Top 20 Car Rental Companies

The car rental industry in 2025 is a dynamic, tech-driven sector, with a global market size exceeding $100 billion. Fueled by digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, and evolving consumer preferences, these top 20 companies lead the charge. From legacy giants to innovative disruptors, each profile below offers a deep dive into their origins, operations, and unique offerings, crafted to empower readers with actionable insights.

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

• Founders: Jack C. Taylor
• Founded Year: 1957
• Headquarters: Clayton, Missouri, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, truck rentals, van rentals, car sharing, fleet management, used car sales
• Company Description: Founded by Jack C. Taylor, Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the flagship brand of Enterprise Holdings, the largest car rental company in the U.S. with a fleet of over 1.1 million vehicles. Initially focused on “home city” rentals, it expanded into airports after acquiring Alamo and National in 2007. Known for exceptional customer service, Enterprise operates over 9,000 locations globally, emphasizing sustainability and community-driven mobility solutions. Its family-owned ethos and innovative services like Enterprise CarShare cement its market dominance.
• Key Features:
  • Extensive neighborhood and airport network with over 9,000 locations.
  • Enterprise Plus loyalty program with point-based rewards.
  • Sustainable fleet with electric and hybrid vehicles.
  • Enterprise CarShare for hourly rentals in urban areas.
  • Corporate rental programs with flexible terms.
  • Used car sales through Enterprise Car Sales.
  • Commercial truck rentals for businesses.

2. Hertz

• Founders: Walter L. Jacobs
• Founded Year: 1918
• Headquarters: Estero, Florida, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, van rentals, luxury vehicle rentals, electric vehicle rentals
• Company Description: Hertz, founded by Walter L. Jacobs, is a global icon with a fleet of 430,000 vehicles across 3,800 U.S. locations. Despite a 2020 bankruptcy, Hertz rebounded, earning accolades like the 2024 J.D. Power North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study award. Its brands, including Dollar and Thrifty, cater to diverse markets. Hertz leads in luxury and electric vehicle rentals, with a focus on digital-first experiences like touchless pickups and mobile app bookings.
• Key Features:
  • Gold Plus Rewards program with free rental days.
  • Extensive electric vehicle fleet with Tesla models.
  • Hertz Ultimate Choice for vehicle selection at pickup.
  • Transparent pricing with taxes included online.
  • Discounts for AAA members and seniors.
  • One-way rental options with competitive fees.
  • Luxury rentals through Hertz Dream Collection.

3. Avis

• Founders: Warren Avis
• Founded Year: 1946
• Headquarters: Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, van rentals, luxury vehicle rentals, truck rentals
• Company Description: Avis, established by Warren Avis, is a global leader with 1,396 U.S. locations as of 2025. Renowned for servicing airport travelers, Avis offers a 16% cheaper rate than industry averages, with daily rentals at $65. Part of Avis Budget Group, it emphasizes customer loyalty through its Preferred program and partnerships with Amazon and AARP. Avis’s commitment to tech-driven rentals and a diverse fleet ensures it remains a top choice for business and leisure travelers.
• Key Features:
  • Avis Preferred loyalty program with priority service.
  • Up to 35% discounts for prepaid bookings.
  • Amazon partnership offering 10% back in gift cards.
  • AARP and veterans’ discounts up to 30%.
  • Wide vehicle selection from economy to luxury.
  • Mobile app for seamless booking and returns.

4. Budget Rent a Car

• Founders: Morris Mirkin, Jeremy M. Smith, Julius Lederer
• Founded Year: 1958
• Headquarters: Lisle, Illinois, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, truck rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: Budget Rent a Car, founded by Morris Mirkin and others, targets value-conscious travelers with 1,311 U.S. locations. Part of Avis Budget Group, it operates in 150 countries, offering affordable rates starting at $80/day. Budget’s growth from a 10-car fleet to 232,500 vehicles reflects its focus on leisure and small business markets. Its award-winning Fastbreak program and green vehicle options highlight its adaptability in a competitive landscape.
• Key Features:
  • Fastbreak program for expedited rentals.
  • World’s Leading Car Rental Rewards Programme 2024.
  • Budget-friendly rates with 20% prepay discounts.
  • Truck rentals for moving and logistics.
  • Green vehicle options for eco-conscious renters.
  • Flexible cancellation policies ($50 fee).

