This study investigates user perceptions of a demand-responsive transportation (DRT) service in a rural Swedish context, with a focus on autonomy and accessibility. It emphasizes the user experience alongside the service provider perspective to assess alignment between their goals and user experiences. Semi-structured interviews with users and providers revealed five main themes: service choice, user ­experience, perceived accessibility, perceived autonomy, and technology, with accompanying sub-themes. Users valued the flexibility of the X-line service, though they raised concerns about limited operating hours and challenges with technology, especially for older adults. Providers highlighted the benefits of on-demand booking and real-time updates but acknowledged issues such as longer wait times and capacity limitations that affected satisfaction. The study highlights gaps between user needs and provider intentions, particularly related to age and technological proficiency. While DRT services offer improved autonomy and accessibility over traditional public transport, limitations in flexibility, wait times, and reliance on digital platforms remain. The study concludes that the success of DRT services depends on user readiness and operational efficiency, with implications for the design of inclusive and sustainable mobility solutions in rural and small-town settings, and calls for further research to explore variations across geographic and cultural contexts.