, it's worth seeking the services of a qualified mechanic to give the car a once-over. A good technician will not only be able to assess any potential problems, but also tell you how much it might cost to put them right and what impact that will have on price negotiation. Maksoud says: 'After-sales support and credibility of the seller play a key role in a safe and satisfactory purchase.' Montenegro concludes: 'A well-maintained used car should come with a verified service history, low to moderate mileage relative to its age, and a clean body and interior.'
The National
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- The National
Tips for buying a second-hand car in the UAE
The difference in price point between showroom-fresh and second-hand cars is significant. Yet, everyone has heard stories from friends and family about used-vehicle purchases that have ended in, at best, severe inconvenience and, at worst, complete disaster. Don't let that put you off, however, as simply knowing the basic rules for buying a second-hand car can leave you confident in your purchase. 'Buyers are advised to closely examine the vehicle's service history, mileage and overall condition – both mechanical and cosmetic,' says Karim Maksoud, managing director of Al Habtoor Motors, which deals in both new and used vehicles. 'It is equally important to verify that the car is free from any accident damage and has undergone a thorough, professional inspection,' Maksoud adds. There are two options when looking for a used car – going through dealerships or sourcing a model directly from the previous owner. In the main, you're likely to pay a little more to a dealership, but they invariably offer perks of one sort or another, and these can be highly attractive when it comes to having peace of mind when making your purchase. Al Habtoor, for example, offers a 14-day exchange guarantee and a five-year top-up warranty, while Al Futtaim has roadside assistance and comprehensive inspections included with its Toyota and Lexus packages. Carlos Montenegro, managing director of fleet strategy at Al Futtaim Automotive, another key player in the UAE used-car market, says transparency and trust are key, especially when buying from an individual owner. 'The most obvious red flags include inconsistent service history, signs of accident damage, unusually low pricing and unclear vehicle ownership or importation history,' he says. Once you find a car you fancy, one of the first things to do is track down its vehicle identification number. VIN is a unique, 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every car that will help ascertain its legitimacy. The digits show the motor's country of origin, manufacturer, vehicle type and attributes, the year it was built and the plant in which it was assembled. This code allows interested parties to assess the vehicle's registration, insurance status and, crucially, any history of accidents or theft. There are multiple online options for checking the VIN, the easiest being the websites for Emirates Vehicle Gate, Ministry of Interior, Dubai's Roads and Traffic Authority, Abu Dhabi Police or Tamm. When checking the code's validity, Maksoud says: 'It is essential to verify that the VIN matches all official paperwork.' Both Maksoud and Montenegro stress the relation between a car's mileage and its overall condition. Distance-wise, figures suggest drivers average about 19,000-24,000km a year, so you can tell if a vehicle is above or below what you might expect by multiplying how old the car is by those digits. Looking for dents, scratches or rust is a given, but it's also worth thoroughly examining the panels up close to look for inconsistencies in paintwork. These could be an indicator that the car has had a DIY patch-up after being scraped. If the car is low to the floor, getting down on your back is not strictly necessary. Instead, run your fingers along the underside to see if there is any scratching not visible from an upright position. It is, however, worth getting down on your hands and knees to check for any pools on the tarmac under the car while it is stationary, though – leaks of any kind are never a good sign. Tyres are another area to check for wear and tear, with tread length being the key issue. You can test by inserting a Dh1 coin into the grooves at various points. In general, if you can twist the coin, the tyre is worn and needs replacing. Montenegro also recommends asking for certifications such as a 99-point or 145-point inspection, as these are often provided by dealers. Inside the car, make sure you press every button there is to check each is doing what it's supposed to. It's also worth tapping the dashboard in a few places to ascertain that it's still solid – things can become loose with age. Also check the seating – it isn't just about whether it's comfortable or not, but also how worn the material is and whether it might need replacing. Air conditioning is a key area of concern in this region, so start the engine and sit there for a few minutes to check all is in working order. If the chilling isn't thrilling, it could just be a case of topping up the refrigerant, but you should also look out for odd noises, such as squealing or rattling, and be cautious of mouldy smells. Any aircon servicing outlet should be able to cure this, but you should consider how much you might have to spend when it comes to what you're finally paying for the vehicle. You can get a refrigerant top-up for as little as Dh100, for example, but an overhaul will be significantly more. Both experts agree that a test drive is essential. It's difficult to assess problems from the engine's sound alone, but you should be able to tell if it sounds clunky or lacking in power. All cars lose grunt as they age, but it's worth checking out the specs of a particular vehicle to give you an idea of what it was capable of when it was fresh off the production line. All this aside, if you want to be really thorough, it's worth seeking the services of a qualified mechanic to give the car a once-over. A good technician will not only be able to assess any potential problems, but also tell you how much it might cost to put them right and what impact that will have on price negotiation. Maksoud says: 'After-sales support and credibility of the seller play a key role in a safe and satisfactory purchase.' Montenegro concludes: 'A well-maintained used car should come with a verified service history, low to moderate mileage relative to its age, and a clean body and interior.'
