As a Lyft or Uber driver, your vehicle is the most important part of your job. Not only does it need to meet Uber and Lyft's strict vehicle requirements, but it should also leave your customers happy with their ride.
Below, we'll cover what makes a great Uber or Lyft car and lay out the the best cars for gig work.
When you start driving with a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, there are particular features your vehicle must have:
First and foremost, Uber and Lyft require a vehicle to have four doors to qualify. So, it must be at least a sedan or hatchback with four doors. Coupes, regular-cab pickup trucks, and other two-door vehicles don't qualify.
You'll be doing a lot of driving as an Uber or Lyft driver, so you'll burn through plenty of fuel. Play it safe and find a vehicle with excellent fuel economy. If you can find a hybrid vehicle, you're in even better shape. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, Uber has launched a Green Future program that includes various incentives for drivers of fully electric vehicles. If you are worried about EV range, a plug-in hybrid may be a nice middle ground.
You're also going to rack up the kilometres as an Uber or Lyft driver, so you'll hit maintenance milestones quickly. Also, you'll run through a fair amount of tread on your tires in short order. Look for a vehicle with small or relatively common tire sizes to help you save on tire costs.
Unless you are doing UberPremium or UberBlack, try to avoid vehicles requiring special oils or filters, as these can get expensive quickly. Anything from premium luxury automakers like BMW or Mercedes-Benz will likely require these special oils or filters.
You also want vehicles with reputations for reliability. Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are three brands that often have reputations for reliability.
Beyond the must-have items for an Uber or Lyft car in Canada, there are a few nice-to-have items. Here are a few features to keep top of mind when shopping:
Canada has cold and snowy winters, and you don't want a little of the white stuff to keep you from earning. Having all-wheel or four-wheel drive will put you a step above the rest because you can get good traction in even the messiest winter storm.
Just keep in mind that four-wheel and all-wheel drive only help you when accelerating or going up a hill. It won't enhance your traction in a snowy corner.
You're going to be on the road more than most drivers, so you're bound to find yourself in hairy situations. Advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and rearview cameras are great ways to avoid these situations altogether.
As an Uber or Lyft driver, you want to always get the highest ratings and big tips. What better way to earn these than by pleasing your passengers? You can increase your passengers' happiness by having some advanced entertainment features, such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or SiriusXM satellite radio.
With Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can easily play your passenger's favourite music genre via Stitcher or other streaming service. If you have SiriusXM, you can find their favourite channel and let them soak up their favourite tunes on their ride.
Driving for Uber and Lyft in Canada means facing unique challenges such as harsh winters, fluctuating gas prices, and long-distance trips between cities or suburbs. If you’re searching for the best car for Uber and Lyft in Canada, these vehicles deliver the perfect combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and versatility. They qualify for multiple service tiers, making them ideal for maximizing your earnings on the road.
Fuel Economy: 4.9 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
The Toyota Camry Hybrid ranks among the best cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada because of its unbeatable reliability, comfort, and cost efficiency. Its well-insulated cabin keeps passengers warm during frigid Canadian winters, while its spacious interior ensures plenty of legroom for long-distance rides. Heated seats, standard in most Canadian trims, are a huge plus for both drivers and passengers.
Its hybrid powertrain averages 4.9 L/100 km, keeping fuel costs low—a critical factor given Canada’s fluctuating gas prices. Eligible for Uber Green in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, it appeals to eco-conscious riders while helping drivers boost income.
Although the Camry Hybrid is front-wheel drive (FWD), its stability control and all-season driving performance handle snowy and icy conditions exceptionally well. Add winter tires, and you’ll have one of the best cars for Uber drivers in Canada during winter.
Shop used Toyota Camry Hybrid models on Clutch.
Fuel Economy: 5.0 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
The Honda Accord Hybrid consistently ranks as one of the best cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada due to its fuel efficiency, comfort, and upscale cabin. Its roomy rear seats and high-quality interior materials ensure five-star passenger ratings, while features like heated seats and dual-zone climate control make winter driving more comfortable.
A fuel economy of 5.0 L/100 km means drivers can handle more trips without frequent stops at the pump. In busy Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, where long commutes and stop-and-go traffic are common, its fuel efficiency shines.
