Taxis play a big role in helping people get around every day. Whether it’s a short trip to work or a longer ride to the airport, taxis offer a quick and easy way to travel without owning a car.
Across the world, certain cars are used more often as taxis. That’s not by accident. These cars are chosen for their strong engines, comfortable seats, and low running costs. Taxi drivers need cars they can count on, and these models deliver.
Some of these vehicles have become famous in big cities. Think of the yellow cabs in New York or the black taxis in London. These cars are built to last and carry passengers all day without problems.
In many places, taxi drivers spend over 10 hours a day on the road. So, it makes sense that they want cars that won’t break down often. Reliability is one of the biggest reasons why these cars are trusted worldwide.
Another important factor is fuel economy. Taxis cover hundreds of kilometers a day, and fuel costs add up fast. Cars that give good mileage help taxi drivers save money and stay in business longer.
Space is also key. Passengers often carry bags, groceries, or even pets. A good taxi needs to have enough room for everything without feeling cramped. Many of these cars offer roomy back seats and large trunks.
Comfort matters as much as strength. A rough, bumpy ride can make the trip uncomfortable. That’s why many taxi cars have soft suspension and seats for long rides, keeping drivers and passengers happy.
These cars also need to be easy to repair. If a taxi is off the road for too long, the driver loses money. That’s why simple designs and widely available parts are a big plus in the taxi world.
1) Skoda Octavia
The Skoda Octavia is well-known for offering lots of space inside. Rear seat passengers enjoy excellent legroom, often more than what some luxury cars provide.
This feeling of space continues when it comes to the boot. The hatchback version gives you 600 litres of space, while the Estate model offers a massive 640 litres.
Such a large boot is perfect for taxi drivers who often carry luggage. Whether it’s an airport trip or a shopping run, there’s room for everything.
The Octavia is also praised for being a very dependable car. Its strong reputation for reliability makes it a smart choice for people who drive a lot, like taxi drivers.
It’s also quite affordable to buy compared to many other cars in the same class. This makes it an ideal investment for drivers starting a taxi business or adding to a fleet.
Another big advantage is its fuel economy, especially with the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine. It can give over 60 miles per gallon, helping drivers save on fuel every day.
That kind of mileage is important for taxis, which often cover long distances each day. Less money on fuel means more earnings for the driver.
Driving the Skoda Octavia is also a smooth experience. It handles well in the city and feels steady and quiet on highways.
This makes it perfect for both short local rides and longer trips like airport transfers. Passengers enjoy the comfort, while drivers appreciate how relaxing it is to drive.
The Octavia also comes with features like advanced navigation, safety tech, and climate control. These extras make every ride more enjoyable and safer for everyone.
Because parts are easy to find and repairs aren’t too costly, keeping the Octavia in good shape is simple. That means less time in the workshop and more time on the road making money.
Also read: 10 Luxury Cars That Have the Longest-Lasting Interiors and Build Quality
2) MG 5
The MG 5 EV is a great option for taxi drivers who mostly work in cities. It offers an electric driving range of around 250 miles, which is enough for daily routes and short trips.
While it might not be ideal for long airport runs, it shines in busy urban areas like London. It’s especially popular because electric cars like the MG 5 are exempt from the Congestion Charge until December 2025.
That exemption can save drivers about £15 every day they drive into central London. If you work five days a week, that adds up to nearly £4,000 saved in a year.
Saving that much money makes a big difference for taxi drivers. It reduces daily costs and increases profits without sacrificing comfort or reliability.
The MG 5 is also one of the few electric estate cars currently available. Along with models like the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric and Peugeot e-308 SW, it offers a rare mix of space and electric power.
Its 580-litre boot gives plenty of room for luggage, shopping bags, or gear. That space is very useful for passengers heading to train stations, hotels, or shops.
The MG 5 also offers good value for money when compared to other electric cars. It’s more affordable than many of its rivals, which is great for taxi drivers watching their budgets.
In 2022, the MG 5 got a fresh new look with updated styling. It now looks sharper and more modern, making it a better fit for drivers who want a stylish taxi.
Driving the MG 5 is a smooth experience, with quick acceleration and quiet operation. Passengers enjoy the peaceful ride, and drivers benefit from lower running costs and simple charging.
Electric cars like the MG 5 also need less maintenance than petrol or diesel vehicles. That means fewer workshop visits and more time working on the road.
3) Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
The Toyota Corolla Touring Sports is a great choice for taxi drivers who drive long distances and don’t have time to stop and charge an electric car. This self-charging hybrid uses both a petrol engine and a small battery to make driving more efficient.
In city driving, the hybrid system really shines by using electric power at low speeds. This helps lower emissions and saves fuel compared to regular petrol or diesel cars.
The Corolla hybrid charges itself while driving, so there’s no need to plug it in. That makes it easy to use all day without worrying about charging stops.
This system is especially helpful for taxi drivers who make many short trips during the day. The car often runs on battery power in traffic, which saves fuel and cuts pollution.
It’s also a good pick for cities trying to lower emissions, since hybrids like this are cleaner. That makes it easier for drivers to meet rules in low-emission zones.
