I found an old thread from 2010 on this, but nothing recent. What are my chances of being upgraded to Premium class (from Full Size) as an Avis First member?

I have a Full Size car reserved with a discount coupon for $59 (all in) but I can reserve a Premium with a different coupon for $150 and be assured of getting a Premium. If I have a good chance of an upgrade, then I'd rather stick with the cheaper rental.

Also, what cars have others been getting in the Premium category?

Chances vary widely based upon location, time of rental (Tuesday afternoon/Wednesday/Thursday AM business destinations will typically be sold out or nearly sold out, so upgrades will be hard to come by), the agent, etc. Very hard to say without a lot more info from you.


Have a look at the sticky thread at the top of this forum with info on each car class.

We'll be arriving at LAX, late evening on a Saturday night in June.

I think since it's not a weekday, my chances should be better, right?

Potentially better, but not always. It really depends on the demand. When I've rented at LAX, it's been hit or miss. 3 months ago at LAX, I reserved a large SUV (Ford Expedition/GMC Yukon) and although I had a confirmed reservation, the biggest they could give me on arrival was a Ford Escape. Avis pulled through and rented me 2 Escapes at a significant discount from my corporate rate, which actually ended up being less than my original reservation.

Last Sunday I rented a intermediate car from LAX (one-way rental) and I was upgraded to a 2013 Infiniti G37. Believe it or not, I wasn't that impressed with the vehicle, especially with the fuel economy and "comfort" of the suspension on the freeway. I don't think much has changed since I last drove this car in 2007/2008.

Twice out of the last three rental I have booked full size and received an SUV

Similar experience to miles85 here. I'm Avis First and always rent a Full Size. I quite often receive a Ford Edge at a variety of different locations. No complaints as they are always high-option/trim models.