Saudi Arabia is home to some of the most stunning and extreme landscapes in the world. From the vast, rolling dunes of the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter) to the modern highways that connect the country’s thriving cities. Driving in Saudi Arabia demands a vehicle that is both versatile and powerful. Whether you’re conquering the desert or cruising on the highway, the best cars for desert driving combine durability, performance, and comfort.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 cars that are perfect for desert and highway driving in Saudi Arabia in 2025.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser has long been the benchmark for off‑roading in Saudi Arabia. Renowned for its reliability, ruggedness, and ease of navigating the harshest desert terrain. It’s consistently one of the best cars for desert driving thanks to its proven track record, strong build quality, and able highway manners. The VX HEV trim is ideal for those needing both desert performance and all‑day highway comfort.
Specifications
- Engine: 3.5L Hybrid V6
- Transmission: 10-speed AT
- Power & Torque: 457 hp, 790 Nm
- Fuel Economy: 11.2 Km/L
- 0–100 km/h: 6.0 seconds
- Top Speed: 220 km/h
- Main Features: 12.3’’ infotainment, Toyota Safety Sense, Full-time 4WD, Multi-terrain Select system
Price
- Starting Price: SAR 393,070
Nissan Patrol
If you’re after a luxury‑ready full‑size SUV that’s no slouch off‑road, the all-new Nissan Patrol ticks both boxes. It’s another of the best cars for desert driving. Its heritage in the Middle East is strong, and the SE Platinum City trim offers refined comfort for long highway journeys as well as the capability to handle sand, rocky, and desert conditions.
Specifications
- Engine: 3.8L V6
- Transmission: 9-speed AT
- Power & Torque: 316 hp, 386 Nm
- Fuel Economy: 9.7 Km/L
- 0–100 km/h: 7.8 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
- Main Features: 14.3’’ infotainment, 4WD with Terrain Mode, Hydraulic body motion control system, Multi-view camera system, Rear-seat entertainment system
Price
- Starting Price: SAR 380,999
Ford Bronco
For those who want adventure with modern tech, the Ford Bronco is a compelling pick. It’s designed to tackle the desert and the highways with equal confidence, making it one of the best cars for desert driving in Saudi Arabia if you don’t mind a more “experience‑driven” ride. The Big Bend trim pairs serious off‑road capability with a comfortable cabin for long stretches on the road.
Specifications
- Engine: 2.3L Ecoboost I4
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Power & Torque: 275 hp, 427 Nm
- Fuel Economy: 12.0 Km/L
- 0–100 km/h: 7.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
- Main Features: SYNC 4 infotainment system, Advanced 4×4 system, Digital display instrument cluster, Trail turn assist
Price
- Starting Price: SAR 193,315
Jeep Wrangler
When it comes to off‑road credibility, the Jeep Wrangler is legendary, and it certainly qualifies as one of the best cars for desert driving. While it may feel more “pure off‑road” than an ultra‑luxury highway cruiser, the Rubicon 392 trim is well‑equipped to serve both desert trails and relatively smooth highways in Saudi Arabia.
Specifications
- Engine: 6.4L V8
- Transmission: 8-speed AT
- Power & Torque: 470 hp, 637 Nm
- Fuel Economy: 6.9 Km/L
- 0–100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
- Main Features: 12.3’’ infotainment system, Rock-Trac 4WD system, Locking front and rear differentials, Removable roof, Heavy-duty Dana 44 axles
Price
- Starting Price: SAR 464,877
GMC Yukon
For those who prefer spacious luxury, style, and robustness in one package, the GMC Yukon Denali delivers. It’s high on comfort and presence while still capable of handling desert adventures and long highway drives, making it another strong contender among the best cars for desert and highway driving in Saudi Arabia.
Specifications
- Engine: 6.2L V8
- Transmission: 10-speed AT
- Power & Torque: 420 hp, 624 Nm
- Fuel Economy: 7.9 Km/L
- 0–100 km/h: 7.0 seconds
- Top Speed: 180 km/h
- Main Features: 16.8’’ infotainment, Full-time 4WD with selectable drive modes, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Advanced safety features
Price
- Starting Price: SAR 362,000
Quick Comparison Table
| Car Model | Engine | Power & Torque | Fuel Economy | Main Features | Price (SAR) |
| Toyota Land Cruiser 70 VX | 3.5L Hybrid V6 | 457 hp, 790 Nm | 11.2 Km/L | 12.3’’ infotainment, Toyota Safety Sense, Full-time 4WD, Multi-terrain Select | 393,070 |
| Nissan Patrol SE Platinum | 3.8L V6 | 316 hp, 386 Nm | 9.7 Km/L | 14.3’’ infotainment, 4WD with Terrain Mode, Hydraulic body motion control | 380,999 |
| Ford Bronco Wildtrak | 2.3L Ecoboost I4 | 275 hp, 427 Nm | 12.0 Km/L | SYNC 4, Advanced 4×4 system, Digital display instrument cluster | 193,315 |
| Jeep Wrangler Rubicon | 6.4L V8 | 470 hp, 637 Nm | 6.9 Km/L | 12.3’’ infotainment, Rock-Trac 4WD system, Locking front and rear differentials | 464,877 |
| GMC Yukon Denali | 6.2L V8 | 420 hp, 624 Nm | 7.9 Km/L | 16.8’’ infotainment, Full-time 4WD, Magnetic Ride Control suspension | 362,000 |
Conclusion
Choosing the best car for desert and highway driving in Saudi Arabia in 2025 boils down to finding a vehicle that offers the perfect mix of ruggedness, comfort, and advanced features. Whether you’re drawn to the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser or the modern appeal of the Ford Bronco, each of these vehicles excels in navigating the challenges of the desert while ensuring a smooth ride on highways.
If you’re also exploring cars suited for specific needs, like those ideal for women in Saudi Arabia, check out this blog on the best cars for women in KSA.
FAQs
Do I need a 4WD vehicle for desert driving in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, a proper 4WD with low-range gearing is highly recommended for dunes and rough desert terrain.
Are hybrid or electric SUVs suitable for desert and highway use in Saudi Arabia?
They can be, but traditional petrol engines and proven 4WD systems are still the best for desert use.
What key features should I look for in a desert-ready SUV?
Look for high ground clearance, locking differentials, off-road modes, rugged suspension, and cooling for hot, sandy terrain.
Does driving on highways affect how a desert-ready SUV performs?
Desert vehicles need smooth highway manners too; balance off-road grit with on-road comfort for the best all-around performance.
Stay tuned to Arabwheels for the latest automotive trends.