Can I pick any car within class with Dollar?

[Donna M]

I just signed up for Dollar Express and have a prepaid car. I want to try out a Prius. Is Dollar the company that lets you choose your car?

 

[jlewisinsyr]

No, Dollar pre-assigns vehicles, additionally, you're going to find that Prius (and Hybrids in general) rentals are pretty much non-existant in fleets outside of special collections, like Hertz Green Collection.

 

[bfost87]

National lets you pick your vehicle if you sign up for their Emerald Club (its free). As was said above as well, Prius and other Hybrids are next to impossible to come upon. I worked in Car Rentals for two years and had spent time at 8 different locations across 6 cities and had only ever seen one for rental.

I would be more inclined to stay away from some of the companies like Dollar, Thrifty and Fox, as they may be a dollar or two cheaper sometimes, but can cause you tons of hassle at the time of rental or after. I tend to stick with one of the 'big boys' (Enterprise, National, Alamo, Hertz, Budget, Avis)

 

[Chumpieboy]

No, Dollar pre-assigns vehicles, additionally, you're going to find that Prius (and Hybrids in general) rentals are pretty much non-existant in fleets outside of special collections, like Hertz Green Collection.

I've used Dollar my last 3 or 4 trips and was able to choose from any car in the class I booked. One time we had our hearts set on a Charger but none was available in the row until an employee drove up on a recently returned one just as we were backing out of the space. We moved our bags and snagged that car.

For the OP, I don't ever remember seeing a Prius or similar car available at Dollar MCO either within a class or as a class.

 

[Lewisc]

You can always ask for a different vehicle if you don't like the car you're assigned.

Really no reason for rental fleets buying a lot of hybrid cars, and renting them at regular rates. The customer is the one who pays for gas.

Companies that let you chose your own car generally have a section for each car type. You select from the section that corresponds with the car type you reserved.

National has the Emerald Aisle. Occasionally you'll get a car in a higher category but people who are hoping for a mini-van are likely to be disappointed.