There are many different types of limousines to choose from. The main types include sedan limos, SUV limos, stretch limos, Hummer limos, party buses, convertible limos, vintage limos, and electric limos. Each type offers different seating sizes and special features for your event.
This guide will show you each type of limo, how many people they hold, and which one works best for your special day.
Popular Types of Limousines
Sedan Limousines
Sedan limos are the smallest and most basic type of limo. They look like fancy cars but with extra room inside. These vehicles typically accommodate 3-4 passengers and are also the cheapest to rent.
Key Features:
- Holds 3-4 people
- Perfect for business trips
- Good for airport rides
- Lowest cost option
- Leather seats and tinted windows
Sedan limos work great for corporate travel and airport shuttle service. They give you a classy ride without being too big or fancy.
SUV Limousines
SUV limos are bigger and tougher than sedan limos. These high-class SUVs have room for up to six passengers. With their luxurious leather interiors and an array of amenities, they feature some of the most expensive interiors and comfortable spaces.
What Makes Them Special:
- Seats 6-14 people
- Higher off the ground
- More storage space
- Built tough for all weather
- Great sound systems
Popular SUV limo models include the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. These work well for wedding transportation and family events.
Stretch Limousines
A “stretch limousine” was created in Fort Smith, Arkansas, around 1928 by the Armbruster coach company. Their vehicles were primarily used to transport famous “big band” leaders, such as Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman. According to historical records from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, these early stretched vehicles helped establish the luxury transportation industry. Today, stretch limos are the most famous type of limo.
Stretch Limo Details:
- Holds 8-20 people
- 30-40 feet long
- Bar and entertainment systems
- Mood lighting
- Face-to-face seating
Stretch limos are perfect for prom night and birthday parties. The long design gives everyone room to celebrate together.
Hummer Limousines
Hummer limos are built for making a big impression. A hummer limo looks robust and exhibits a rugged look. It can easily accommodate more than a dozen people for its huge capacity.
Hummer Limo Features:
- Seats 12-24 people
- Very strong and sturdy
- Gaming systems and TVs
- Full bars
- Disco lights and music
These limos work great for bachelor party events and guys’ nights out. The tough look and party features make them popular with groups who want to have fun.
Unique Limousine Types
Party Buses
A limo bus, also known as a party bus is much more than a regular limousine. It can accommodate more than thirty passengers which makes it the largest among all the other types.
Party Bus Amenities:
- Holds 20-40 people
- Real bathroom inside
- Dance floor
- Stripper poles
- Big sound systems
- Full lighting effects
Party buses are perfect for large groups going to concerts or special occasions. You can keep the party going while you travel.
Convertible Limousines
This is similar to any regular limousine but it features an open roof surface. The operation of this roof is controlled by a remote system or a press of a button that makes it move inward or outward based on the need of the riders.
Perfect For:
- Nice weather days
- Parades and tours
- Getting attention
- Photo opportunities
- Wine tours
The open top lets you wave to people and enjoy fresh air while still riding in luxury.
Vintage Classic Limousines
If you like vintage cars with old-school bold design instead of sleek ones, then a classic vintage limousine is the right choice for you. It is available mainly as a sedan that can accommodate four passengers.
Vintage Limo Features:
- Old-fashioned style
- 4-6 passengers
- Classic car looks
- More leg room than regular sedans
- Great for themed events
These work well for weddings with a vintage theme or when you want that classic Hollywood feel.
Electric and Hybrid Limousines
The future of electric limousines in 2025 promises a seamless blend of luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. With extended battery ranges, AI-driven autonomous features, and fast-charging advancements, these vehicles are revolutionizing premium travel.
Modern limo companies are adding eco-friendly options to their fleets. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electric vehicle sales have grown dramatically, with global EV sales reaching 10.7 million units. Electric limos offer the perfect blend of environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology, making them a prime choice for the future of luxury transportation.
Green Limo Benefits:
- No harmful emissions
- Quieter ride
- Lower fuel costs
- Latest technology
- Appeals to eco-conscious clients
Limousine Seating Capacity Guide
Limo Type | Passenger Count | Best For |
Sedan | 3-4 people | Business, airports |
SUV | 6-14 people | Families, weddings |
Stretch | 8-20 people | Proms, parties |
Hummer | 12-24 people | Bachelor parties |
Party Bus | 20-40 people | Large groups |
Convertible | 6-12 people | Tours, parades |
Vintage | 4-6 people | Themed events |
The number of seatbelts provided in the limousine is its real seat capacity according to safety standards. Always check that your group size matches the safe seating limit.
