A car rental upgrade works by taking the class of car a renter is getting and moving it to the next higher class. In general, this is a perk that many rental companies may offer their regular customers. It is also generally offered in some promotions as a free upgrade, if available. However, most car rental companies will also offer any customer the opportunity to upgrade, sometimes several times, for a cost. For car rental upgrade deals, see additional Resources below.
Car rental companies price their vehicles based on the size and perceived comfort. Naturally, those cars of better quality are worth more in the rental market, just as they are on the sales market. In general, most rental car types fall into one of several major categories. Those include: sub-compact, compact, midsize, full size, premium, and perhaps SUVs and minivans. Upgrades usually only apply to the next higher class.
Car rental upgrades can benefit both the rental company and consumer. Naturally, the major benefit of a car upgrade for the consumer is getting a better quality vehicle to drive. In some cases, if taking advantage of a special promotion, this has the added advantage of being done at the same price as the lower quality vehicle. It means more space, the ability to transport more people, or the ability to travel more comfortably. Further, it benefits the car company because promotional upgrades are only given if there are cars available. In other words, they are not losing out on any additional rental charges, but they get a boost in customer satisfaction.
Rental upgrades may only be available in certain areas and during certain times of the year. In areas where competition is fierce, upgrades may be more available as companies compete for the same customers and wish to offer perks. In other cases, where there is not much competition, companies may feel there is no need to offer such perks. This may also apply around holidays and other busy times, when nearly all cars may be rented.
The fact that one may have a coupon or understanding for a free upgrade does not actually guarantee that one will be available. Most rental car companies reserve the right not to honor such a coupon if supplies of upgraded vehicles are limited. Therefore, nothing but the car class reserved is guaranteed. In some cases, a car rental company may provide a double upgrade at no additional charge.
Be sure to read the fine print and insist on full disclosure if getting an upgrade. In some cases, the price per day will be the same as the lower class of vehicle. However, there are cases when car rental upgrades will include a service charge or other type of fee that would not be assessed otherwise. Usually, the price will still be much cheaper than renting a higher car class outright, but it is far from being free. For more tips on car rentals, see additional Resources below.
