I've been with every car company in the past 20 years, I've never had better service than Avis. Probably though is cause I got free status from Avis.

All the airport counter agents are really helpful. The worst car I would be to get today on a double upgrade from full size is a CTS. Sometimes I get BMW's though I only paid $29 per day.

Avis phone support is really helpful, calling them always gives you the better rate. What they have in there system is different from the online. They also help you play with discounts such as costco, etc.

I never had a charge issue with Avis. I messed up on a travel date, called in drop one date of the travel and no extra charges, same rates.

Obviously the OP is complaining because the rate went up. Rates always go up and down based on the time. Best examples are the holidays.