I recently rented two mid-size SUVs from budget at SFO. First time long wait for any car. No Escape, they asked do you want a Taurus? I said no and about 10 minutes later the gave me a new Explorer instead (free upgrade ^ ). Second rental was 2 weeks ago. Rental counter was quiet and again no Escapes No upgrade this time, got the Vibe. It actually wasn't that bad. Good thing was drove all weekend and only used $25 worth of gas. It was easy to park. I noticed at the counter the fleet chart said something like; not all mid-size SUV's are 4 wheel drive. This summer had a mid SUV rental in Spokane and got Buick Rendezvous. I wasn't sure if this was an upgrade or not. It was brand new.

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