Additionally, Honda’s advanced safety features—adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking—add peace of mind when driving through snowy or icy roads. These features help make the Accord Hybrid one of the best cars for Uber drivers in Canada, combining comfort and reliability.
Shop used Honda Accord Hybrid models on Clutch.
Fuel Economy: 7.1 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Comfort, UberXL, Uber Green
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is among the best cars for UberXL in Canada because of its spacious interior and all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability. This SUV excels wherever icy roads and heavy snowfall are common. Its raised ground clearance helps tackle snow-covered streets, while its large cargo space is ideal for airport or family rides.
Its fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km is impressive for an SUV, especially when handling long-distance highway trips between Canadian cities or suburban areas. Its hybrid system provides electric support for low-speed driving, making it more efficient in urban environments with heavy traffic.
The Santa Fe Hybrid qualifies for UberX, Uber Comfort, and even UberXL, enabling drivers to accept more ride types and boost earnings. Canadian trims often come with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced safety tech, making it one of the best SUVs for Uber and Lyft drivers in Canada.
Shop used Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid models on Clutch.
Fuel Economy: 6.7 L/100 km
Best Tiers: Uber Comfort, UberXL, Uber Green
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid stands out as one of the best cars for UberXL in Canada, offering a rare combination of spaciousness, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. Its three-row seating comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers, making it ideal for large group rides or airport pickups. Unlike many SUVs in its class, the Highlander Hybrid excels in urban environments thanks to its smooth hybrid powertrain and responsive handling.
One of its key advantages is its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which provides exceptional grip on snowy or icy roads—a must-have for rideshare drivers operating in Canadian cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal during winter. The Highlander Hybrid’s ground clearance also helps navigate poorly plowed streets and slippery intersections, ensuring safe and steady rides even in harsh weather.
Inside, the Highlander Hybrid features a premium cabin with high-quality materials, offering a quiet and comfortable experience for both drivers and passengers. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control are standard on many Canadian models, making cold-weather rides more enjoyable. Its 6.7 L/100 km fuel economy is particularly impressive for a three-row SUV, keeping running costs low while maximizing ride coverage.
Shop used Toyota Highlander Hybrid models on Clutch.
Fuel efficiency is one of the most critical factors for Uber and Lyft drivers in Canada. With fluctuating gas prices and long hours on the road, choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle can significantly lower operating costs. These cars combine excellent mileage, low emissions, and reliability—perfect for maximizing profits while maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride experience.
Fuel Economy: 1.8 Le/100 km (plug-in hybrid)
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Green
The Toyota Prius Prime is often considered the best fuel-efficient car for Uber and Lyft in Canada thanks to its outstanding fuel economy and plug-in hybrid capability. Its electric-only range of up to 68 km covers many short trips in city centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal without using a drop of gas. This makes it perfect for stop-and-go traffic common in urban ridesharing.
What makes the Prius Prime especially appealing for Canadian drivers is its standard heated front seats and available heated steering wheel, ensuring year-round comfort even in the coldest months. With a fuel economy of 1.8 Le/100 km (combined electric and gas usage), it delivers unmatched efficiency, minimizing trips to the pump and maximizing net earnings.
Its hatchback design also adds practical cargo space for airport pickups or luggage-heavy rides. Eligible for Uber Green, the Prius Prime appeals to eco-conscious passengers while helping drivers reduce operational costs through fewer fuel stops and lower emissions.
Shop used Toyota Prius models on Clutch.
Range: Up to 488 km (electric)
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a fully electric vehicle (EV) that has quickly become one of the best electric cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada. With a driving range of up to 488 km on a single charge, it covers multiple trips without needing frequent recharges, making it ideal for rideshare drivers operating in major cities like Vancouver, where EV infrastructure is robust.
Canadian winters can be challenging for EVs, but the Ioniq 5 features a heat pump system designed for cold climates, extending battery range even in freezing temperatures. Standard heated front seats and an available heated steering wheel ensure drivers and passengers stay warm during winter rides.
The Ioniq 5’s futuristic design and spacious interior set it apart from most EVs in its class. Its flat floor and generous rear legroom enhance passenger comfort, while its smooth, quiet electric ride leads to high customer ratings. It’s an excellent eco-friendly option for drivers seeking eligibility for Uber Green while keeping operational costs to a minimum.
