Sep 2, 2025
Ever stood on a street corner wondering what are the types of taxi cars available and which one would suit your journey best? You're not alone.
Whether you're rushing to catch a flight at Manchester Airport or need a comfortable ride for a family day out in Preston, understanding the different types of taxi vehicles can make all the difference to your journey. From compact city cars to spacious people carriers, each taxi type serves a specific purpose and passenger need.
Let's dive into the world of taxi vehicles and discover which one's perfect for your next trip.
Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia, and Skoda Octavia represent the backbone of Britain's taxi fleet. These four-door saloons offer the perfect balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and space.
Most taxi operators choose saloons because they tick all the boxes:
Picture this: you're heading from Penwortham to Preston train station with a suitcase. A standard saloon gives you plenty of room without feeling cramped, and the driver can easily fit your luggage in the boot.
Key benefits:
Volkswagen Passat Estate, Ford Focus Estate, and Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer take everything great about saloons and add that extra boot space you sometimes desperately need.
Think of estates as the practical cousin of the saloon family. They're particularly popular with families heading off on holiday or anyone with bulky items to transport.
When to choose an estate:
The additional cargo space doesn't compromise passenger comfort. You still get the same smooth ride and professional service, just with room for that extra bag or two.
Ford Galaxy, Volkswagen Sharan, and Seat Alhambra represent the next step up in taxi vehicle hierarchy. These Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) can comfortably seat up to 7 passengers whilst maintaining excellent comfort levels.
Here's where MPVs really shine:
The beauty of an MPV lies in its flexibility. Most models feature removable or foldable rear seats, allowing drivers to prioritise either passengers or luggage space depending on your specific needs.
Real-world scenario: You're organising transport for your parents' 50th wedding anniversary celebration. An MPV allows the whole family to travel together, creating a more memorable and cost-effective journey than booking multiple smaller vehicles.
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, and Audi A6 represent the premium end of the taxi market. These executive vehicles offer an elevated travel experience with superior comfort, advanced technology, and prestigious brand recognition.
What makes executive cars special:
Business professionals often choose executive taxis for:
The additional cost reflects the enhanced experience and professional image these vehicles provide.
A long distance taxi service offers comfortable and reliable travel for passengers who need to journey between cities or cover extended routes with ease.
Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes Vito, and Volkswagen Crafter cater to larger groups requiring comfortable shared transport. These vehicles bridge the gap between standard taxis and full-sized coaches.
Passenger capacity:
Popular uses include:
The key advantage lies in keeping groups together whilst maintaining individual comfort levels. Modern people carriers feature air conditioning, comfortable seating, and ample luggage space.
Purpose-built WAVs ensure everyone can access reliable taxi services regardless of mobility requirements. These specially adapted vehicles feature ramps, secure wheelchair anchoring systems, and spacious interiors.
Essential features:
Many taxi operators now include WAVs in their fleets, recognising the importance of accessible transport in modern communities.
Tesla Model S, Toyota Prius, and Nissan Leaf represent the future of taxi transport. These environmentally conscious options combine reduced emissions with modern technology and impressive running costs.
Environmental benefits:
Forward-thinking passengers increasingly choose eco-friendly options, particularly for regular commutes or environmentally conscious travel.
Government incentives continue to encourage taxi operators to invest in cleaner vehicle technology, making these options increasingly available across the UK.
In the competitive Preston taxi market, South Ribble Taxis stands out through their comprehensive understanding of local passenger needs and diverse fleet options.
Operating in association with Village Cars and Tardy Gate Travel, they've built their reputation on providing the right vehicle for every journey across Penwortham, Lostock Hall, and Bamber Bridge.
What sets them apart:
Their 4-minute average response time demonstrates their commitment to punctuality – crucial when you're catching that early morning train or making an important business meeting.
Whether you need a standard saloon for a quick trip to Preston city centre or an MPV for a family airport transfer, their local knowledge ensures you get the most appropriate vehicle for your specific journey requirements.
Consider these factors when selecting your ideal taxi vehicle:
Journey distance and duration:
Passenger numbers:
Luggage requirements:
Budget considerations:
Special requirements:
Book ahead for specific vehicle types, especially during peak periods like Friday evenings or weekend mornings.
Communicate your requirements clearly when booking. Mention passenger numbers, luggage quantity, and any special requirements upfront.
Consider journey timing when choosing vehicle types. Rush hour traffic might favour more comfortable options for longer journey times.
Ask about fleet options when booking with local operators. Many companies can accommodate specific vehicle preferences with advance notice.
Understanding what are the types of taxi cars available empowers you to make informed decisions that enhance your travel experience whilst ensuring value for money.
Ready to experience the difference the right vehicle makes to your journey?
Whether you need a reliable airport transfer, comfortable business travel, or spacious family transport around Preston, understanding the types of taxi cars available ensures you always choose the perfect ride for your specific requirements.
Contact your local taxi operator today and discover how selecting the right types of taxi cars can transform your travel experience.
What's the most common type of taxi car in the UK?
Standard four-door saloons like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia dominate UK taxi fleets due to their balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity, making them ideal for most journey types.
How many passengers can different types of taxi cars carry?
Standard saloons accommodate 4 passengers, estates seat 4-5 people, MPVs carry up to 7 passengers, while people carriers and minibuses can transport 8-16 people depending on the specific vehicle configuration.
Are electric taxis more expensive than regular taxi cars?
Electric taxis often cost similar to standard vehicles for passengers, as operators benefit from lower running costs. Some companies offer competitive rates to encourage eco-friendly travel choices amongst their customer base.
What type of taxi car is best for airport transfers?
Estate cars or MPVs work best for airport transfers, offering generous boot space for luggage whilst maintaining passenger comfort during longer journeys to Manchester, Liverpool, or other major airports.
Can I request a specific type of taxi car when booking?
Most established taxi operators allow vehicle type requests during booking, especially with advance notice. Popular options include executive cars for business travel or MPVs for family groups requiring extra space.
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