In today’s fast-paced world, car rental services have evolved dramatically. Traditional rental companies like Hertz are no longer the only option. Peer-to-peer car rental platforms such as Turo have gained significant popularity, offering a different approach to car renting. If you’re trying to decide between Turo and Hertz, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the differences, advantages, and potential drawbacks of each, so you can make an informed choice.

Understanding Turo and Hertz

What is Turo?

Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace. Often dubbed the “Airbnb of car rentals,” Turo allows private car owners to rent out their vehicles to others. This model offers a diverse range of vehicles, from budget cars to luxury models, catering to a variety of needs and preferences. Turo operates in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries, making it a global platform for car sharing.

What is Hertz?

Hertz is one of the world’s largest and most established car rental companies. Founded in 1918, Hertz has a long history of providing rental services through its extensive network of locations worldwide. The company offers a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs and luxury cars, with a focus on customer service and reliability.

Comparing Turo and Hertz

Pricing Comparison

Turo Pricing:

• Flexible Pricing: Turo’s pricing is set by individual car owners, which can lead to a wide range of prices. This flexibility allows for potentially lower rates compared to traditional rental companies, especially for longer-term rentals.
• Additional Fees: Turo charges additional fees, such as a trip fee and a young driver fee for renters under 25. However, these fees are often lower than those charged by traditional rental car companies.
• Turo Prices: Turo prices can vary greatly depending on the car’s owner and the type of vehicle being rented.

Hertz Pricing:

• Standardized Pricing: Hertz has standardized pricing across its locations, with seasonal variations. Prices are typically higher than Turo but include comprehensive insurance and roadside assistance.
• Discounts and Loyalty Programs: Hertz offers various discounts through memberships, corporate programs, and loyalty programs like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, which can help reduce overall costs.
• Final Price: The final price at Hertz includes insurance options and other fees, often resulting in a higher rental price than Turo.

Vehicle Selection Comparison

Turo Vehicle Selection:

• Diverse Range: Turo offers a wide array of vehicles, from classic cars and electric vehicles to high-end sports cars. The selection depends on the availability in the renter’s area.
• Unique Options: Renters can find unique and specialized vehicles on Turo that are often not available through traditional rental companies.
• Turo Car: The exact car you choose on Turo is the car you get, adding to the personalized rental experience.

Hertz Vehicle Selection:

• Standard Fleet: Hertz offers a broad but standardized selection of vehicles, including economy cars, compact cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. The fleet is generally newer and well-maintained.
• Specialty Vehicles: Hertz also offers specialty vehicles through its Dream Collection and Green Collection, providing access to luxury and eco-friendly options.
• Nicer Car: Hertz offers a more predictable experience with newer and nicer cars that are regularly serviced.

Rental Process Comparison

Turo Rental Process:

• Online Platform: The entire rental process is managed through Turo’s online platform or mobile app. Renters can browse available vehicles, communicate with owners, and book directly through the platform.
• Flexibility: Turo provides flexibility in pick-up and drop-off locations, often allowing renters to choose convenient locations or even have the car delivered to them.
• Turo App: The Turo app makes it easy to manage rentals, communicate with the car’s owner, and handle payments.
• Turo Experience: The Turo experience is personalized and can vary greatly depending on the vehicle owner.

Hertz Rental Process:

• Traditional Process: Hertz operates through both online bookings and physical rental locations. Renters can reserve vehicles online or in person at one of the many Hertz locations.
• Airport Convenience: Hertz has a significant presence at airports, making it a convenient option for travelers. Their standardized process ensures a smooth rental experience.
• Hertz Counter: Renting from Hertz typically involves picking up the car at the Hertz counter, especially at airport locations.

Insurance and Protection Comparison

Turo Insurance and Protection:

• Multiple Options: Turo offers different levels of insurance coverage, including basic, standard, and premium protection plans. Renters can choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.
• Owner Insurance: Car owners also have insurance options to protect their vehicles while they are being rented out.
• Liberty Mutual: Turo’s insurance options are provided by Liberty Mutual, ensuring a reputable source of coverage.
• Decline Protection: Renters can decline protection if they have their own insurance that covers rental cars.

Hertz Insurance and Protection:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Hertz includes insurance in its rental price, offering various coverage options like Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS), and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI).
• Peace of Mind: The comprehensive coverage provided by Hertz can offer more peace of mind, especially for international travelers who may need extensive insurance.
• Credit Card Insurance: Hertz rentals can be covered by credit card insurance, depending on the cardholder’s benefits.
• Credit Card Coverage: Many credit cards offer rental car insurance, which can be used with Hertz rentals.