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Range: Up to 499 km (electric)
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
The Kia EV6 is one of the best electric cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada, designed with passenger comfort and driver convenience in mind. It offers a spacious interior with plenty of rear legroom, making it ideal for longer rides or airport transfers. Its quiet, smooth electric ride ensures top-tier ratings from passengers seeking a premium experience.
The EV6’s long-range battery provides up to 499 km of driving on a single charge, reducing downtime spent charging during busy rideshare shifts. Its ultra-fast charging capability can restore up to 80% battery in just 18 minutes, keeping drivers on the road longer—a significant advantage for rideshare driving in Canada.
Winter-ready features such as a heat pump, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel make the EV6 an excellent choice for harsh Canadian winters. With advanced safety features and driver-assistance technology, it ensures safer trips on icy or snow-covered roads. Its cutting-edge tech and premium interior design also appeal to passengers looking for a modern, eco-friendly ride.
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Fuel Economy: 4.5 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Green
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is the best affordable hybrid car for Uber and Lyft in Canada, offering legendary Toyota reliability, low running costs, and exceptional fuel efficiency. Averaging just 4.5 L/100 km, it keeps gas expenses minimal, allowing drivers to maximize profits even when fuel prices spike.
Its compact design makes it ideal for navigating tight urban streets in cities like Montreal and Vancouver, while its spacious rear seats ensure a comfortable ride for passengers. Heated front seats, standard in Canadian models, make cold-weather driving more pleasant, boosting overall driver satisfaction.
With a strong reputation for dependability, the Corolla Hybrid offers minimal downtime and lower maintenance costs, making it an ideal entry-level car for rideshare drivers looking for a fuel-efficient, long-lasting vehicle that qualifies for both UberX and Uber Green.
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Rideshare drivers looking to boost earnings should consider vehicles that qualify for UberXL. These larger cars can carry up to six passengers, unlocking higher-paying rides and group trips. In Canada, the best UberXL vehicles also balance fuel efficiency, comfort, and winter-readiness for safe and reliable driving in all seasons.
Fuel Economy: 6.5 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberXL, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
The Toyota Sienna Hybrid is one of the best UberXL cars in Canada, offering three rows of spacious seating and a hybrid powertrain that keeps fuel costs low. With room for up to seven passengers and ample cargo space, it’s perfect for airport runs and large-group rides.
Unlike most minivans, the Sienna comes standard with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, making it a top choice for Canadian drivers dealing with icy roads and heavy snow. Its 6.5 L/100 km fuel economy is outstanding for a vehicle of its size, allowing drivers to save money while accepting high-paying UberXL rides.
Passengers enjoy a premium experience thanks to its quiet cabin, soft-touch materials, and standard features like heated seats and a touchscreen infotainment system. If you want a fuel-efficient minivan built for Canadian winters, the Toyota Sienna Hybrid is a top contender.
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Fuel Economy: 9.6 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberXL
For drivers looking for a modern, spacious vehicle, the Kia Carnival is one of the best minivans for UberXL in Canada. Its bold SUV-like design, combined with its functional minivan layout, makes it a standout choice. It seats up to eight passengers with generous legroom and ample cargo space, perfect for large-group airport runs or family rides.
The Carnival’s fuel economy of 9.6 L/100 km is competitive for a vehicle this size, especially considering its robust V6 engine. While not a hybrid, its efficient powertrain provides reliable performance for extended rideshare shifts in cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver.
Inside, passengers enjoy features like reclining rear seats, a spacious cabin with premium materials, and a large infotainment screen. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel, standard on Canadian models, keep drivers comfortable in cold weather while providing a top-tier experience for passengers.
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Fuel Economy: 10.2 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberXL, Uber Comfort
The Hyundai Palisade is among the best SUVs for UberXL in Canada, combining premium comfort with rugged all-weather performance. With seating for seven or eight passengers, its roomy interior makes it ideal for group rides and long trips. Its upscale design appeals to passengers looking for a more luxurious UberXL experience.
The Palisade’s standard all-wheel drive and impressive safety features make it suitable for Canadian winters. Its 10.2 L/100 km fuel economy is reasonable given its size and power, making it a solid choice for drivers willing to trade slightly higher fuel costs for a premium rideshare experience.
