Forthing Friday REEV

Highlights

• Lowest running cost in class
• Best-in-class rear legroom
• Most advanced ADAS standard

Summary

The 2026 Forthing Friday REEV represents a strategic shift in the GCC automotive landscape, offering a Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) solution that eliminates range anxiety while providing the efficiency of an electric motor. This SUV is a standout choice for those who want the futuristic feel of an EV but require the versatility of a petrol engine to act as a generator for long-distance desert highway hauls. With its striking white exterior—a high-demand color for resale in the UAE and Saudi markets—it effectively reflects heat and maintains its aesthetic value over time. The REEV powertrain is particularly well-suited for the region's infrastructure, allowing for pure electric city commuting while the 1.5L range extender ensures you are never stranded during cross-border trips. Forthing has packed this trim with premium tech that usually commands a significant surcharge in European rivals, making it a high-value proposition for the tech-forward buyer. Given its model year and forward-thinking propulsion system, this is an ideal opportunity to own a vehicle that is ahead of the curve in both efficiency and regional suitability.

This Car vs Other 2026 Forthing Fridays

As a 2026 model year vehicle, this Forthing Friday sits at the absolute forefront of the brand's engineering cycle in the GCC. While many other units on the market may feature traditional internal combustion engines, this REEV variant offers a significantly more refined and quiet driving experience that aligns with modern luxury standards. The mileage on a vehicle of this year is typically negligible, effectively offering a near-new experience that has bypasses the initial steep depreciation of a showroom-fresh car. The white exterior is the most practical choice for the Middle Eastern climate, as it significantly reduces the thermal load on the air conditioning system compared to darker hues. This specific configuration is often sought after in the used market because it represents the most advanced powertrain option available for the model year. Choosing this over a standard petrol version ensures you are future-proofing your investment as the region continues its transition toward electrified mobility.

REEV vs Lower Trims

The REEV trim is the flagship of the Forthing Friday lineup, specifically engineered to provide the best of both worlds: electric efficiency and petrol-powered peace of mind. While lower trims rely on a conventional 1.5L turbocharged setup, this trim utilizes its 1.5L engine solely as a high-efficiency generator to feed the battery and the 204 hp electric motor. Inside, this trim adds a layer of sophistication that lower tiers lack, often including a more comprehensive digital cockpit and enhanced sound insulation to complement the silent electric drive. GCC buyers will appreciate that this trim typically includes an upgraded climate control system with more sensitive sensors, which is vital for maintaining comfort during the peak of summer. The integration of the 360-degree camera system and advanced parking sensors is standard here, whereas they may be optional or absent on entry-level models. Furthermore, the regenerative braking system on this trim not only improves efficiency but also reduces the wear on traditional braking components compared to the base models.

Friday vs Segment Rivals

The Forthing Friday enters a competitive SUV segment, squaring off against rivals like the BYD Song Plus and the MG HS. Where the Friday takes a decisive lead is in its specific REEV architecture, which offers a smoother power delivery than the MG's traditional gearbox while offering more range flexibility than pure electric competitors. For GCC drivers who frequently travel between Dubai and Riyadh, the ability to refuel with petrol while enjoying an electric driving sensation is a massive logistical advantage. The Friday also boasts a more aggressive, futuristic design language that stands out in a crowded supermarket or mall parking lot. Its interior volume is a particular highlight, providing rear-seat legroom that rivals vehicles in a larger size category. Additionally, the infotainment suite in the Friday is designed with a modern, smartphone-like interface that is often more intuitive than the legacy systems found in more established Japanese or American competitors.

Running Costs & Resale

The running costs for the Forthing Friday REEV are among the lowest in its class because the 1.5L engine operates at its most efficient RPM range at all times. In stop-and-go traffic in cities like Dubai or Muscat, you will primarily be using battery power, which results in negligible fuel consumption compared to a standard petrol SUV. On long highway stretches, the range extender provides fuel economy that typically exceeds 5.5L/100km, a figure that is hard to beat for a vehicle of this size. Maintenance is simplified because the electric motor has fewer moving parts than a traditional drivetrain, and the petrol engine experiences less stress as it is not directly driving the wheels. Authorized service centers for Forthing are expanding rapidly across the UAE and the wider GCC, ensuring that parts and expertise are readily available. Resale value for REEV models is currently trending upward as more buyers recognize the benefits of this technology in the local market. Expect a depreciation rate that is competitive with mainstream mid-range SUVs, especially given the popularity of white as a resale color.

Performance & Capability

With 204 hp and the instant torque characteristic of an electric motor, the Forthing Friday REEV delivers a punchy and responsive driving experience. The 0-100 km/h acceleration is smooth and linear, making it exceptionally capable for merging into fast-moving highway traffic on the E11 or E311. Front Wheel Drive ensures the vehicle remains lightweight and efficient, while the suspension is tuned to absorb the minor imperfections of city roads and the occasional gravel track. The drive modes allow the pilot to prioritize battery conservation or maximum power, depending on the requirements of the journey. While it is primarily a city and highway cruiser, the ground clearance is more than sufficient for high curbs and the sandy transitions often encountered in suburban GCC developments. The regenerative braking feel is adjustable, allowing drivers to customize how the car slows down when lifting off the accelerator, which adds a layer of engagement to the daily commute. Overall, the performance is defined by its quietness and effortless power, providing a serene environment even in the heat of a traffic jam.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin of the Forthing Friday is a masterclass in modern ergonomics, designed to accommodate five adults in total comfort. The seating is upholstered in high-quality materials that are resistant to the intense UV rays of the GCC sun, ensuring the interior stays looking new for years. A powerful air conditioning system is at the heart of the cabin experience, featuring rapid cooling capabilities that can bring the interior temperature down from 50 degrees to a comfortable level in minutes. The flat floor in the rear—thanks to the clever packaging of the REEV system—means the middle passenger has just as much foot room as those on the sides. Storage is abundant, with a large boot that can easily handle a weekly family grocery run or luggage for a weekend getaway to Ras Al Khaimah. Sound deadening has been a priority, with acoustic glass and extra insulation used to keep the noise of the external environment and the range extender out of the passenger cell. The panoramic sunroof, often standard on this trim, is equipped with a high-quality sunblind to keep the cabin cool during midday drives.

Safety

Safety is a cornerstone of the Forthing Friday REEV, which comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This includes adaptive cruise control, which is a massive relief for the long, straight highways that connect the major cities of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist provide an extra layer of security when navigating multi-lane junctions in high-speed traffic. The vehicle is built on a high-strength steel chassis designed to protect the battery pack and passengers in the event of a collision. Multiple airbags, including side curtain bags, are standard, providing 360-degree protection for all occupants. For parents, the ISOFIX child seat anchors are easily accessible, making it a safe choice for growing families. The electronic stability control is specifically calibrated to handle the occasionally slick surfaces of GCC roads after a rare rainstorm or during a sandstorm, ensuring the vehicle remains composed at all times.

The bottom line

The 2026 Forthing Friday REEV is the perfect bridge for the GCC buyer who wants to embrace the electric revolution without changing their long-distance driving habits. This white, high-spec SUV offers a combination of cutting-edge technology and practical efficiency that makes it one of the smartest value-for-money purchases currently available in the regional market.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.