Customer Service Comparison

Turo Customer Service:

• Peer-to-Peer Interaction: Customer service quality can vary since interactions are primarily with individual car owners. However, Turo provides support through its platform for dispute resolution and assistance.
• Community-Based: The peer-to-peer nature of Turo can result in a more personalized and flexible rental experience.
• Turo Host: The experience largely depends on the Turo host, and host reviews can help determine the quality of service.

Hertz Customer Service:

• Professional Service: Hertz is known for its professional customer service, with 24/7 support and a well-established system for handling issues and inquiries.
• Consistent Quality: The consistency in customer service quality across Hertz locations ensures a reliable experience for renters.

Additional Considerations

Rental Duration Comparison

• Turo: Turo rentals can be for a few hours or several months, offering flexible rental periods that cater to different needs.
• Hertz: Hertz also offers a range of rental durations, but their pricing structure may be more advantageous for longer-term rentals.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Comparison

• Turo: Turo offers flexibility in pick-up and drop-off locations, often allowing renters to choose a place convenient to them or even have the car delivered.
• Hertz: Hertz’s extensive network of locations, especially at airports, provides convenient pick-up and drop-off options. However, this can be less flexible compared to Turo’s personalized arrangements.

Airport Rentals Comparison

• Turo: Turo can be less convenient for last-minute airport rentals unless arranged in advance.
• Hertz: Hertz has a strong presence at airports, making it a convenient option for travelers needing immediate rentals upon arrival.

Rental Price Comparison

• Turo: The rental price on Turo can vary greatly depending on the car owner, vehicle type, and rental duration.
• Hertz: Hertz’s rental price is more standardized, but discounts and loyalty programs can help reduce costs.

One-Way Rentals Comparison

• Turo: Turo may offer one-way rentals depending on the car owner’s preferences and availability.
• Hertz: Hertz offers one-way rentals, which can be a big deal for travelers needing to drop off the car at a different location.

Pros and Cons

Turo

Pros:

• Wide Range of Vehicles: Access to unique and diverse vehicles.
• Flexible Pricing: Potentially lower prices and flexible rental terms.
• Convenient Pick-Up/Drop-Off: Options for convenient and flexible pick-up and drop-off locations.
• Extra Money: Car owners can make extra cash by renting out their own cars.

Cons:

• Variable Service Quality: Customer service and vehicle quality can vary.
• Additional Fees: Extra fees for insurance and young drivers can add up.
• Limited Availability: Not all areas have a wide selection of vehicles.
• Insurance Coverage: Insurance options vary and may require additional coverage for comprehensive protection.

Hertz

Pros:

• Reliable Service: Consistent and professional customer service.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Extensive insurance and protection options.
• Global Presence: Convenient locations, especially at airports.
• Nicer Car: Consistent quality with newer, well-maintained vehicles.

Cons:

• Higher Prices: Standardized pricing can be higher than peer-to-peer options.
• Less Flexibility: Less flexibility in rental terms and pick-up/drop-off locations.
• Limited Unique Vehicles: Standardized fleet with fewer unique or specialty options.

Which Should You Choose?

Consider Your Needs

Budget-Conscious Travelers:

• If you’re looking for a more affordable option and are open to different vehicle types, Turo might be the better choice. Its flexible pricing and wide range of vehicles can help you find a deal that fits your budget.

Travelers Seeking Convenience:

• If convenience and reliability are your top priorities, especially if you’re flying into an airport, Hertz’s established presence and professional service might make it the better option. The consistency in service and extensive insurance coverage can provide peace of mind.

Unique Vehicle Enthusiasts:

• If you’re interested in driving a unique or specialty vehicle, Turo offers a diverse selection that traditional rental companies can’t match. Whether you want to rent a classic car for a special occasion or test drive an electric vehicle, Turo has you covered.

Business Travelers:

• For business travelers who need a reliable and professional rental service, Hertz’s extensive network and corporate programs can be highly beneficial. The company’s loyalty programs and frequent renter benefits can also add value for regular travelers.

Making Your Choice: Turo vs. Hertz

Choosing between Turo and Hertz ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Turo offers flexibility, a wide range of vehicle options, and potentially lower prices, making it an attractive choice for many renters. On the other hand, Hertz provides reliability, comprehensive insurance coverage, and professional service, making it a strong contender for those seeking a traditional car rental experience.

By considering factors such as budget, convenience, vehicle preferences, and travel needs, you can make an informed decision that ensures a smooth and enjoyable car rental experience. Whether you choose the peer-to-peer model of Turo or the established reliability of Hertz, both services have their unique advantages, offering something for every type of traveler.

When comparing Turo vs. Hertz, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each rental car company. Turo’s flexibility and unique offerings cater to those looking for something different, while Hertz’s established infrastructure and consistent service appeal to those seeking reliability and convenience. Both traditional car rental companies like Hertz and innovative platforms like Turo have their place in the market, each serving the diverse needs of today’s travelers.