Passengers appreciate its refined cabin with soft leather seating, dual-zone climate control, and rear-seat USB ports. Heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced driver-assistance systems come standard in Canadian models, ensuring comfort and safety even on the coldest days.
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Fuel Economy: 2.9 Le/100 km (plug-in hybrid)
Best Tiers: UberXL, Uber Green
If you want a vehicle that’s both practical and eco-friendly, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the best plug-in minivan for UberXL in Canada. It can drive up to 51 km on electric power alone, making it perfect for shorter urban rides. When the gas engine kicks in, it still maintains a competitive 2.9 Le/100 km fuel efficiency, saving drivers money on fuel costs.
The Pacifica Hybrid offers seating for seven passengers with generous space in all three rows. Its flexible Stow ’n Go seating system makes cargo management easy, especially for luggage-heavy airport rides. Plus, its electric drivetrain provides a smooth, quiet ride that passengers love.
Its standard features include a large touchscreen display, rear-seat entertainment options, and heated seats for front passengers. For eco-conscious rideshare drivers looking to maximize profitability while qualifying for UberXL and Uber Green, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is tough to beat.
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For drivers looking to enter the premium rideshare market, Uber Black and Uber Black SUV offer some of the highest earning opportunities. These services require luxury cars with premium interiors, all-black exteriors, and first-class passenger comfort. The following vehicles combine style, technology, and comfort, making them the best cars for Uber Black in Canada.
Fuel Economy: 5.2 L/100 km
Best Tiers: Uber Black, Uber Green
The Lexus ES 300h is a top contender for Uber Black in Canada, offering a perfect mix of premium comfort and fuel efficiency. Its hybrid powertrain averages just 5.2 L/100 km, helping drivers minimize operating costs while offering a high-end experience.
Passengers will appreciate its quiet, spacious cabin with soft leather seats, ambient lighting, and advanced climate control. The rear seats provide generous legroom, making it ideal for airport transfers or executive rides. Features like a power-adjustable rear sunshade and heated rear seats elevate the passenger experience even further.
For drivers, the ES 300h includes advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. With its smooth, responsive hybrid engine and luxury build, it checks all the boxes for Uber Black eligibility in Canada.
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Fuel Economy: 8.1 L/100 km
Best Tiers: Uber Black
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan remains a prime choice for Uber Black in Canada, offering unparalleled luxury and a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. Known for its elegant design and smooth performance, the E-Class delivers a premium experience that’s a perfect fit for high-end rideshare services.
Passengers can expect top-tier comfort with features like leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and ample rear-seat legroom. Heated rear seats and advanced infotainment options enhance the experience, making it ideal for executive rides, airport pickups, and special events.
On the road, the E-Class offers a refined, smooth driving experience thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. For drivers, the car’s suite of safety features—including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking—makes long shifts easier and safer. Its timeless style and reliable performance ensure it remains a strong contender for Uber Black service in Canada.
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Fuel Economy: 3.2 Le/100 km (plug-in hybrid)
Best Tiers: Uber Black SUV, Uber Green
The Volvo XC90 Recharge is the ultimate luxury SUV for Uber Black SUV service in Canada. Its plug-in hybrid system offers up to 53 km of electric-only driving, with a combined fuel economy of 3.2 Le/100 km. This makes it an eco-friendly option while maintaining premium status.
Passengers ride in luxury with available Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-end Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The XC90’s spacious three-row layout ensures VIP comfort for up to six passengers, making it ideal for corporate clients, airport pickups, or executive group rides.
Drivers benefit from Volvo’s industry-leading safety technology, including Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving, blind-spot monitoring, and cross-traffic alert. With its refined styling and tech-forward design, the XC90 Recharge sets a new standard for Uber Black SUV eligibility.
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Fuel Economy: 7.1 L/100 km
Best Tiers: Uber Black SUV, Uber Green
The Lexus RX 500h is a premium hybrid SUV that excels in the Uber Black SUV tier in Canada. With its luxurious interior, spacious cabin, and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, it strikes the perfect balance between style and practicality. Its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system ensures a smooth and confident ride, even on snowy Canadian roads.
Passengers will appreciate the RX 500h’s upscale interior, featuring leather seats, ambient lighting, and rear climate control. The second row provides ample legroom, while available captain’s chairs enhance comfort for group rides or executive trips.
