Originally Posted by
Spaidak2
Go easy on me guys, this i my first post, long time lurker but first post.
Situation: already booked with Costco's AWD: A108335 and am happy with the price I got for a Standard Elite SUV for 14 days (June1st to 15th) . I'm renting from the chicago suburbs and the example vehicle is a Nissan Pathfinder but keep hitting roadblocks when trying to find out what the other possibilities for this class of vehicle would be. I konw there are classification codes for vehicles but this is my first time renting with AVIS, I used to use enterprise but they're basically charging more than triple for similar class vehicles.
My question is, what vehicles are the fleet for a Standard Elite SUV? Many of the SUV's have gone through a major revision for 2022. Does Avis geenrally have newer years or hold onto vehicles for a few years? I looked at their car sales website and they looked decent meaning whatever they have in their fleet must be newer or better?
Once your'e assigned a vehicle, are you stuck with it or can I switch out if there is a better vehicle or ask for a larger or better SUV. I'm renting for a 6000 mile road trip with 4 people so comfort and amenities are key and wondering if anyone has any idea of whats in Avis' fleet in this class. And whats likely the best vehicle in the class based on what I explained. Im a "preffered member" just had to sign up. Is there anyway to switch out if another branch has a better vehicle or any tricks or tips on upgrades or suggesting a specificic vehicle at avis?
In Avis parlance, standard elite just means a 7-passenger SUV. That said, their 7-passenger SUVs are usually decently equipped. I don't know about Chicago specifically but I'd expect something like a Ford Explorer Limited, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, etc. Usually those have at least a couple options like leather seats.
I second
IAHtraveler on the minivan. Unless you are hoping to do go off road or do anything remotely sporty, it's hard to beat the space, comfort, low load floor, etc. of a minivan like the Chrysler Pacifica when you're going to be driving that much with a bunch of people. Otherwise, I also agree that the Explorer Limited is a great ride. As a unibody SUV it's a good mix of comfort and utility, and it's RWD-based, which I prefer.