Rental Car Types, Models and Class

Car Class from economy, compact, mid size, standard, full size, premium, luxury, convertible, mini van to sport utility vehicle

There are many different car rental agencies, that offer many different types of cars. Car classifications are not consistent across companies and they may vary within the rental agency themselves; example : your personal car manufacturer may classify a model as a mid size, while a rental agency may classify the same model as a full size, so if you are new to car rentals always ask for clarification.

Most of the rental companies update their rental fleets frequently, so models may change. All Cars are Classified by 'Group' not by individual model types.

In other countries especially europe non air conditioned, manual transmission models are the norm. Air conditioned and automatic transmission models are usually available, but only in the form of larger, higher priced vehicles. As a result, opting for these relative luxuries costs usually 1.5 to 2 times more then the regular class vehicles.

General Classification of Cars

Economy Cars	2 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning
Compact Car	2 or 4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo
Intermediate Car	2 or 4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo
Standard Car	2 or 4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo Room to seat 5 passengers
Full Size Car	4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo 6-Cylinder Performance
Premium Cars	4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo Cassette 6-Cylinder Performance Tilt/cruise Control
Luxury Cars	4 doors Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo Cassette 6-8 Cylinder Performance Tilt/cruise Control
Mini Van	Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo 6-Cylinder Performance Tilt/cruise Control Room to seat 7 passengers
Sport Utility SUV	Automatic Transmission Air Conditioning AM/FM Stereo 6-Cylinder Performance Tilt/cruise Control Split Rear Seat

So now that you know what is available, it is time to make a decision on what you need, and when you need it, and also who you will rent it from. Here are some of the most helpful tips we could come up with, to help make you car renting experience more enjoyable.

Before You Rent

How long will you be renting? Make sure ask about special deals, and discounts. Some places will give you weekly or weekend special prices.

Internet Resources

Always shop around, even on the Web. Many companies often offer internet only discounts, take advantage of them whenever possible. If you're booking online or on the phone, make sure to ask about any restrictions, extra fees and don't forget to read the fine print.

Discounts

Ask about discounts for major national organizations like AAA, AARP, frequent flier programs and credit card programs you may belong to. If you're employed by a company that frequently rents cars, they may have a negotiated corporate rate. Make sure to check.

Get All the Details

Be sure you understand all the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for a no show? How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup station? Is there a fee for additional drivers, must their names be listed in the contract?. For one way car rentals, ask about drop off charges, this is important, as they can be outrageously expensive. Always get a confirmation number. For airport car rentals, be sure to give the customer service representative your flight number and scheduled arrival time. This will usually protect your car reservation if the flight is delayed.

The Base Rate

The rate you see advertised in big print is most likely not what you will be paying. That rate will be increased by state and local taxes, airport surcharges, additional driver fees, insurance and gasoline bills and drop off charges, which could mean paying more than what you expected, please get it clarified.

Car Pickup

If your first drive will be from an airport to a hotel for the night, it is a good idea to take a airport shuttle to the hotel to save the price of day's rental. In major cities, you could probably pick up the car downtown. Even if you must drive the same day your flight lands, you don't have to necessarily get the car at the airport. By picking it up downtown, you can often avoid airport surcharges. Before you drive away with the car, inspect it carefully for any damages on the vehicle. Be sure the lights and turn signals are working properly. Check the mileage odometer. Report any defects to rental personnel at once.

Car Return

Be aware that returning the car early may be expensive because your rate structure may change. Also be sure the check in attendant inspects the cars body in your presence and that you agree about any damage. Examine your rental agreement carefully for all charges and make sure they credit any deposit to your account while you wait.