What Is a Premium Car Rental?

In most instances, a premium car refers to a vehicle that is a step above an economy or standard car. However, premium cars are not the same as luxury cars, even though they are preferable to most vehicles on the market. 

For example, luxury cars are usually Ferraris, Lamborghini, Mustangs, or vintage vehicles. In contrast, examples of premium vehicles include the Audi A5 Sportback, Jeep Wagoneer L, Audi A3 Sedan, and Ram 1500. These are considered premium cars because reputable high-end brands make them, and they offer drivers more advanced vehicle features, improved performance, modern technology, comfortable cabin areas, and increased cargo space. 

Not everyone should rent a premium car because this type of service isn’t suitable for every individual’s transportation needs. 

Typically, premium car rentals are suited to drivers who want to use a more refined vehicle with high-caliber features and impressive exterior stylistic elements for a short time. Premium car rentals are also a good choice for individuals who don’t want to pay the higher costs of luxury vehicle rental or ownership. 

In addition, this option is not for those who want a vehicle in the short term through a subscription service with better benefits.  

There is a difference between a luxury and a premium car rental. A luxury car rental usually refers to renting a vehicle that is made by a luxury brand like Mercedes-Benz, Bentley, Cadillac, or Aston Martin. These vehicles are well known for their high comfort levels, exceptional craftsmanship, superior engine performance, state-of-the-art amenities, and high price tags. 

Those who rent luxury cars usually do so for special events and occasions for only a few hours or just a day or two. For example, if you host a 21st birthday party, you might rent a 1967 Cadillac convertible or 2023 Lamborghini Aventador as your luxury entrance and exit vehicle for 24 hours. 

It might not seem like it, but a luxury rental like this could cost you more than a premium car rental would cost for a month. After all, luxury car rentals can cost anywhere between $400 and $25,000 per 24 hours, while premium car rentals cost an average of $300 weekly or $1,200 monthly. 

Premium car rentals are a slight step down from luxury cars that are generally the highest rim level in their model lineup at a fraction of the price of a luxury model. They are usually equipped with plush interiors, noteworthy technological features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and exemplary safety features. However, these features and amenities are just not as plentiful or expensive as luxury cars – even at their base trim levels.

When renting a standard car, you can expect a basic, practical vehicle suitable for everyday use or a road trip. In contrast, choosing from a line of premium cars will include a better selection of some of the latest and greatest cars on the market, encompassing top-tier brands and models. 

Premium rentals also boast advanced features, superior performance, and exquisite interiors that elevate one’s driving experience far more than standard car rentals. Additionally, while standard rentals focus on affordability and practicality, premium options cater to clientele seeking comfort, style, and prestige. 

The price disparity reflects the enhanced quality, exclusive service, and abundant amenities associated with premium rentals – especially compared to standard rentals that cost far less monthly. 

Unsure about which premium car model you should rent? Below are three of the best premium car models worth renting or subscribing to with FINN. Each vehicle has been carefully selected because of its premium quality features, amenities, and looks. 

You can rent a premium car in the USA from many of the best car rental companies. Some of the top choices among drivers include Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Turo, Hertz, Avis, Dollar, and Alamo. However, when choosing where to rent a premium car, keep these things in mind: 

• Only rent from a reputable car agency. This will ensure you receive a reliable and stress-free experience. Reputable agencies prioritize customer satisfaction, offering well-maintained vehicles with clear terms and fair pricing. 
• Choose rental agencies that provide transparent contracts. This will make sure no hidden fees or deceptive practices come into play while you’re renting one of their vehicles. 
• Don’t forget about accessibility and coverage. Agencies worth renting from will often have a network of locations, robust customer support, and comprehensive insurance options.

Now that you know what to consider when debating renting a premium car, you’re likely curious to learn more about the rental process. Have a look below to learn how to rent a premium vehicle: 

1. Start your rental journey by researching rental agencies online or in your local area. 

2. Once you’ve found a few places offering premium vehicle rentals, compare prices, terms, and vehicle options. This will help you identify the car you should drive off the lot with. 

3. With a vehicle choice nailed down, the next step will involve visiting the dealership or rental agency to take the vehicle for a test drive. Alternatively, you can reserve your chosen vehicle online or by phone, providing necessary personal and payment information. 

4. Next, earn the deposit amount and how to pay it. Often, premium vehicle rentals aren’t like car subscriptions offered by companies like FINN. When you choose a rental agency, you must pay an upfront deposit that can vary based on the vehicle you want to drive. 

5. After learning what the deposit is and paying it, find out the mileage restrictions. Some premium rental cars have mileage limits that you cannot exceed weekly or monthly. You’ll likely be required to pay additional fees if you exceed these limits. 

6. Before driving away in your rental, consider additional services like insurance coverage. After all, you don’t want to get into a rental car accident and be responsible for repairs. Often, premium car rental agencies will make you pay extra for insurance, so keep this in mind.

7. Lastly, don’t forget to inspect the vehicle thoroughly before accepting it, noting any existing damage.

As you can tell, renting a vehicle is quite involved, which is why many consider it a headache and not worth the time. If you believe you might feel the same way, consider finding your perfect premium car with a FINN car subscription. 

Unlike car rentals, FINN’s subscription process is far simpler and easy to undertake. You only need a handful of minutes to sign up and lock in the car you want to drive. Best of all, you don’t even need a deposit, and you won’t be responsible for insurance or tracking fees. Your monthly subscription fee includes registration, insurance, roadside assistance, and maintenance.