There is a familiar feel to Patons Taxi Sales’ top five used cars for PHVs in 2026. In fact, four of last year’s top picks make it on to our shortlist once again.
Despite the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles looming, internal-combustion engine vehicles remain among the top choices for private-hire drivers who are looking for affordability, practicality and reliability.
While EVs can help drivers save money on congestion charges and clean air zones, the pay-per mile excise duty being introduced in 2028 means making the switch isn’t the straight run many expected it to be.
5. Mercedes-Benz E-Class & Hyundai Ioniq
This year’s fifth spot is reserved for two vehicles which generate plenty of interest.
Hyundai’s discontinued Ioniq remains in the top five after occupying second place last year. It is reliable, economical and comes with plenty of technology and is often requested by taxi drivers.
The new entry into the top-five, the Mercedes-Benz E Class, is popular among European taxi drivers for comfort, reliability, low operating costs and its durability. In fact, Mercedes used to produce models specifically for the taxi trade in Germany.
4. Skoda Octavia Estate (diesel)
The Skoda Octavia keeps its place in the top five for a third year and remains a reliable go-to for taxi drivers with its huge boot space (640 litres normal load and 1,700 litres with the back seats down).
Technology includes safety and entertainment systems, but the real appeal is the economical 56mpg delivered by the diesel powertrain.
3. Kia Niro Hybrid
The stylish Kia Niro has risen one spot from last year to replace Toyota’s Prius in third place.
The fuel economy delivered by its hybrid engine once again makes it a popular choice among PHV drivers. It also offers decent cabin space for the driver and passengers and comes full of technology to improve safety and comfort.
2. Suzuki Swace
This collaboration saw Suzuki and Toyota produce the Corolla estate with a Suzuki badge.
It’s no surprise that it is also very popular among PHV drivers and includes many of the same features as its stablemate. It is less refined than its slightly more expensive cousin, but remains popular among PHV drivers, even though it has been discontinued.
1. Toyota Corolla
Retaining the top spot for the third year in a row, Toyota’s roomy and economical estate remains hugely popular.
The efficient 1.8-litre petrol hybrid engine makes it suitable for town and city driving, as well as longer journeys. They are comfortable, reliable, and include plenty of technology to make driving more comfortable and enjoyable.
Patons Taxi Sales manager Andy Roberts said: “The rising price of fuel and the EV deadline means taxi drivers are even more aware of running costs and reliability when they look to replace their cars.
“For years, the Prius was the go-to vehicle for PHV drivers and now it’s the Corolla for many of the same reasons. Running costs are low and there isn’t any difficulty getting parts for repairs and servicing.
“There’s a lot of focus on EVs beyond 2030, but dependable diesels such as the Skoda are still very popular, especially with the huge boot room.
“I also get a lot of inquiries about the Mercedes E-Class and for the Ioniq, which is more difficult to find but is still proving popular, which is why we’ve made the fifth spot a bit different this year.”
