How to Choose the Right Size Rental Car for Your Trip

A smaller car is usually easier to park and more fuel-efficient, which matters more in dense city centers and on narrow European or historic-district streets than most travelers expect. A larger group or more luggage than a compact car can hold makes an upgrade worth the extra cost even if it's not the cheapest option available.

Consider your specific route too — a car well-suited to a city stay might feel underpowered or cramped on a longer highway or mountain drive.