I am starting a small private hire firm - what cars would you recommend? | Ask Honest John

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I am starting a small private hire firm - what cars would you recommend?

I need to purchase two vehicles for use in a new Private Hire business. I have been recruited for a 'bespoke' service which will provide work on a part time basis which suits our circumstances. Often trips will involve two or three people plus lots of luggage for airport runs etc but also local work travelling not more than ten miles each way with one person and no luggage. If I purchase two larger vehicles it will provide more options for the 'bigger' jobs but through the year the local jobs will provide 70% of the work.

I am considering the Ford Galaxy, Kia Sedona, Skoda Superb and Ford Mondeo (nearly new or auction) and would value your input for the role intended and best place to purchase AND if you thought one smaller vehicle, with suggestion please, might be better. Thanks.

Asked on 27 December 2011 by H

Answered by Honest John

Think seriously of a Mazda5 1.6D TS2, which is an (occasional) 7 seater, but is very comfortable and cheaper than a Galaxy. Think also of the Ford Grand C-Max and S-Max as well as the Galaxy.

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Ford Galaxy (2006 - 2015)

Good to drive and comfortable. Versatile with foldaway seats. Generally good quality. Diesel automatic option. Plenty of room in all back seats.

Skoda Superb (2008 - 2015)

Limousine-like amounts of rear legroom. Clever dual tailgate means it's both a hatch and a saloon. GreenLine model is very economical. A lot of car for the money.