5. Sixt

• Founders: Martin Sixt
• Founded Year: 1912
• Headquarters: Pullach, Germany
• Product Categories: Car rentals, luxury vehicle rentals, van rentals, subscriptions
• Company Description: Sixt, founded by Martin Sixt, is a German powerhouse with over 4,000 locations in 105 countries. Entering the U.S. in 2011, it now operates 50+ offices, offering premium vehicles averaging three months old. Sixt’s family-owned legacy drives its focus on innovation, with subscription services and status-matching loyalty programs. Its competitive pricing and luxury fleet make it a favorite for travelers seeking quality and value.
• Key Features:
  • Sixt Gold, Platinum, and Diamond loyalty tiers.
  • Status-matching with other loyalty programs.
  • Premium fleet with BMW and Mercedes models.
  • Subscription services for long-term rentals.
  • Up to 20% discounts for elite members.
  • Mobile app with digital key access.
  • Free additional drivers for loyalty members.

6. Alamo Rent a Car

• Founders: Unknown (Enterprise Holdings subsidiary)
• Founded Year: 1974
• Headquarters: Clayton, Missouri, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: Alamo Rent a Car, a subsidiary of Enterprise Holdings, was founded in 1974 and focuses on leisure travelers, particularly at airports. With 307 U.S. locations, Alamo is known for its Emerald Club, offering counter-bypass services. Its customer-centric approach earned a 93/100 satisfaction score from Consumer Reports in 2024. Alamo’s global presence spans North America, Europe, and beyond, providing reliable, affordable rentals for families and vacationers.
• Key Features:
  • Emerald Club with Emerald Aisle vehicle choice.
  • High customer satisfaction (93/100 Consumer Reports).
  • Family-friendly vehicles with child seat options.
  • Competitive rates for one-way rentals.
  • Online check-in for faster pickups.
  • Corporate programs for small businesses.

7. National Car Rental

• Founders: Joe Saunders (part of founding network)
• Founded Year: 1947
• Headquarters: Clayton, Missouri, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, luxury vehicle rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: National Car Rental, part of Enterprise Holdings, emerged from a 1947 network of independent agencies. With 307 U.S. locations, it caters to business travelers through its Emerald Club, allowing members to select any midsize car from the Emerald Aisle. National’s focus on corporate rentals and newer vehicles (1–3 years old) ensures high satisfaction, with strong ratings for service and vehicle quality in 2024 industry reports.
• Key Features:
  • Emerald Club with counter-bypass and vehicle choice.
  • Corporate rental programs with contracted rates.
  • Newer vehicle fleet (1–3 years old).
  • Points-based loyalty program with no expiration.
  • Priority service for business travelers.
  • Flexible booking for last-minute rentals.

8. Dollar Car Rental

• Founders: Unknown (Hertz subsidiary)
• Founded Year: 1965
• Headquarters: Estero, Florida, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: Dollar Car Rental, a Hertz subsidiary, focuses on value-driven rentals with 400+ U.S. locations. Known for affordability, Dollar offers $80/day rates and only $364 for one-way rentals, beating industry averages. Its Express Rewards program provides generous benefits like counter-skipping and free additional drivers. Despite lower 2024 ratings (39/100 by Consumer Reports), Dollar appeals to budget travelers, particularly younger renters aged 20+.
• Key Features:
  • Express Rewards with 1 point per dollar spent.
  • Affordable one-way rentals ($364 average).
  • Accepts renters aged 20+ with fees.
  • Prepay discounts up to 20%.
  • Debit card reservations with conditions.
  • Promotional offers for AAA and young renters.

9. Thrifty Car Rental

• Founders: Unknown (Hertz subsidiary)
• Founded Year: 1958
• Headquarters: Estero, Florida, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: Thrifty Car Rental, part of Hertz Corporation, serves budget-conscious travelers across 400+ U.S. locations. Founded in 1958, Thrifty emphasizes value, though it lags in prepaid discount availability compared to peers. Its Blue Chip Rewards program offers perks like faster pickups. Thrifty’s focus on neighborhood and airport rentals makes it accessible, but it faces challenges in customer satisfaction, as noted in 2024 industry reviews.
• Key Features:
  • Blue Chip Rewards for faster service.
  • Competitive daily rates ($78 average).
  • Neighborhood and airport locations.
  • Accepts younger drivers (20+) with fees.
  • Mobile app for booking management.
  • Limited but growing electric vehicle options.

10. ACE Rent A Car

• Founders: Robert Sorensen, Ken Osterand
• Founded Year: 1966
• Headquarters: Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals
• Company Description: ACE Rent A Car, founded by Robert Sorensen and Ken Osterand, is a privately held company with 60 U.S. locations and a 9,000-vehicle fleet. Starting as a car wash in 1957, it transitioned to rentals in 1966 under Airways Rent A Car. ACE won the 2024 Business Diversity & Customer Excellence Award, reflecting its commitment to service and inclusivity. Its focus on secondary airports offers budget-friendly options for savvy travelers.
• Key Features:
  • 2024 Business Diversity & Customer Excellence Award.
  • Budget-friendly rates at secondary airports.
  • Fleet of 9,000 vehicles across 60 locations.
  • Flexible booking with no prepay penalties.
  • Customer loyalty discounts for repeat renters.
  • Streamlined online reservation system.