How to Choose the Right Limousine
Consider Your Group Size
The first thing to think about is how many people will ride. For a high school prom night, the chosen limo must adhere to weight limits, which could reduce its passenger capacity. Don’t pack too many people in a small limo.
Think About Your Event Type
Different events call for different limos:
- Business meetings: Executive car service with sedan limos
- Weddings: Elegant stretch limos or SUVs
- Proms: Fun stretch limos with party features
- Large groups: Party buses or Hummer limos
Budget Planning
The rental cost of limousines differs from each other. Before renting a limo, you need to consider your budget. For example, Hummer limousines are generally more expensive than Sedans and SUVs.
Cost Order (Lowest to Highest):
- Sedan limos
- SUV limos
- Stretch limos
- Hummer limos
- Party buses
Location Matters
Know the pickup & drop-off location when choosing a limo. Suppose you are traveling in a city; you need a smaller limousine to travel on narrow streets easily.
For Chicago limo service, think about:
- Downtown Chicago narrow streets
- Airport pickup space
- Event venue parking
- Traffic conditions
Popular Limousine Features and Amenities
Entertainment Systems
Most limos come with fun features:
- Flat screen TVs
- Premium sound systems
- DVD players
- Gaming consoles
- Karaoke machines
According to Consumer Reports, modern entertainment systems in luxury vehicles have become increasingly sophisticated, though passengers should always prioritize safety during travel.
Comfort Features
Luxury touches include:
- Leather seating
- Climate control
- Mood lighting
- Privacy partitions
- Mini bars and refreshments
Technology Options
Modern limos offer:
- Wi-Fi internet
- Phone charging ports
- Bluetooth connectivity
- GPS navigation
- Satellite radio
According to luxury transportation experts, these lavish 200″ limos have super comfy Osrtiche leather seats, various televisions, and hooks easily up to your iPhone or other smartphones.
Special Occasion Limousines
Wedding Limousines
For your special day, choose limos that match your style. Popular options include:
- White stretch limos for traditional weddings
- SUV limos for bridal parties
- Vintage limos for classic themes
- Lincoln Continental for elegance
Prom and Sweet 16 Limousines
Young people love limos with party features:
- Colorful mood lighting
- Loud sound systems
- Space to take photos
- Sweet 16 limo service packages
Corporate Event Transportation
Business events need professional limos:
- Clean, understated luxury
- Quiet interiors for work
- Reliable timing
- Black car service options
Safety and Regulations
Passenger Limits
Legal passenger limits are set by local regulations and must be strictly adhered to for safety reasons. Never exceed the legal capacity.
Safety rules include:
- Everyone must have a seatbelt
- No standing while moving
- Follow weight limits
- Licensed drivers only
Choosing a Safe Company
Pick limo companies that:
- Have proper licenses
- Maintain their vehicles
- Train their drivers
- Carry insurance
- Follow all safety rules
For reliable service in Chicago, consider companies that prioritize safety alongside luxury.
The Future of Limousines
Eco-Friendly Options
By 2025, electric limousines will likely become the norm, providing clients with the same level of comfort and sophistication while promoting sustainability. Research from MIT Technology Review shows that electric vehicles are becoming more practical for commercial use as battery technology improves and charging infrastructure expands.
Green limo trends include:
- Electric motors
- Hybrid engines
- Solar charging
- Recycled materials
- Carbon offset programs
Technology Advances
Future limos may feature:
- Self-driving capability
- Voice-controlled systems
- Virtual reality entertainment
- Advanced safety features
- Smart glass windows
Personalization Options
Customization is another trend that will define the future of limousine transportation. Companies are offering more ways to make your ride special.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right type of limousine depends on your group size, event type, and budget. Sedan limos work well for small groups and business trips. SUV limos give you more space and style. Stretch limos are perfect for celebrations like proms and parties. Hummer limos and party buses work great for large groups who want to have fun.
Remember to book your limo early, especially for busy times like prom season and wedding season. Check the company’s safety record and make sure they have the right licenses. Most importantly, pick a limo that matches your event and makes your special day even better.Ready to book your perfect limousine experience? Contact a trusted Chicago limousine service to start planning your luxury ride today!