Uber is set to discontinue its popular UberX ride category in South Africa next month, replacing it with a simplified selection of four ride options aimed at giving passengers more tailored choices.
The ride-hailing company has notified customers that UberX, which has long been one of its most widely used services, will be phased out from September 2026.
The change was initially announced for Johannesburg, where UberX was scheduled to end from 1 September 2026. The company has now expanded the change to customers across South Africa.
Uber previously described UberX as its flagship ride option, offering everyday trips at relatively affordable rates. The service typically used vehicles such as Toyota Corollas and accommodated up to four passengers.
In its latest customer communication, Uber described the move as a goodbye to its “trusty go-to” product, saying the company wants to offer a simpler and more personalised range of services.
Four Uber options replacing UberX
From September, South African passengers will have four main ride categories to choose from:
- Uber Go: A smaller, more affordable vehicle option designed for shorter trips.
- Uber Comfort: Newer vehicles with additional space, as well as the option to request a quieter ride.
- Uber Black: A premium service featuring higher-end vehicles and top-rated drivers.
- Uber Reserve: Allows passengers to schedule rides up to 90 days ahead, with upfront pricing and an on-time pickup guarantee.
The move comes as competition in South Africa’s e-hailing market continues to intensify, particularly in the budget segment.
Uber and rival platforms such as Bolt have increasingly targeted cost-conscious passengers, while concerns have also been raised about whether aggressive competition could affect service and safety standards.
Uber has faced criticism over some of its newer, lower-cost offerings in South Africa.
In January 2025, the company began piloting Uber Moto in Johannesburg, allowing passengers to request motorcycle rides at lower prices.
The service attracted criticism from road safety advocates, who raised concerns around passenger safety, motorcycle suitability and the availability of correctly fitted helmets.
The concerns highlight the broader challenges facing South Africa’s rapidly evolving e-hailing sector, where affordability, convenience and safety continue to compete for priority.
At the same time, Uber’s changing service offering has created opportunities for smaller competitors to target specific passenger groups.
Platforms such as Wanatu have positioned themselves around safety-focused transportation for women, children and older passengers, while services including ChaufHER, SheGo and Kgosigadi have developed offerings aimed specifically at female customers.
With UberX now on its way out, South African passengers will soon have to adjust to a new ride-hailing landscape — one where the traditional everyday option is being replaced by a more segmented lineup.
Main Image: Mobion
