National Car Rental

Short answer: best U.S. car rental brands to check first

1. Enterprise — best all-around choice for most people
2. National — best for frequent/business travelers
3. Alamo — best for leisure trips and families
4. Hertz — strong mainstream alternative with big airport presence
5. Avis — good corporate/airport option; satisfaction scores improved recently
6. Budget — best among the major “cheap but still mainstream” brands
7. Sixt — good in major airports/cities if you want newer or more premium cars
8. Turo — worth checking only if you want a specific vehicle or local delivery, but read insurance/fee details carefully

The U.S. market is dominated by three big ownership groups: Enterprise Mobility — Enterprise, National, Alamo; Hertz — Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty; and Avis Budget Group — Avis, Budget, Payless, Zipcar. One 2026 industry summary estimates those three groups account for about 94% of U.S. rental-car market share, so these are the brands people actually use most. (enterprisemobility.com)

My practical ranking

Best “products” or booking options people actually use

• National Emerald Club — my top loyalty program pick if you rent often and like skipping the counter. J.D. Power found customers who bypass the counter save time and report higher satisfaction. (jdpower.com)
• Enterprise Plus / Enterprise direct booking — good default for occasional renters who want fewer surprises.
• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards — worth using if Hertz is cheapest or most convenient at your airport.
• Avis Preferred — useful if your company or credit card gives Avis discounts.
• Costco Travel Rental Cars — excellent if you’re a Costco member; Costco says its rental-car bookings can include member discounts and a waived additional-driver fee at participating locations. (costcotravel.com)
• AutoSlash — useful for tracking price drops after booking a cancellable rental; AutoSlash says it tracks reservations and alerts users when rates drop. (autoslash.com)

What I’d personally do

For a normal U.S. trip, I’d check prices in this order:

1. Costco Travel if you’re a member
2. Enterprise / National / Alamo
3. Hertz and Avis
4. Budget if it’s meaningfully cheaper
5. Sixt if you’re in a major airport/city and want a nicer car
6. Turo only if traditional rentals are expensive or you need a specific vehicle

I’d generally avoid choosing Dollar, Thrifty, Payless, Fox, or very small local agencies unless the savings are large and you’re comfortable with more variability in lines, vehicle condition, deposits, and fees. They can be fine, but they’re not the first brands I’d recommend for a low-hassle rental.

Best Car Rental Companies in the U.S. (2026)

Based on recent industry data — especially the widely-cited J.D. Power North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study — here are the brands Americans actually use and rate highest:

🥇 Top Overall: Enterprise

The most trusted name for a reason. Enterprise ranked the highest in overall customer happiness, according to the October 2025 J.D. Power 2025 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study, and maintained this ranking for the third year in a row. It's an especially good pick for local/neighborhood rentals (not just airports), with the largest branch network in the country.

🥈 Runner-Up: National

Great for frequent business travelers and airport pickups. National came in as the runner up in customer satisfaction. It's Enterprise's sister brand, and National consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys because they understand the value of time, with a robust app for easy management of reservations. Its "skip the counter" Emerald Club Aisle experience is a favorite among road warriors.

🥉 Third Place: Alamo

Also owned by Enterprise Holdings, Alamo is the value-friendly option. Alamo received third place in customer satisfaction, and it excels in streamlining the rental experience, enabling customers to use self-serve kiosks or skip the counter entirely by checking in online. Alamo is also the biggest car rental company for international travelers in North America, with offices in all major U.S. airports.

