I was a Hertz frequent renter for many years. This was mainly due to brand loyalty to the Hertz name. What always bothered me though about Hertz (and other rental car companies, as well), was the lack of choice given at the rental counter. It was irksome to have to cajole a decent car out of the rental agent. Once I became aware of the Emerald Aisle system at National, I switched to them and never looked back. I love being able to select my own car.

Even if Hertz moves to the "choose your own" model, as long as their high credit card hold fee remains, I feel that National will still be the company of choice, at least for me. As a business heavy traveler, the hold fees, from multiple Hertz locations often pushed my travel card past its limit. That never happens with National, as they authorize for actual costs only.