For drivers, the RX 500h delivers a quiet and responsive driving experience with advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera. Its fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km makes it an eco-conscious luxury choice while maintaining the high standards required for Uber Black SUV service.
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For new rideshare drivers or those looking to maximize profits on a budget, choosing an affordable yet reliable vehicle is essential. These cars offer low purchase costs, excellent fuel economy, and long-term reliability—ideal for anyone getting started with Uber or Lyft in Canada.
Fuel Economy: 6.7 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX
The Honda Civic is one of the best budget-friendly cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada, known for its long-term reliability and excellent fuel economy. Its spacious interior and comfortable seating ensure a pleasant experience for both drivers and passengers.
With a fuel economy of 6.7 L/100 km, the Civic keeps fuel costs low, even when gas prices rise. Its responsive handling and smooth ride make city driving easy, while its roomy back seats provide ample legroom for riders, boosting driver ratings.
Standard features on Canadian models include heated front seats, a modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced safety tech like lane-keeping assist. This well-rounded car is perfect for new drivers looking to keep operating costs low while providing a high-quality rideshare experience.
Shop used Honda Civic models on Clutch.
Fuel Economy: 6.9 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX
The Kia Forte stands out as one of the most affordable compact sedans in Canada, offering exceptional fuel efficiency and a modern design. Its stylish exterior and comfortable cabin make it popular among both drivers and passengers.
With a fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km, the Forte delivers great mileage for city and suburban driving. Its quiet interior and supportive seats ensure riders enjoy a relaxing trip, while drivers appreciate its intuitive infotainment system with built-in smartphone connectivity.
Standard Canadian features like heated front seats and available heated steering wheels make the Forte a practical choice for year-round rideshare driving. Its low purchase price and strong warranty add to its appeal, making it a top pick for budget-conscious drivers.
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Fuel Economy: 4.7 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX, Uber Green
For drivers looking for the best combination of affordability and fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is an excellent option. It delivers an impressive fuel economy of just 4.7 L/100 km, significantly reducing fuel expenses.
The Elantra Hybrid’s well-designed interior includes a spacious rear seat and a large trunk, making it ideal for both daily commutes and airport pickups. Its modern dashboard features a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration—all essential for managing rideshare tasks efficiently.
Standard Canadian features such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced safety systems ensure a safer and more comfortable driving experience in all seasons. Its stylish design and eco-friendly powertrain make it one of the best budget-friendly cars for Uber and Lyft in Canada.
Shop used Hyundai Elantra Hybrid models on Clutch.
Fuel Economy: 6.4 L/100 km
Best Tiers: UberX
The Nissan Sentra is another affordable sedan that excels in Canada’s rideshare market due to its low running costs, fuel efficiency, and comfortable cabin. With a fuel economy of 6.4 L/100 km, it’s perfect for city driving while keeping fuel expenses in check.
Passengers enjoy the spacious rear seats and quiet ride, making the Sentra a comfortable choice for longer trips. Its stylish interior features a user-friendly infotainment system and available driver-assistance technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
For Canadian drivers, features like heated front seats and available dual-zone climate control provide comfort in all weather conditions. The Sentra’s reliability, affordable maintenance costs, and solid resale value make it a smart investment for rideshare drivers on a budget.
Shop used Nissan Sentra models on Clutch.
Choosing the right vehicle is one of the most important steps when becoming an Uber or Lyft driver in Canada. You need a car that’s reliable, fuel-efficient, comfortable, and perfectly suited for the service tier you plan to drive in—whether it’s UberX, UberXL, Uber Black, or Uber Green.
At Clutch, Canada’s first online pre-owned vehicle retailer, we offer a wide range of cars that meet the specific needs of rideshare drivers. From budget-friendly sedans and fuel-efficient hybrids to spacious SUVs and luxury vehicles, our inventory includes cars that are ready for the road. Every vehicle undergoes a 210-point inspection and professional reconditioning process to ensure it’s in peak condition.
For extra peace of mind, we provide a 3-month or 6,000-km warranty with every purchase. You’ll also enjoy our optional 10-day or 750-km test-own period, giving you the flexibility to return or exchange your car if it’s not the perfect fit.
Explore our inventory today and find the ideal car to help you start earning with Uber or Lyft in Canada!
