Uber has announced new changes to the eligibility criteria for vehicles operating under its “Comfort” tier, set to take effect from 1 June 2025. The update will impact existing and new drivers across the UK and is aimed at improving rider satisfaction by tightening vehicle age and model requirements.
What’s Changing?
From June, only vehicles registered from 1 January 2015 onwards will be permitted to operate under Uber Comfort. This introduces a rolling 10-year vehicle age limit, which will continue to be enforced annually. For example, from 1 January 2026, vehicles must be registered from 2016 or later.
Why Is Uber Making This Move?
Uber says the decision follows rider feedback, which highlighted the importance of newer, high-quality vehicles in the Comfort tier. According to Uber, premium riders place a higher value on vehicle age, comfort and overall ride experience. By meeting these expectations, the company hopes to increase rider satisfaction and boost driver earnings through more frequent premium journey bookings.
Vehicles Being Phased Out
Alongside the age restriction, Uber will also remove several vehicle models from the Comfort list. While existing drivers using these models can continue operating under the Comfort tier (until they change vehicle or exceed the age limit), new drivers onboarded after 1 June 2025 will not be allowed to use these cars for Comfort trips — even if the vehicle is sold and bought again.
The removed models include:
- MG – 5 EV, ZS EV, 4 EV, ZS, MG 6
- Hyundai – IONIQ Electric, Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid
- Mercedes-Benz – EQA, EQV, eVito Tourer, V-Class, Vito, B-Class, CLA-Class, Viano
- Lexus – UX, NX, NX Hybrid
- Citroën – E-C4, C4, C4 Picasso
- Renault – Megane E-Tech
- BMW – 2-Series Gran Tourer, 2-Series Active Tourer, 2-Series 225xe, 2-Series Gran Coupe
- Honda – Civic
- Volkswagen – Jetta
- Mazda – Mazda3, Mazda5
- Infiniti – Q30
- Mitsubishi – Lancer
- Volvo – V50, S40
Impact on Drivers
This change is expected to push some drivers to upgrade their vehicles sooner than anticipated to remain eligible for Comfort rides. While Uber Comfort has traditionally offered better fares for both drivers and passengers, this update may squeeze out older or borderline-eligible vehicles, especially in the second-hand market.
Uber says the changes are part of its broader commitment to maintaining high service standards and adapting to evolving rider expectations.
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