Top 10 Vehicles for Ridesharing

Ridesharing allows those seeking rides to connect with available drivers in their vicinity via smartphone apps. The service is facilitated by ridesharing companies such as Uber, Lyft and Sidecar. By becoming a driver for a ridesharing company, you can use your personal vehicle to generate income.

Not all vehicles qualify for ridesharing duty. If you want to drive for Uber, you'll need a midsize or full-size four-door vehicle "in excellent condition" that's model-year 2006 or newer. Lyft requires that your vehicle be model-year 2000 or newer and "in good working condition." And Sidecar requires a vehicle that's "a two- or four-door car in great condition built in or after the year 2000."

Below are our 10 picks for new-car shoppers who plan on using their vehicles for ride-sharing. We considered factors such as fuel economy, ride comfort, cabin spaciousness and cargo capacity. Our choices are listed in alphabetical order.

Once you've decided on a vehicle, you may be able to simplify your transaction by making your purchase via Edmunds.com's Price Promise^® program.

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   1. Chevrolet Traverse

With seating for up to eight passengers, the Chevrolet Traverse is a good match for the driver seeking a vehicle that's capable of ferrying larger groups. This big Chevy also delivers a forgiving ride and ample room for cargo.

Its EPA-rated combined mileage of 42 mpg (which we easily topped in our extensive Edmunds fuel economy testing) means the Ford Fusion Hybrid will save you money at the pump. Other perks include good looks and a multitude of advanced technology and safety features.

The Honda Accord Hybrid pairs renowned Honda quality and reliability with a hybrid powertrain good for a stellar 47 mpg combined. Crisp acceleration and a spacious, high-quality interior make it a very pleasant car to own.

Luxury vehicles may command higher fares with certain ridesharing companies, and the plush Lexus RX 450h comes with the added benefit of strong fuel economy (up to 30 mpg combined). This five-passenger SUV also provides a tranquil cabin, comfortable rear seating and generous cargo capacity.

The Mazda CX-5 pairs excellent fuel economy (29 mpg combined) with a fun-to-drive disposition. Stylish sheet metal and spacious rear seats are also part of the package.

The Subaru Forester offers a spacious cabin, standard all-wheel drive and impressive fuel economy (up to 27 mpg combined). It's an excellent choice for the driver seeking a vehicle versatile enough to handle rough weather and off-road travels.

With EPA-rated combined mileage of 31 mpg, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, making it a great choice for the shopper who wants a roomy rideshare vehicle that won't guzzle gas at the pump. Also, its standard all-wheel drive and relatively strong off-roading capabilities make it well-suited for drivers in rural areas who may need to venture off the beaten path.

Its combined mileage of 50 mpg marks the Toyota Prius as a superb pick for the driver who prioritizes fuel economy. Other strengths include a comfortable ride, ample room in the backseat and plenty of cargo capacity for rideshare passengers.

The Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid offers the best highway fuel economy in the sedan segment (48 mpg), making it ideal for drivers who anticipate lots of freeway travel. It also features strong acceleration for a hybrid, as well as a roomy cabin and a smooth ride.

Diesel models are known for offering lots of torque and great fuel economy, and the Volkswagen Passat Diesel measures up on both counts. It offers a whopping 235 pound-feet of torque, and is EPA-rated for up to 35 mpg combined — a number we've been able to surpass by up to 10 mpg in Edmunds fuel economy testing. Other perks include a high-quality cabin and lots of passenger and cargo space.