Zawya
17-05-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Al Habtoor Motors introduces the exclusive Pagani Huayra Tempesta Package in the UAE
RELATED TOPICS AUTOMOTIVE RELATED COMPANIES Pagani Pirelli and C AH Rimac Group Habtoor Group Bugatti Automobi Advanced mechanical upgrades for ultimate performance and comfort Exclusive 1-year warranty extension for Huayra Roadster customers Dubai, UAE – Al Habtoor Motors, the exclusive distributor of Pagani Automobili S.P.A. in the UAE, is proud to announce the introduction of the Tempesta Package to esteemed customers in the Emirates, an exceptional upgrade that embodies the very essence of automotive craftsmanship, technology, and performance. This exclusive package is now available to customers and enthusiasts in the UAE, pushing the boundaries of extraordinary models such as the Huayra Coupe and Roadster as well as the Huayra BC Coupe and Roadster to new heights. Pagani Automobili has long been synonymous with cutting-edge design and groundbreaking engineering, and the introduction of the Huayra Tempesta Package continues this tradition of excellence. Unmatched bodywork upgrades The Tempesta Package bodywork represents a substantial leap in advanced technical and aerodynamic solutions developed from the Huayra Roadster BC and Huayra R. The new body elements increase the car's downforce, while keeping a reduced drag reaching the perfect balance. On the surface, the upgrade Tempesta Package bodywork gives the Huayra and Huayra BC an even more aggressive and unique style with an effective contribution to bring the car to the extreme of performance. Front Splitter and Lateral Flicks: Redesigned with input from the Huayra R's aerodynamic studies, the new front splitter optimises air extraction and balances the rear wing, providing better airflow through the front radiators and increasing heat exchange efficiency. Air Scoop, Rear Wing, and Stabilizing Fin: A new central air scoop intake with an interior conveyor, a rear wing and a unique stabilising 'shark fin'. The new central air intake also improves the cooling of the engine oil to achieve maximum aerodynamic efficiency Rear Bonnet Conveyor: The air intake conveyor has been designed to allow a more effective distribution of the internal pressures of the rear bonnet duct and provide cooler airflow to the engine, reaching the maximum performance. Rear Wing: The rear wing is positioned towards the car's rear to optimise balance by improving pressure over the rear axle. Its shark fin design reduces air turbulence, ensuring smoother airflow and enhancing aerodynamic performance and stability at high speeds. Aero Taillights Cover: Aerodynamic cleanliness is essential in every single element, and intense work has been done on details to optimize the aerodynamic load. The tail light covers of the Tempesta Package have been designed to reduce the drag generated by the airflow, extending the laminar boundary layer over the bonnet. Rear Bumper: The Tempesta Package includes two additional lateral extractors mounted on the rear diffuser, along with two auxiliary tailpipes that help expel exhaust gases through the diffuser. These upgrades improve rear aerodynamic downforce and enhance the car's engine efficiency, while also amplifying the exhaust sound for a more thrilling driving experience. Mechanical Upgrades for Ultimate Performance Beyond aesthetics, the Tempesta Package includes significant mechanical upgrades that enhance performance, stability, and safety. Suspension System: An advanced suspension system that enhances power transfer, reducing dive and sway during braking, allowing the driver to brake later in corners. It integrates electronically controlled active shock absorbers, which are interconnected and enable the front suspension to automatically adjust ride height. Super Soft Mode: The active suspension system introduces a 'super soft' mode for enhanced comfort, perfect for bumpy roads, ensuring that the Huayra can be enjoyed in various driving conditions without sacrificing comfort. Six-Exhaust System: A new titanium six-exhaust pipe system not only amplifies the distinctive roar of the twelve-cylinder engine but also enhances aerodynamics through the blown diffuser principle, generating further downforce. Wheels & Tyres: The new forged rims wheels and Pirelli Trofeo R tyres are designed for the ultimate balance of grip, performance, and safety. Pagani offers a 1-year Warranty Extension with the Tempesta Package, ensuring that owners continue to enjoy the unmatched luxury and performance of their Huayra vehicles. The Tempesta Package is a true reflection of Pagani's unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of automotive innovation. It is a perfect blend of technology, art, and performance, bringing the Huayra and Huayra BC to an entirely new level of excellence. For more