🏅 Rising Premium Pick: Sixt

If you want a newer, nicer fleet and don't mind paying a bit more, Sixt has been surging in the U.S. SIXT USA has been ranked #3 among 13 car rental companies evaluated in the J.D. Power 2025 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study, achieving an overall customer satisfaction score of 711, surpassing the study average of 691. It was also named the #1 Rental Car Company in America in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

Other Well-Known Brands (Household Names)

• Hertz – Still one of the biggest names in the U.S., known for a modern fleet and business-traveler perks. Hertz has developed a reputation for maintaining a modern fleet, offering weekend deals, and providing corporate rental options that appeal to business travelers. Its loyalty program (Hertz Gold Plus Rewards) lets members earn 1 point per dollar spent and skip the counter for check-in, with e-returns for quicker processing.
• Budget & Dollar/Thrifty – Best if you're prioritizing price over frills; commonly the cheapest major-brand options at most airports.
• Avis – A solid mid-tier choice with wide availability, often bundled with sister brand Budget in comparison searches.
• Fox Rent A Car – A true budget pick, especially strong in the western U.S. and Florida. Fox is particularly popular in the western United States and Florida, and while their fleet may not be brand-new, they offer functional transportation at rock-bottom prices — the best option for students, backpackers, and anyone on a strict budget.

Bottom Line Recommendation

• Best all-around / most trusted: Enterprise
• Best for frequent flyers/business trips: National
• Best value with solid reliability: Alamo
• Best premium/newer cars: Sixt
• Best if you just want cheap: Fox or Budget

For most everyday travelers in the U.S., Enterprise, National, and Alamo (all under Enterprise Holdings) dominate customer satisfaction rankings, while Sixt is the fastest-growing name for those wanting a more upsc

Renting a car in the United States can be the difference between a seamless trip and a logistical nightmare. While three major conglomerates control about 70% of the U.S. rental market—Enterprise Holdings, Avis Budget Group, and Hertz Corporation—the actual experience, pricing, and vehicle quality vary wildly from brand to brand.

Customer satisfaction studies (such as the J.D. Power North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study) and real-world traveler feedback highlight the best car rental companies in the U.S. categorized by what they do best.

1. The Gold Standard (Best Overall Experience)

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

• Best For: Exceptional customer service, reliability, and neighborhood locations.
• Why people actually use it: Enterprise consistently ranks #1 in customer satisfaction. Unlike brands that only target major airports, Enterprise has a massive footprint in local neighborhoods across the U.S. (famous for their "We'll pick you up" service). Their staff is highly empowered to resolve issues on the spot, and their cars are generally clean and well-maintained.

National Car Rental

• Best For: Business travelers and frequent flyers.
• Why people actually use it: National is legendary for its loyalty program, Emerald Club. If you book a "Midsize" car or higher, you bypass the rental counter entirely, walk out to the "Emerald Aisle," and pick any vehicle you want (often including SUVs and premium sedans) with the keys already inside. You just drive to the exit booth, scan, and go. It is the fastest, lowest-friction rental experience in the country.

2. Best for Premium & Luxury Cars (on a budget)

Sixt

• Best For: Driving a high-end European car without paying exotic rental prices.
• Why people actually use it: German-based Sixt has aggressively expanded across major U.S. airports (especially in Florida, California, and the Northeast). They tie for #3 in customer satisfaction because their fleets are packed with newer BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes, Audis, and Volvos. If you want to drive a luxury SUV or convertible down the Pacific Coast Highway without paying astronomical rates, Sixt is usually the cheapest way to do it.

3. Best for Families & Vacationers

Alamo Rent A Car

• Best For: Disney trips, family vacations, and easy-to-use kiosks.
• Why people actually use it: Alamo is owned by the same parent company as Enterprise and National, meaning it shares their high-quality fleet. It is specifically geared toward leisure travelers. Alamo’s self-service kiosks at airports are incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to bypass the main counter quickly. Like National, they often let you walk into the lot and choose your own vehicle within the class you paid for, which is a lifesaver if you are trying to fit specific luggage or strollers.

4. The Best Modern Alternative (Peer-to-Peer)

Turo

• Best For: Getting the exact make and model you want, and avoiding airport lines.
• Why people actually use it: Think of Turo as the "Airbnb of cars." Instead of renting from a corporate fleet, you rent directly from local hosts.
  • The Pros: You get the exact car pictured on the app (e.g., a Tesla Model Y, a rugged Jeep Wrangler, or a fuel-efficient Prius) rather than a generic "Toyota Corolla or similar." Many hosts will park the car in the airport short-term lot for you, meaning you walk straight to the car, grab the keys from a lockbox, and drive away—entirely skipping rental shuttles and counters.
  • The Cons: You have to coordinate with an individual host, and insurance policies/fees can sometimes get complicated.

