Singapore Car Rental vs Ride-Hailing: Which Is Better in 2025?

Should you rent a car or just use Grab while in Singapore? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and costs of both.

Option 1: Renting a Car

Pros

• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Ideal for multiple destinations/day trips
• More cost-effective for families

Cons

• Parking and ERP fees
• Navigating unfamiliar roads

Costs

• From S$45/day for compact cars
• Additional S$20-50/day for parking + ERP

Option 2: Ride-Hailing (Grab, Gojek)

Pros

• No need to drive or park
• Predictable fares via app
• Ideal for short distances

Cons

• Surge pricing during peak hours
• Costs add up for long-distance trips

Example Trip Costs

• Airport to Marina Bay: S$18-25
• Marina Bay to Sentosa: S$12-18
• Day of tourist travel: ~S$90-120

Verdict

• For flexibility and cost-sharing: Car rental
• For convenience and short trips: Grab/Gojek

Conclusion

Match your transport mode to your travel style. If you're planning to explore beyond the city, car rental wins hands down.