Intermediate Car Rental
The Balance of Comfort and Economy
Intermediate cars hit that balance point between comfort and economy. Slide into the driver’s seat and you notice the supportive cushions, the intuitive layout of controls, and the quietness of the cabin, hallmarks of a comfortable ride. Now glance at the fuel gauge after a day of driving and you’ll notice you’ve barely used much gas, that’s the economy side making itself known. This balance is what sets midsize cars apart. You don’t have to sacrifice a pleasant driving experience to save money, nor do you have to pay premium costs to avoid feeling cramped. For many renters, this is precisely why they choose an intermediate car again and again. It just makes sense: plenty of comfort for you and your passengers, but also sensible in terms of fuel and rental rates. It’s a win-win that leaves you free to focus on your journey, not on your budget or backache.
Frequently Asked Questions
One big perk of intermediate/midsize cars is their solid fuel efficiency. These cars often have modern 4-cylinder engines that deliver a good balance of power and MPG. You can generally expect somewhere in the ballpark of 28-34 MPG on the highway from a midsize sedan, and a bit lower in city driving, say 22-28 MPG, depending on the model. For example, a Hyundai Elantra or Honda Civic (both considered midsize by many rental standards) can easily hit around 30 MPG combined. This means an intermediate car rental lets you go further on a tank of gas, saving you money if you plan to do a lot of driving.
The main difference comes down to size and space. A standard car is one class above an intermediate (midsize) car. Standard cars are usually larger sedans with a bit more legroom and trunk capacity. For instance, a Nissan Altima might be intermediate, while a Toyota Camry might be considered standard. Both typically seat 5, but the standard might fit an extra piece of luggage and often has a slightly more powerful engine. If you have a very tall passenger or extra bags, you might opt for a standard. But if you’re looking to save a little on fuel and cost, an intermediate car will serve you well while still providing comfort.