Originally Posted by
caliform
I would not consider that an upgrade. They often will weasel word when they do not have an objectively nicer booked car with a category that is ostensibly more expensive but clearly not a nicer car.
Agreed. Rental companies have wildly varying definitions of vehicle segments (most of which are completely inconsistent with market realities), but a compact non-premium crossover is not an upgrade from a premium midsize sedan. I wouldn't even consider it an upgrade from a Passat or a similar non-premium sedan/wagon. An upgrade from a 3-series would have been a 5-series or an X5. A Tiguan from a 3-series is a downgrade. A Tonale is a lateral move, at best (premium brand, but pretty small compared to the 3-er).