I've had two regular drivers for many years. Car is rmb600 per day, van is rmb800 per day. Neither speak English.

With US$1 now worth only RMB7, paying $130 for a van is pretty reasonable, especially if the driver speaks English.

Taxis are cheaper but then you need to deal with language, where to go, which is the most efficient routes, etc. I would suggest you stick with your original plans and enjoy your visit