Thanks everyone. I still don't see how the statement on the website regarding Presidents Circle can be conflated. It clearly states, if you don't like your one class upgrade, then you can pick a Gold Choice car. To me, that's black and white. I've printed a copy, and will have in my bag, should someone else question me.
To answer other questions:
This particular time, my assigned car was a Ford Fiesta, (although the last time, it was a Ford Escape, and time before that a Chevy Impala). so appears they didn't live up to the "guaranteed one class upgrade" for Pres Circle.
Red Scorp--it CLEARLY states if you don't like your upgrade, you can choose any Gold Choice car. Not sure how that doesn't mean exactly what it says. It says, you can pick if you see something else you prefer, not if you see something you prefer that must be one class higher.
And prior 80+ experiences bares that out, as I've never been questioned.
My rental charges are usually $250/week, so I'd imagine I'm a high value Pres Circle, but who knows.
In any event, thanks everyone. I'll post back if this continues to be an issue.
Thanks
Oh and my company uses Amex travel with their own IT platform. Our company's rate is based off of economy/compact.