In everyday language, “black car” and “limo” are often used interchangeably, but they traditionally mean different things. Black car service refers to pre-booked, chauffeured transportation in luxury sedans and SUVs — typically point-to-point trips like airport transfers and business travel, often billed to corporate accounts. Limousine service traditionally means stretch limousines and formal vehicles booked by the hour for occasions like weddings, proms and nights out. Today, many companies — including ours — offer executive sedans, SUVs and vans for both purposes.

Side by side

Black car service Limousine service (traditional)
Vehicles Luxury sedans and SUVs Stretch limousines, party vehicles
Typical booking Point-to-point Hourly with minimums
Typical uses Airports, business, everyday luxury Weddings, proms, celebrations
Image Discreet, professional Celebratory, eye-catching
Regulation (NYC) TLC black car bases TLC luxury limousine bases

Where the terms came from

“Black car” grew out of New York’s corporate car services, which used black sedans to distinguish themselves from yellow cabs. “Limousine” comes from the formal chauffeured car style — and later the stretch limo. Read the history of black car service in NYC and the history of the limousine.

Today’s reality

Many clients now prefer SUVs and Sprinter vans over stretch limousines, even for celebrations. Read the rise and fall of the stretch limousine and stretch limo vs Sprinter.

Which to book

  • Airport transfer or business meeting: black car (sedan or SUV).
  • Wedding or celebration: SUV, Sprinter or a classic car, depending on group size.
  • Night out: SUV or Sprinter on hourly service.

Read what is a black car service and see our fleet.