When it comes to airport travel or business journeys, many people use the term “taxi” as a catch-all for any car service. But there’s a clear difference between a standard taxi and an executive chauffeur service — and depending on your priorities, choosing the right one can make a big difference to your experience.
At Ashbrook Executive Travel, we’re often asked if we’re a taxi company. While we serve similar purposes — getting you from A to B — the service, comfort and professionalism we provide go far beyond that of a typical taxi.
What is a Chauffeur Service?
A chauffeur service is a premium, pre-booked car service delivered by a professional, suited driver in a high-end vehicle. It’s designed for clients who value reliability, discretion, and a smooth, quiet travel experience.
What is a Taxi Service?
A taxi is typically a metered vehicle you hail or book short-notice. While convenient, taxis vary in quality and rarely match the luxury or reliability of an executive service.
Key Differences
- Booking Method: Chauffeurs are pre-booked, planned, and reliable. Taxis can be unpredictable.
- Vehicle Quality: Chauffeur vehicles are premium (like Mercedes E, S, or V-Class). Taxis are often economy-grade standard vehicles (like Ford, Kia, Nissan, Skoda)
- Driver Presentation: Chauffeurs are suited, polite and professional. Taxi drivers can vary widely.
- Pricing: Chauffeurs offer fixed quotes. Taxis run on meters.
- Purpose: Chauffeurs are perfect for airport transfers, business travel, and special occasions. Taxis are best for quick, local trips.
When Should You Choose a Chauffeur?
- Travelling to Heathrow or Gatwick and want to arrive calm and on time
- Business meetings where first impressions matter
- Special occasions where presentation is key
- Airport pickups where flight monitoring and punctuality are critical
Can a Chauffeur Be Your Taxi Alternative?
Yes — if you’re searching for a “taxi to Heathrow” or “cab from Tunbridge Wells to Gatwick,” an executive chauffeur service offers everything you need — with far more class, reliability, and comfort.
At Ashbrook Executive Travel, we specialise in providing a superior alternative to the typical taxi. We cover Kent and surrounding areas, offering executive-level airport transfers and bespoke chauffeur services.
Why settle for a standard taxi when you could travel with a professional chauffeur in a Mercedes? Contact Ashbrook Executive Travel today for a quote or to pre-book your next journey.