Avis Preferred - Upgrade vs. Downgrade
 

Recently, I rented a full size at the TLH downtown location. All they had was a Nissan Ultima which, to me, is a sports car and not a full size car. I was not wanting such a small car.

When I asked about it, all I received was double talk. Comp upgrades are subject to availability - but none were available. However, I could upgrade if I paid for one of those mini vans or Gran Marquis on the lot. So, I ended up downgrading to a midsize Suburu - and a week later, my lower back still hurts from 3 days in it.

I am Preferred, not First with Avis. At Christmas, no full size were on the lot and I got a Gran Marquis for same price. Was I expecting too much for the same to happen this time round?

A Nissan Altima (I think that is what you meant) is in the same class as a Hyundai Sonata which is considered a "full" size car. The last Altima I had was a fairly roomy car.

Being Avis Preferred only lets you bypass the rental desk for a vehicle that already has your contract. You are not entitled to any upgrades.

Correct, the Altima is considered Full Size by the Avis standards. Considering the Sonata, Malibu, etc. are considered "full size", I guess the Altima belongs in that class, too.

The Mercury Grand Marquis is Premium (:rolleyes:), so that would be considered an upgrade, which would cost money, unless they didn't have your size available.

If the Altima was a four door, and you paid less for the Suburu; I'd consider it a draw. The Altima is 350 or so lbs lighter than the Impala; but the interior dimensions are somewhat similar.
Availability is always an issue at "local editions".
One factor I always try to consider is what is the smallest vehicle that will get the job done?
But now you know to try to stay out of the Suburu; your healthy back is worth more than that.:)