The best cars for taxi drivers

When looking for your next taxi, there’s a lot to consider. One of the most popular makes down your local rank is probably the ŠKODA –probably because of its low original cost, low running costs and its reliability, all of which are important factors for ferrying customers around all day. Here are some other things to keep in mind.

What to look for when buying a taxi:

Five doors Obviously, passengers need to get in and out of the car easily, they don’t want to be climbing over the front seats to get in the back! Ease of access is also important – cars with a high step up to the seating or awkward spaces are far from ideal for those with restricted mobility.

Space for passengers Your customers need to have some legroom, so look for a vehicle with generous interior space. It won’t be an enjoyable journey if they’re sitting with their knees up by their ears - and they won’t choose you again.

Boot space Your passengers may have luggage, shopping, or pushchairs with them, particularly if you regularly pick up from an airport or train station. Ensure your boot space is ample, and not only will you have room for your passengers’ items, you can stow essentials like a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and antifreeze to be prepared for any roadside eventuality.

Fuel efficiency You don’t want to be filling up the fuel tank every half an hour, so you’ll need to find a vehicle that delivers on mpg. You can also keep control of rising car tax costs by choosing a car with low emissions.

Cost efficient maintenance and upkeep A used car may sound like a good idea, but will it be as reliable as a new one? Will servicing costs erase the savings you made buying the car? These are points that need to be considered. A used car in good condition is a sound compromise.

Cars to consider

ŠKODA Octavia

• Doors: 5
• Seats: 5
• Boot space: 624 litres
• Safety: Five-star Euro NCAP rating
• Used price from:£4688
• Max MPG: 74.3 (GreenLine)

VW Touran

• Doors: 5
• Seats: 7
• Boot space: 121 – seats up, 700 – seats down
• Safety: Five-star Euro NCAP rating
• Used price from:£4,988
• Max MPG: 61.4

Hyundai i30 Tourer

• Doors: 5
• Seats: 5
• Boot space: 528 litres
• Safety: Five-star Euro NCAP rating
• Used price from:£5,488
• Max MPG: 70

SEAT Toledo

• Doors: 5
• Seats: 5
• Boot space: 550 litres
• Safety: Five-star Euro NCAP rating
• Used price from:£12,488
• Max MPG: 72.4