11. Fox Rent A Car

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1989
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals
• Company Description: Fox Rent A Car, based in Los Angeles, operates 21 U.S. locations with an 18,200-vehicle fleet. Founded in 1989, it targets budget travelers with rates as low as $28/day in select markets. Acquired by Europcar, Fox emphasizes affordability and loyalty through its Fox Rewards program, offering 4 points per dollar spent. Its 2022 revenue of $249 million underscores its growth, driven by strategic airport locations and digital booking platforms.
• Key Features:
  • Fox Rewards with 4 points per dollar.
  • Low daily rates ($28–$38 in select cities).
  • Flexible redemption for FoxBucks or gift cards.
  • Prepay options with up to 20% savings.
  • Airport-focused locations for convenience.
  • College student discounts (20% off).

12. Europcar

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1949
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Product Categories: Car rentals, luxury vehicle rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: Europcar, founded in 1949, is a Paris-based leader with over 20,000 vehicles across 2,825 locations in 143 countries. A major player in Europe, it expanded into North America and Asia-Pacific, offering a diverse fleet from economy to luxury cars. Europcar’s focus on sustainability includes electric and hybrid options, while its Privilege loyalty program enhances customer retention. Its global reach and premium services make it a top choice for international travelers.
• Key Features:
  • Privilege loyalty program with tiered benefits.
  • Extensive global network (2,825 locations).
  • Electric and hybrid vehicle options.
  • Luxury car rentals for premium travelers.
  • One-way international rentals.
  • Mobile app with real-time booking updates.
  • Corporate solutions for business travel.

13. Turo

• Founders: Shelby Clark
• Founded Year: 2009
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, USA
• Product Categories: Peer-to-peer car rentals
• Company Description: Turo, founded by Shelby Clark, revolutionized car rentals with its peer-to-peer platform, connecting car owners with renters. Operating in 5,000+ cities, Turo offers over 10 million bookable vehicles, from economy to exotic cars. Its digital-first model eliminates traditional rental counters, providing flexibility and variety. Turo’s rapid growth reflects shifting consumer preferences toward sharing economies, making it a disruptor in the $54.2 billion U.S. rental market.
• Key Features:
  • Peer-to-peer rentals with diverse vehicle options.
  • No physical rental counters; all-digital bookings.
  • Available in 5,000+ cities globally.
  • Exotic and luxury car rentals.
  • Flexible delivery and pickup options.
  • Insurance coverage included in bookings.
  • Host rewards for car owners.

14. Zipcar

• Founders: Antje Danielson, Robin Chase
• Founded Year: 2000
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
• Product Categories: Car sharing
• Company Description: Zipcar, founded by Antje Danielson and Robin Chase, pioneered car sharing, offering hourly rentals in urban areas. With a fleet accessible via mobile app, Zipcar serves students, professionals, and eco-conscious renters in 500+ cities. Acquired by Avis Budget Group, it integrates with traditional rentals while maintaining its car-sharing identity. Zipcar’s focus on sustainability and convenience aligns with modern mobility trends, reducing car ownership in dense urban centers.
• Key Features:
  • Hourly rentals starting at $7/hour.
  • Mobile app for instant vehicle access.
  • Gas and insurance included in rentals.
  • University partnerships for student rentals.
  • Eco-friendly fleet with hybrids and EVs.
  • One-way rentals in select markets.

15. Payless Car Rental

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1971
• Headquarters: St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals
• Company Description: Payless Car Rental, founded in 1971, operates as a budget-focused brand under Avis Budget Group. With a presence in 120+ locations, primarily at airports, Payless offers affordable rates for leisure travelers. Its smaller fleet emphasizes economy and midsize vehicles, appealing to cost-conscious renters. Payless’s streamlined operations and loyalty perks through the Perks Club ensure it remains competitive despite a smaller market share compared to industry giants.
• Key Features:
  • Perks Club with discounts and upgrades.
  • Affordable rates for budget travelers.
  • Airport-centric locations for convenience.
  • Economy and midsize vehicle focus.
  • Online booking with prepay savings.
  • Flexible cancellation policies.

