A plug-in hybrid saloon, and the newest sedan in the fleet. It carries three passengers and three bags — the same load as our petrol sedan — and on the one journey both cars are priced for it costs the same. What differs is the drive.
What does the hybrid change?
In city traffic the engine switches off whenever the car is stopped, so a queue at a junction is silent instead of idling. Pulling away, it moves on the battery first: no clatter, no vibration through the seat, and no smell of fuel in the cabin. After a long flight that is the difference between dozing on the way in and not.
On a long run out of the city the petrol engine does the work like any other car. The quiet is a city-and-airport thing, which is where most transfers go.
How many people and how much luggage?
Three passengers with three medium cases, or two large ones with a soft bag on top. A fourth adult fits the seat but not the boot — for four with luggage take an SUV or a minivan.
What is on board?
Air conditioning, bottled water, USB charging and room for the luggage. Nothing on that list appears as an extra line on the bill.
Which car should I take instead?
For the lowest fare with two bags, the Hyundai Accent. For four people, the Toyota Land Cruiser; for up to seven, the Mercedes Vito. Larger groups travel in the 20-seat Sprinter. Take this one when the hour of your flight means the drive itself should be easy.
How is the price worked out?
One figure per car, not per person, agreed before you travel and fixed once it is. Three of you share one price rather than buying three seats. Tell us the date, the time and the two addresses, and the figure comes back with the confirmation.