The Touring Sports version adds more space to the car’s rear end. While it may not match the huge boot of a Skoda Octavia, it still offers plenty of room for luggage and cargo.
The car’s seats are built for comfort, which is important when you spend hours on the road. Whether it’s a short local ride or a longer journey, the Corolla stays smooth and quiet.
The interior also feels modern and well-designed. Passengers can enjoy a quiet ride, and drivers benefit from a smart dashboard with easy controls.
Toyota has a strong reputation for making reliable cars. That means the Corolla is less likely to break down, which is important for drivers who rely on their car to earn money.
4) Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV is a smart choice for taxi drivers who want an electric car that’s easy to use and comfortable. It offers plenty of space, is well equipped, and saves money in places like London, where electric cars are exempt from the Congestion Charge until December 2025.
That exemption means drivers can save £15 every time they drive into the city. Over a year, those savings can really add up for someone working five or six days a week.
The Niro EV has an official driving range of 285 miles on a full charge. In real-world use, especially for city driving, drivers can expect to get close to that figure.
City roads are easier on battery range, unlike highways that use up more energy. For drivers mostly working in town, the range is more than enough for a full day.
Charging the Niro EV is also fairly simple and quick with modern charging points. Many cities now have fast chargers available, making it even easier to keep the car on the road.
The Niro EV offers 475 litres of boot space, which is enough for most everyday jobs. While it may not suit drivers who often do airport runs with large luggage, it’s perfect for city trips.
Taxi drivers who mostly carry two or three passengers around town will find the Niro a great match. It’s roomy enough inside and gives everyone a comfortable ride.
The car is also quiet, which makes the driving experience more peaceful. This calm ride is great for both drivers and passengers in busy city traffic.
Kia has also built a strong name for quality and reliability. That means the Niro EV is built to last and won’t need frequent repairs.
5) Volkswagen Touran
The Volkswagen Touran is a people carrier that still holds its ground, even though SUVs are now more popular. It’s one of the few MPVs left that offers a smart mix of space, comfort, and practicality for taxi drivers.
The Touran is known for being easy to drive and affordable to run. It also offers a smooth ride, which is important for passengers on both short and long trips.
What makes the Touran stand out is its seating. It can carry the driver plus six passengers, which is great for taxi services that take groups or families.
This extra seating opens up more earning opportunities for drivers. Whether it’s airport transfers, hotel shuttles, or city tours, the Touran fits more people with ease.
Even with its ability to carry seven, the Touran isn’t too big for tight streets. Its compact footprint makes it easy to drive in busy cities and squeeze into tight parking spots.
This is perfect for cab drivers who need space but don’t want a huge vehicle that’s hard to handle. It balances size and maneuverability well, which not many cars can do.
Though it’s no longer the cheapest option, it still offers good value for its features. The focus is on comfort, space, and practical use rather than flashy design or speed.
Newer versions of the Touran now come only with petrol engines that offer 150 hp. Diesel options are no longer available, but the petrol engines are still efficient and smooth.
Inside, the cabin is built with quality materials and designed for comfort. There’s enough legroom and headroom for everyone, which helps make every trip enjoyable.
Drivers also benefit from a well-laid-out dashboard with easy-to-use controls. This makes the car more relaxing to drive, especially during long shifts.
Also read: 10 Cars With the Best Massaging Seat Features for Long Drives
6) Ford Grand Tourneo Connect
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect is a smart choice for taxi drivers who care more about function than looks. Since it’s based on a van, it’s built to be tough, reliable, and ready to handle long hours on the road.
The “Grand” in the name means it’s the larger version, offering seven seats instead of five. That extra space makes it ideal for transporting groups or handling passengers with lots of luggage.
Despite its boxy shape, the Tourneo Connect is easy to drive and fits well on city streets. Its clever design gives you room for six passengers or four passengers with a huge amount of luggage.
This flexibility makes it great for airport runs, hotel shuttles, or city tours. Whether you’re picking up tourists or families, there’s space for everyone and everything.
Under the hood, drivers can choose between a 114 hp petrol engine or a 122 hp diesel. The petrol is better for city driving, while the diesel is great for longer highway journeys.
These engine options give drivers the chance to pick what suits their routes best. Both versions offer enough power to get the job done without wasting fuel.
The inside of the Tourneo Connect feels more like a van than a regular car. It may lack some luxury features, but it makes up for that with practical space and durability.
If you want to add a bit of flair, the Active trim is a good option. It adds rugged styling touches that make the van look sportier and more modern.
The high roofline also gives passengers extra headroom, adding to the comfort. Plus, wide-opening doors make it easier for people to get in and out.
7) Mercedes E-Class PHEV
The Mercedes E-Class Plug-in Hybrid is a great option for drivers who want to offer passengers a more premium experience. It’s especially popular outside airports in Germany and works well for business travelers or executive rides.
In the UK, the E-Class is usually seen as a luxury car, used more for VIP services than everyday taxi jobs. But thanks to the plug-in hybrid version, it’s now a smart and fuel-saving choice for many drivers.