information on the Pagani Huayra Tempesta Package and its availability, please email info@ for inquiries. A bout Al Habtoor Motors | Luxury Division: Part of the renowned Al Habtoor Group and established in 1983, Al Habtoor Motors is the official dealer partner for Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., sole authorized importer for Bentley Motors, Rimac Automobili, Pagani Automobili S.p.A. and Czinger Vehicles. Working with luxury brand, Bugatti, for over a decade in the U.A.E, Al Habtoor Motors has been Bugatti's official dealer partner since 2006 and a Bugatti Service Partner of Excellence since 2013. Bugatti UAE is the brand's most successful dealer in the world. In 2024, Al Habtoor Motors and Bugatti UAE were named 'Bugatti Global Service Partner of the Year'. For seven consecutive years (2011 – 2017), Al Habtoor Motors held the title for 'Number 1 Dealer in the World' and again regained that title in 2019. In 2022, Bentley Emirates won 'Retailer of the Year' and 'Sales Retailer of the Year' at the Middle East and Africa Bentley Regional Dealer Conference. In 2023, Bentley Emirates won Retailer of the Year for Marketing and Marketing Manager of the Year, Bentley Abu Dhabi won Sales Dealer of the Year and Bentley Dubai won Pre-owned Retailer of the Year. In 2024, Bentley Emirates won Retailer of the Year for Marketing and the Winning Culture Award; Bentley Abu Dhabi won the Retailer of the Year in the Sales Category and the Sales Team Challenge Award; and Bentley Dubai won the Retailer of the Year in the Mulliner Category. In 2016 the company opened the world's largest Bentley Motors showroom on Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road. In 2020, it launched a new state-of-the-art showroom in Abu Dhabi. Delivering the highest standards of professionalism, quality and customer service, Al Habtoor Motors also has one of the largest aftersales facilities in the world located in Dubai Industrial City which services all of its Prestige brands under one roof.
Mid East Info
08-04-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
Bugatti UAE named ‘Bugatti Global Service Partner of the Year' for 2024 - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, UAE — April 07, 2025 – Al Habtoor Motors, the exclusive partner of Bugatti Automobiles in the UAE, is proud to announce that Bugatti UAE has been named 'Bugatti Global Service Partner of the Year' for 2024, further cementing its position as a leading force in the brand's global network and emphasising its unwavering commitment to excellence in aftersales service and customer care. Awarded to global service partners that demonstrate unparalleled performance in cultivating deep connections with customers, anticipating their needs, and delivering service with the highest level of dedication and attention to detail, this prestigious recognition represents the pinnacle of excellence in aftersales care. With service and maintenance at the heart of the ownership experience, Bugatti UAE has set a new benchmark in aftersales, showcasing industry-leading technical proficiency, state-of-the-art service facilities, and an uncompromising commitment to customer satisfaction. This latest achievement adds to Bugatti UAE's impressive list of accolades, reinforcing its leadership within the global network. In 2023, the UAE division was named 'Best Performance Partner for the Middle East and Asia Region' for service, while in 2022, it secured third place globally for 'Sales Excellence'. Ahmed Al Habtoor, Chief Executive Officer of Al Habtoor Motors, commented, 'At Al Habtoor Motors, every detail matters, and Bugatti UAE has exemplified the highest standards of excellence, delivering world-class service that embodies the prestige of our brand. This accolade further strengthens our leadership in Bugatti's global network. We remain fully committed to exceeding the expectations of every Bugatti owner, ensuring they receive the unparalleled service they deserve.' Joseph Tayar, Director of Al Habtoor Motors Prestige Division, said, 'It is an honor to be recognised as the 'Bugatti Global Service Partner of the Year' for 2024. This prestigious recognition reflects not only the hard work and passion of our talented team but also our commitment to setting the highest standards in after-sales service. We are dedicated to elevating the Bugatti ownership experience, pushing the boundaries of service innovation, and ensuring that every customer is treated with the highest level of care and attention.' Beyond its exceptional service, Bugatti UAE continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the brand's presence in the region. Highlighting its significance as a key global market, Bugatti Dubai became the world's first location to host the Silent Bugatti Tourbillon launch in 2024, showcasing its dedication to innovation and exclusivity.
