A Comparison Between PCO Car Hire and Rent to Buy
PCO car hire and rent-to-buy are two practical ways to get behind the wheel of a private hire vehicle without much hassle. However, there are some differences between the two options and each has some pros and cons as well. Let’s look at them.
Article Highlights
In this article, you will learn about:
- Key differences between PCO car hire and rent-to-buy.
- Pros and cons of PCO car hire.
- Pros and cons of PCO rent to buy.
- Benefits of owning a car in a rent to buy contract.
- Which option is right for you?
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£450/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
MG 5
£115/week
MG HS
£250/week
Toyota Corolla
£200/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Toyota Prius Plus
£220/week
Toyota Rav4
£270/week
Key Differences Between PCO Car Hire and Rent-to-Buy
PCO Car Hire
- You rent the vehicle weekly at a relatively short term contract.
- You return the car without getting ownership at the end.
This is the most flexible short-term option for drivers who want to avoid long contracts and commitment. It’s perfect for those new to the industry or anyone who needs a car fast without dealing with complex paperwork or loans.
Rent to Buy
- You pay weekly instalments for 3 to 5 years.
- You own the car at the end of the contract.
- You can sell, keep or upgrade the car after ownership.
If you plan to stick with private hire work for long-term, rent-to-buy is a smart way to build ownership over time. It’s a little less flexible than PCO Car Hire, but you’ll end up with a car in your name, giving you freedom and long-term value.
Benefits of PCO Car Hire
- No worries about car devaluation over time.
- Flexible contracts, start and stop when needed.
- Easy upgrades, change cars when your work needs to shift.
PCO hire is perfect for drivers who want to get started quickly with minimal risk. If your circumstances change, you can return the car or switch to a different model without being locked into a contract.
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Cons of PCO Car Hire
- No ownership; you return the car at the end.
- High long-term costs with no asset building.
- No customisation is allowed. The car must be kept in its original condition.
Over time, the cost of hiring can add up significantly. For example, paying £250 a week means over £12,000 per year, and none of that goes towards ownership. You’re also limited in terms of vehicle modifications, as most PCO hire agreements don’t allow changes to the car.
Benefits of Rent to Buy
- You’ll own the car at the end of the contract.
- Every payment brings you closer to full ownership.
- You can sell or continue using the car after the term.
- In case of a change of mind or situation, you can get out of the contract by paying an early exit fee.
This option gives you full control in the long run. Instead of spending thousands on rentals, you’re investing in something you’ll own. Once the contract ends, you can use the car privately, continue using it for work, or even sell it to help fund a newer model.
Cons of Rent to Buy
While the rent-to-buy option offers a clear path to ownership, it comes with a few drawbacks, such as:
- It’s a relatively long-term commitment.
- You can’t switch cars during the agreement.
- The maintenance, repairs, and insurance costs will be on you after the transfer of ownership.
What Happens Once the Car is Yours (Rent-to-Buy Only)
- You eliminate ongoing rental costs.
- You keep more of your earnings.
- You can use it for personal or work use, or even sell it.
Note: After ownership, you’ll be responsible for standard car costs like insurance, fuel, servicing, MOT, and PHV licensing. However, you’ll no longer be making weekly payments, which means more of your earnings stay in your pocket.
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Which Option is Right for You?
Still deciding? Here’s a simple way to look at it:
- Go for PCO Car Hire if you want short-term flexibility, minimal commitment, and easy upgrades. Great if you’re new or unsure about staying in the industry.
- Go for Rent-to-Buy if you’re ready for long-term work and want to own your vehicle eventually. This option is ideal for full-time drivers who want more control and better returns over time.
PCO Car Hire vs Rent-to-Buy At a Glance
Need Help Deciding?
At Fleeto, we make it easy. Whether you’re ready to rent, buy, or just explore your options, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of PCO car hire in London?
The cost depends on the model and age of the car you choose. On average, renting a car for PCO use in London costs £250/week.
Can I use bus stops to drop off passengers?
No, you cannot use bus stops to drop off passengers. Doing so may result in a fine.
What cars are rented the most in 2025?
Here’s a list of cars rented the most in 2025:
- Toyota RAV4
- MG 5
- MG HS 2025
- Mercedes E300 2025
- Mercedes Benz EQE
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If you need a car today, contact Fleeto. We provide private hire vehicles on simple terms so you can start earning immediately. Whether you want to rent or own a car, we have a perfect plan for you with no hidden fees or unnecessary paperwork. Just pick a car, complete the process, and drive towards success.