This hybrid model gives you the option of driving on electric power for short distances. If you drive gently, you can get up to 70 miles of range without using the engine at all.
That electric range is perfect for city trips or picking up clients from offices or hotels. You save fuel, avoid emissions in traffic zones, and give your passengers a smooth, quiet ride.
There are two versions to choose from, depending on what kind of power you want. The E300e offers 230 hp, while the more powerful E400e brings 280hp for stronger performance.
Both models still keep the comfort Mercedes is known for, giving the driver and passengers a relaxing journey. The seats, suspension, and quiet cabin all add to a classy ride.
One thing to keep in mind is the boot space. Because of the battery, there’s less room for luggage than in other E-Class models.
So if you often carry passengers with big suitcases, that might be a small issue. Still, for daily city use or airport pickups with light luggage, it’s more than enough.
With its sleek looks, premium features, and electric driving range, the E-Class PHEV brings luxury and savings together. It’s a solid choice for drivers who want their taxi to stand out.
8) Volkswagen Multivan
The Volkswagen Multivan is one of the most spacious options for taxi drivers who often transport large families or groups. While it’s more expensive than other choices, the extra features and room make it worth the cost for many professionals.
From the outside, it looks like a van, but it drives more like a regular car, making it easier to handle in traffic or tight areas. This makes it a good balance between a work van and a family car, especially when used as a taxi.
One of the biggest advantages of the Multivan is how flexible the interior is. The seats can slide to create more legroom or be removed completely if you need extra space for bags or equipment.
This kind of setup is perfect for airport runs or city trips with lots of luggage. You can change the layout quickly to match the kind of ride your passenger needs that day.
There are also different engine options, so drivers can choose between petrol, diesel, or plug-in hybrid. The hybrid model is especially helpful for city driving, as it can lower fuel use and emissions.
Taxi drivers working in low-emission zones will find the hybrid version both practical and cost-effective. Plus, the engine options let you decide how powerful or efficient you want your taxi to be.
Another big plus is the sliding doors, which make getting in and out of the car easier in tight parking spots or crowded city streets. That’s a nice touch for passengers, especially those with kids or heavy bags.
Even though it’s not the cheapest vehicle, the Multivan offers a lot of value for its size and comfort. It’s built to carry seven people and their luggage without making anyone feel cramped.
9) Lexus ES
The Lexus ES is a great option for drivers who want a large, comfortable saloon that offers a smooth and calm driving experience. Its hybrid system makes it fuel-efficient and cleaner to run compared to regular petrol or diesel cars.
Inside the Lexus ES, everything feels premium and well-built, giving passengers a sense of luxury during their journey. The front seats are especially relaxing, and there’s lots of legroom in the back for added comfort.
One of the best parts about the ES is its quiet cabin, which helps make every drive peaceful and enjoyable. Whether you’re taking someone across town or cruising on the motorway, the ride always feels smooth and stable.
The car also comes packed with modern safety features to protect both the driver and passengers. From lane-keeping assist to adaptive cruise control, Lexus has made sure the ES feels safe in every condition.
The hybrid setup combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, and you don’t have to plug it in to charge. This makes it perfect for busy taxi drivers who want the fuel savings of a hybrid without the hassle of finding charging stations.
With an official fuel economy of around 55 miles per gallon, the Lexus ES helps reduce fuel bills while still offering good performance from its 218 hp engine. That makes it a smart choice for high-mileage users who value both comfort and efficiency.
There is one small drawback, and that’s the infotainment system, which some drivers find hard to use. But if you can overlook that, the rest of the car makes up for it with quality and reliability.
Also read: 10 Cars That Offer the Most Spacious Front and Rear Legroom for Ultimate Comfort
10) Citroen e-Berlingo
The Citroen e-Berlingo is a smart and functional choice for drivers who want lots of space and the benefits of electric power. With its tall design and boxy shape, it offers plenty of room for both passengers and luggage, especially in the larger XL version that comes with seven seats.
What makes the e-Berlingo special is its ability to carry families or groups in comfort while keeping running costs low thanks to its electric motor. Despite being an EV, it hasn’t lost any of the space or flexibility that made the regular Berlingo popular with taxi drivers and big families.
Inside, the seating is upright and comfortable, with wide windows that give passengers a bright and airy feel. The flat floor and sliding rear doors also make it easy to get in and out, which is helpful when picking up several people or loading items.
One thing to consider before choosing the e-Berlingo is the driving range. On paper, it offers up to 177 miles, but in real-world city driving, especially with the air conditioner on or a full load, it’s safer to expect just over 100 miles per charge.
This shorter range makes it more suitable for drivers who mostly operate within towns or cities, rather than long-distance highway trips. So if your job involves frequent short journeys or local shuttle services, the e-Berlingo could be a great fit.
Because it’s electric, the e-Berlingo is exempt from congestion charges in places like London until the end of 2025, which can save a driver thousands over time. Plus, it’s cheaper to maintain compared to petrol or diesel vans, which helps keep business costs low.