Zawya
06-03-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Bentley Emirates unveils the Bentayga's Black Edition in the UAE
First-ever Bentley model featuring black-tinted wings in 105 years, marking a bold design evolution This exquisite model was displayed at the Dubai Polo Gold Cup hosted at Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club, one of the UAE's most prestigious events S Black Edition is the most visually striking Bentayga to date Dynamic exterior enhancements include vivid colour accents and gloss black details Enhanced agility with all-wheel steering and sports suspension calibration 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 542 bhp (550 PS) and 770 Nm of torque 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, top speed of 290 km/h Dubai, UAE – Bentley Emirates, exclusively represented by Al Habtoor Motors in the UAE, unveiled today the Bentayga S Black Edition in the UAE. This exceptional model sets a new benchmark in the brand's design and performance legacy, featuring the groundbreaking, black-tinted Bentley wings for the first time in 105 years. With its power and visual appeal, the Bentayga S Black Edition elevates the Bentayga range to new heights of luxury and innovation. The S Black Edition stands out with its striking black detailing, contrasted by vivid accent colours that can be chosen from a selection of seven: Mandarin, Signal Yellow, Klein Blue, Pillar Box Red, Ice, Hyper Green, and Beluga. These bold accents are seamlessly integrated into both the exterior and interior, creating a cohesive and impactful design language. This exquisite model was on display at the Dubai Polo Gold Cup hosted at the prestigious Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club, providing an exclusive opportunity for guests to experience the Bentley legacy in person while enjoying the excitement of one of the UAE's most prestigious events. Unparalleled Design & Personalization On the exterior, the accent colours are showcased through a laser-like stripe running across the Styling Specification body kit, which includes the front bumper, side sills, and rear spoiler. Matching brake calipers further enhance the eye-catching contrast, complementing the 22-inch black-painted wheels. All traditional brightware is finished in gloss black, including the Bentley wings and lettering—a first in Bentley's history. A Black Edition badge is positioned on the rear D pillar as the final signature touch. Inside, the handcrafted cabin maintains Bentley's signature luxury while integrating bold accent colours through contrast stitching, piping, and leather sections. The new carbon fibre weave on the fascia, centre console, and waist rails add a dynamic depth to the interior, with the Black Edition badge seamlessly inlaid beneath the lacquered surface. A Dark Chrome pack comes as standard, replacing the traditional bright chrome elements with gloss black finishes on the air vents, organ stop controls, and centre vents. Dynamic Performance & Driving Innovation The Bentayga S Black Edition delivers class-leading performance with its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 542 bhp (550 PS) and 770 Nm of torque. The SUV accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 290 km/h, while maintaining a range of 654 km. For enhanced handling and agility, the Electronic All-Wheel Steering and Bentley Dynamic Ride come as standard. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front, improving manoeuvrability, while at high speeds, they turn in the same direction for improved stability. The Bentayga S Black Edition also benefits from a sports suspension calibration, offering an additional 15% increase in air suspension damping, reducing body roll and enhancing cornering precision. A sports exhaust system is included as standard, delivering a deeper, more performance-oriented exhaust note. Bentley's Torque Vectoring by Brake system sharpens turn-in response, ensuring an engaging and dynamic drive. Luxury & Technology The Bentayga S Black Edition offers three premium audio options, including the Bentley Signature Audio system, Bang & Olufsen for Bentley with illuminated speaker grilles, and the Naim for Bentley system, delivering the ultimate in automotive sound quality. For more information on the Bentayga S Black Edition and its availability, please visit the Bentley Emirates showroom in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A bout Al Habtoor Motors | Luxury Division: Part of the renowned Al Habtoor Group and established in 1983, Al Habtoor Motors is the official dealer partner for Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., sole authorized importer for Bentley Motors, Rimac Automobili, Pagani Automobili S.p.A. and Czinger Vehicles. Working with luxury brand, Bugatti, for over a decade in the U.A.E, Al Habtoor Motors has been Bugatti's official dealer partner since 2006 and a Bugatti Service Partner of Excellence since 2013. Bugatti UAE is the brand's most successful dealer in the world and boasts the world's largest showroom which sprawls over 240 square meters. For seven consecutive years (2011 – 2017), Al Habtoor Motors held the title for 'Number 1 Dealer in the World' and again regained that title in 2019. In 2022, Bentley Emirates won 'Retailer of the Year' and 'Sales Retailer of the Year' at the Middle East and Africa Bentley Regional Dealer Conference. In 2023, Bentley Emirates won Retailer of the Year for Marketing and Marketing Manager of the Year, Bentley Abu Dhabi won Sales Dealer of the Year and Bentley Dubai won Pre-owned Retailer of the Year. In 2016 the company opened the world's largest Bentley Motors showroom on Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road. In 2020, it launched a new state-of-the-art showroom in Abu Dhabi. Delivering the highest standards of professionalism, quality and customer service, Al Habtoor Motors also has one of the largest aftersales facilities in the world located in Dubai Industrial City which services all of its Prestige brands under one roof.
