Delivering food as a DoorDash driver can be a great way to earn money, but your car plays a significant role in how profitable and stress-free the job is. A reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle can save you money on gas and maintenance, while a comfortable interior and good cargo space make deliveries easier.
If your car is too costly to maintain or uses too much fuel, you could end up spending most of your earnings on expenses instead of taking home a solid profit.
Choosing the right vehicle involves considering fuel economy, durability, and overall maintenance costs. Some drivers prefer compact cars for easy parking in busy areas, while others choose hybrid or electric vehicles to cut down on fuel costs.
This guide explores the best cars for DoorDash drivers, breaking down their benefits and why they make an excellent choice for delivery work. Whether you’re buying a new car or looking to switch to a more cost-effective option, this list will help you decide.
What to Look for in a Delivery Car
Before diving into the best car options, it’s important to understand the key factors that make a vehicle ideal for delivery work.
1. Fuel Efficiency
Since delivery drivers spend hours on the road, fuel economy is crucial. Cars with high miles per gallon (MPG) ratings will help you save money on gas.
2. Reliability
A car that constantly breaks down can cut into your earnings. Reliable vehicles require fewer repairs and keep you on the road longer.
3. Maintenance Costs
Some cars are inexpensive to repair, while others have high-priced parts and labor costs. Choosing a car with affordable maintenance keeps your expenses low.
4. Cargo Space
While food delivery doesn’t require much storage, having a decent trunk or backseat space helps keep multiple orders organized.
5. Comfort
Since delivery work involves long hours of driving, a comfortable seat, good visibility, and smooth handling can make the job more enjoyable.
Now, let’s explore some of the best cars that meet these criteria.
8 Top Cars for DoorDash Drivers
1. Toyota Prius
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Excellent fuel economy (up to 58 MPG city)
- Proven reliability with low maintenance costs
- Spacious hatchback design for easy order storage
- Hybrid engine saves fuel during long delivery hours
The Toyota Prius has been one of the most fuel-efficient and reliable cars for years. Since DoorDash drivers often drive in stop-and-go traffic, the hybrid engine is perfect for maximizing fuel efficiency.
Potential Drawbacks
- The initial price can be higher than other used compact cars
- Some drivers may not like the hybrid’s driving feel
2. Honda Civic
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Reliable and long-lasting
- Good fuel economy (up to 36 MPG combined)
- Spacious interior for organizing food orders
- Affordable maintenance
The Honda Civic is one of the most dependable cars for any type of work. It has a strong resale value and requires minimal repairs. The fuel economy is solid, making it a great option for frequent driving.
Potential Drawbacks
- Older models may lack modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Some trims have a sportier suspension, which might feel stiff on rough roads
3. Toyota Corolla
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Known for reliability and longevity
- Up to 40 MPG on highways
- Affordable repair costs
- Compact size makes city driving easy
The Toyota Corolla is another fantastic choice due to its durability and fuel efficiency. Whether you opt for the standard gas-powered model or the hybrid version, it’s a budget-friendly and efficient option for delivery work.
Potential Drawbacks
- Cargo space isn’t as large as a hatchback or small SUV
- Older models may feel a bit outdated in terms of interior tech
4. Hyundai Elantra
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Good fuel economy (33-43 MPG depending on the model)
- Lower upfront cost than competitors
- Comes with a long warranty (Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty)
The Hyundai Elantra is a great alternative to the Civic and Corolla, offering excellent fuel economy with a lower starting price.
Potential Drawbacks
- Some older models had reliability issues, so it’s best to choose a newer one
- Resale value is slightly lower compared to Toyota and Honda models
5. Ford Fusion Hybrid
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Hybrid system improves fuel savings
- Comfortable ride for long hours
- Spacious interior and trunk
For drivers who prefer a midsize sedan, the Ford Fusion Hybrid offers great comfort and excellent fuel economy without the high cost of some competitors.
Potential Drawbacks
- Some hybrid components can be expensive to repair
- Heavier than compact cars, which can reduce city fuel efficiency
6. Nissan Versa
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- One of the cheapest new cars on the market
- Good fuel economy (up to 40 MPG highway)
- Compact design for easy parking
For delivery drivers looking for a budget-friendly new car, the Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable options available. It may not have all the premium features of higher-end cars, but it gets the job done efficiently.
Potential Drawbacks
- Interior materials feel basic compared to competitors
- Not as powerful as other small sedans
7. Chevrolet Spark
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Incredibly fuel-efficient (up to 38 MPG highway)
- Very affordable compared to other cars
- Small size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces
The Chevrolet Spark is one of the smallest cars on this list, making it ideal for city delivery routes. It’s also one of the most affordable cars, which is great for new delivery drivers.
Potential Drawbacks
- Very limited cargo space
- Not ideal for highway driving due to its small engine
8. Honda Fit
Why It’s Great for DoorDash
- Hatchback design offers great cargo space
- Good fuel economy (up to 36 MPG combined)
- Reliable and low maintenance
The Honda Fit is one of the most practical compact cars for delivery work. It has a flexible cargo area, allowing drivers to store large orders easily.
Potential Drawbacks
- No longer in production (used models are the only option)
- Some road noise at higher speeds
Electric and Hybrid Options
With rising gas prices, some DoorDash drivers prefer electric or hybrid cars to maximize their earnings. Here are two excellent options:
- Toyota Prius (Hybrid) – Best overall hybrid for fuel savings.
- Chevrolet Bolt EV – Fully electric option with an estimated range of 259 miles per charge.
While electric cars have a higher upfront cost, they can be much cheaper to operate over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best car for DoorDash depends on your budget, fuel efficiency needs, and comfort preferences. Compact sedans like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Elantra are excellent choices due to their low costs and reliability.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Nissan Versa and Chevrolet Spark offer good efficiency at an affordable price. For those considering hybrids or electric models, the Toyota Prius and Chevrolet Bolt EV are strong contenders.
A good delivery car should help you maximize earnings by keeping fuel and maintenance costs low. No matter what you choose, prioritizing efficiency, durability, and ease of use will make your job as a DoorDash driver much smoother.