Best Cars for Taxi Service from the USA

Criteria for Selecting a Taxi Car from the USA

A car imported from the USA and intended for taxi service should meet several key conditions:

• Low Operating Costs: Fuel-efficient gasoline (or hybrid) engines that are easily convertible to LPG or are factory-adapted for city driving.
• Durability and Parts Availability: Mass-market models are preferred, for which spare parts are readily available and affordable.
• Comfort and Space: A large trunk and spacious interior are priorities in taxi services.
• Optimal Excise Tax: Avoiding engines above $2.0 \text{l}$ (high excise tax in Poland).

Recommended US Car Models for Taxi Service

The following models are the most popular choices among Polish taxi drivers importing cars from the USA:

1. Toyota Camry (2018–Present)

• Why for Taxi: Reliability, durability, and very high driving comfort. Hybrid versions are unmatched in terms of city fuel economy.
• Versions to Consider: Camry Hybrid (best choice), 2.5 L.
• Import Note: The purchase cost is higher, but it is offset by longevity.

2. Ford Fusion (Mondeo in EU) (2015–2019)

• Why for Taxi: A large, comfortable sedan with a huge trunk. Affordable parts, very popular at US auctions.
• Versions to Consider: Fusion Hybrid, 2.5 L (ideal for LPG conversion).
• Key Advantage: Ease of repair and adaptation to EU standards.

3. Chevrolet Malibu (2016–Present)

• Why for Taxi: Modern appearance, spacious interior, and dynamic yet fuel-efficient engines (usually $1.5 \text{l}$ or $2.0 \text{l}$ Turbo).
• Versions to Consider: $1.5 \text{l}$ Turbo (low excise tax).
• Key Advantage: Good value for money considering the year and equipment.

4. Kia Optima / Hyundai Sonata (2016–2019)

• Why for Taxi: Long warranty (in the US), reliability, and a high level of standard equipment.
• Versions to Consider: $2.4 \text{l}$ (with LPG) or $2.0 \text{l}$ Turbo.
• Key Advantage: A great option for those who appreciate modern design and a sturdy interior.

Costs and What to Look Out for During Import

Realistic Purchase Costs

For a car to make economic sense as a taxi, its total door-to-door cost, including repairs, should not exceed 70-80% of the market value of functioning models in Poland.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Serious Structural Damage: Risky and expensive to repair.
• Flood-Damaged Vehicles: Can cause continuous electrical problems, which are crucial in newer taxis.
• High Excise Tax: Avoiding engines over $2.0 \text{l}$ (excise tax of $18.6\%$ vs. $3.1\%$).
• Lack of History (Clean Title vs. Salvage Title): While Salvage Title is common, the extent of the damage must be carefully verified.