Choosing a luxury hire car isn't only about the badge. The right car depends on who's travelling, what you're carrying, where you're driving and what the trip is for. Our fleet runs from compact to performance to saloon, so here's how to choose between the three main types for a trip in and around London.
Start with four questions
- How many people are travelling?
- How much luggage, or equipment, are you carrying?
- Where will you drive: central London, motorways, or both?
- What's the trip for: business, family, or an occasion?
Your answers usually point clearly to one type.
The saloon: refined, comfortable and discreet
A saloon is the classic premium choice. It's quiet on the motorway, comfortable over a long day and has a separate boot that keeps luggage out of sight. Our saloons include Mercedes-Benz and BMW models.
Choose a saloon for:
- client meetings and business travel;
- airport runs with one or two passengers;
- long drives where comfort matters;
- an elegant arrival at a dinner or an event.
See saloon hire.
The SUV: space and a commanding view
An SUV gives you room for passengers and luggage, and a higher driving position that many drivers like in traffic. Our SUVs include BMW and Mercedes-Benz models.
Choose an SUV for:
- families and groups;
- weekends away with plenty of luggage;
- site visits with colleagues and equipment;
- airport runs with several passengers.
An SUV is larger than a saloon, so allow a little more room when parking, and check height limits in car parks. See SUV hire.
The performance car: when the drive is the point
Our performance range sits at the top of the fleet and includes the Range Rover SVR. It's the choice when the drive itself is part of the occasion.
Choose a performance car for:
- weddings, depending on the vehicle, and birthdays and anniversaries;
- a special weekend away;
- an arrival that makes a statement at a launch or an event.
Performance and luxury cars carry a £1,000 security deposit whatever the driver's age. See performance car hire.
Matching the car to the trip
| Trip | Best fit |
|---|---|
| Client meeting in the City | Saloon |
| Family weekend away | SUV |
| Anniversary dinner in the West End | Performance or saloon |
| Airport run, two people | Saloon |
| Airport run, family of five | SUV |
| Site visit with equipment | SUV |
| Wedding, depending on the vehicle | Performance or saloon |
Don't forget the roads
Wherever you're going, check whether your route enters the Congestion Charge zone during charging hours, and plan your parking before you set off.
Whatever you choose
Every hire comes with insurance for drivers over 25, a customer experience manager and our support line, open from 8am to 8pm. The car is inspected with you and photographed at collection and return.
Still not sure? Call us and we'll help you choose. Or see every car, with live availability, on our cars page.