16. Advantage Rent A Car

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1963
• Headquarters: Orlando, Florida, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals
• Company Description: Advantage Rent A Car, founded in 1963, is a budget-friendly rental company with a focus on secondary U.S. airports. Rebranded after multiple ownership changes, it operates a modest fleet across 40+ locations. Advantage emphasizes affordability and customer service, offering competitive rates and loyalty rewards. Its resilience in a volatile industry reflects its ability to cater to price-sensitive travelers seeking reliable vehicles without frills.
• Key Features:
  • Competitive rates at secondary airports.
  • Advantage Awards loyalty program.
  • Economy-focused fleet for affordability.
  • Prepay discounts up to 15%.
  • Streamlined digital booking platform.
  • Flexible one-way rental options.

17. U-Save Car & Truck Rental

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1979
• Headquarters: Jackson, Mississippi, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, truck rentals, van rentals
• Company Description: U-Save Car & Truck Rental, founded in 1979, is a franchise-based company with 200+ U.S. locations. Catering to local and regional markets, U-Save offers personalized service and a diverse fleet, including trucks and vans for moving. Its community-focused model contrasts with corporate giants, appealing to customers seeking flexibility and local expertise. U-Save’s franchise network ensures consistent growth in underserved markets.
• Key Features:
  • Franchise model with local expertise.
  • Diverse fleet with trucks and vans.
  • Competitive rates for local rentals.
  • Personalized customer service.
  • Flexible booking for small businesses.
  • One-way rentals in select regions.

18. Rent-A-Wreck

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 1968
• Headquarters: Laurel, Maryland, USA
• Product Categories: Car rentals, used car rentals
• Company Description: Rent-A-Wreck, founded in 1968, offers a unique value proposition by renting used vehicles at lower rates. With 150+ U.S. locations, it targets budget-conscious renters, particularly for local needs like replacement vehicles. Despite its name, Rent-A-Wreck provides reliable cars, often 1–3 years old, and has carved a niche in cost-sensitive markets. Its quirky branding and franchise model drive its enduring appeal.
• Key Features:
  • Used vehicle rentals at low rates.
  • Local focus for replacement cars.
  • Franchise network with 150+ locations.
  • No-frills, budget-friendly service.
  • Flexible rental terms for locals.
  • Accepts younger drivers (18+) in some states.

19. Green Motion

• Founders: Richard Lowden
• Founded Year: 2007
• Headquarters: Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
• Product Categories: Car rentals, electric vehicle rentals
• Company Description: Green Motion, founded by Richard Lowden, is a UK-based eco-friendly rental company with a growing U.S. presence. Launched in 2007, it prioritizes sustainability with a fleet heavy on electric and hybrid vehicles. Operating in 40+ countries, Green Motion appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. Its transparent pricing and green certifications set it apart in a market increasingly focused on reducing carbon footprints.
• Key Features:
  • Electric and hybrid vehicle focus.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Green certifications for sustainability.
  • Loyalty program with eco-rewards.
  • Airport and city locations globally.
  • Carbon offset options for renters.

20. Native Campervans

• Founders: Unknown
• Founded Year: 2016
• Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, USA
• Product Categories: Campervan rentals
• Company Description: Native Campervans, founded in 2016, specializes in campervan rentals for outdoor enthusiasts. Based in Denver, it operates in five U.S. hubs, including Las Vegas and Los Angeles, offering fully equipped vans for national park adventures. Its small, curated fleet emphasizes comfort and ease, appealing to millennials and Gen Z travelers seeking unique experiences. Native’s focus on accessibility and adventure drives its niche success.
• Key Features:
  • Fully equipped campervans with kitchens.
  • Strategic hubs near national parks.
  • Millennial-friendly booking platform.
  • All-inclusive pricing with no extras.
  • Pet-friendly rental options.
  • 24/7 roadside assistance.

Sources:

• Zippia: Largest Car Rental Companies Research
• Sixt: Top 10 Car Rental Companies 2025
• Forbes: Best Car Rental Companies 2024
• Consumer Reports: Car Rental Ratings 2024
• Enterprise Wikipedia
• ScrapeHero: Largest Car Rentals 2025
• UniWorld News: Top Car Rental Companies
• Car Rental Express: History of Car Rental

This report provides a snapshot of the car rental industry’s leaders, blending legacy expertise with modern innovation. For travelers, businesses, or investors, these insights reveal the diverse options shaping mobility in 2025.

Feedback/Collaboration Enquiries

Is your company leading the way in innovation, service, or strategy? We’d love to hear about it and explore how we can collaborate on content.

• 📧 contact@thecconnects.com
• 📱 WhatsApp: http://wa.me/919133110730
• 📞 Call: 9133110730