5. The Legacy Giants (Massive Footprint, Mixed Reviews)

Hertz & Avis

• Best For: People with corporate discounts or massive point-hoarding strategies.
• Why people use them: Hertz and Avis are absolute giants with pick-up locations practically everywhere.
  • Avis is generally preferred by corporate travelers who use "Avis Preferred" to bypass the lines.
  • Hertz has a top-tier loyalty program (Hertz Gold Plus Rewards) that operates similarly to National's. However, both brands have faced criticism in recent years regarding customer service bottlenecks at peak times and spotty vehicle cleaning, meaning they usually rank slightly below Enterprise and National in satisfaction surveys.

💡 Insider Pro-Tips for Renting in the U.S.

• Bypass the Counter at All Costs: The J.D. Power study proved that skipping the counter saves travelers an average of 8 minutes and drastically increases overall satisfaction. Join the loyalty program of whatever rental company you choose before you book. Programs like National Emerald Club, Hertz Gold, and Avis Preferred are free to join and allow you to walk straight past the dreaded 45-minute terminal lines and go directly to the garage.
• Don't Double-Pay on Insurance: When you get to the counter, agents will heavily push their collision damage waiver (CDW). Check your personal auto insurance policy first; it often covers rentals within the U.S. Alternatively, premium U.S. credit cards (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred/Reserve or Capital One Venture X) offer primary rental car insurance if you decline the rental company's coverage and pay with that card.
• Avoid Airport Taxes if You Can: If you need a car for a week but are staying at a hotel for the first few days, consider renting from a "neighborhood" location rather than the airport. Airports levy massive local concession fees and taxes that can add 20% to 40% to your daily rental rate.

If you want the best car rental companies in the United States that people actually use, the most consistently top-rated names are Enterprise, National, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Alamo.

Here’s the most practical shortlist:

A few useful takeaways:

• Enterprise is the safest all-around recommendation if you want the most dependable mainstream option.
• National is especially strong if you care about speed and a smoother pickup experience.
• Hertz is a very common “default” airport brand and is widely used in the U.S.
• Avis and Budget are solid if you want a big-brand rental with lots of locations and frequent discounts.
• Alamo is a good choice for travelers who want a simpler leisure-rental experience.

If you want, I can also give you:

• the best company by airport,
• the cheapest brands that are still reliable, or
• a ranked top 10 for 2026 based on these sources.

Here in the U.S., the “best” rental car company really depends on what you value: price, airport convenience, customer service, or loyalty perks. These are the brands Americans actually use most, broken down by category:

Overall & Customer Service: Enterprise

• Why: Massive network, famously good customer service, and they’ll often pick you up if you need a local rental. They own National and Alamo too, so they dominate the U.S. market.
• Best for: Road trips, replacement rentals, and people who want minimal hassle.

Best for Frequent Travelers / Business: National Car Rental

• Why: The Emerald Club lets you walk straight to the lot and pick any car in your class (and often upgrade for free). Airport locations are strong.
• Best for: Frequent flyers and corporate travelers who want speed and convenience. If your employer has a corporate code, this is the top choice.

Best Rewards Program: Hertz

• Why: Hertz Gold/Ultimate Choice is hugely popular, and they have a good presence at airports and in cities. They also carry cool cars like Teslas, Mustangs, and premium SUVs.
• Best for: People who want to earn points and get free upgrades. Just watch out for added fees—always check the final price.

Best for Business/Corporate: Avis

• Why: Avis is the go-to for business travelers, especially with the Avis Preferred program. They have strong airport locations and a reputation for consistency.
• Best for: Frequent road-warriors who already have loyalty status with airline/hotel partners.

Best Value / Budget-Friendly: Budget Car Rental

• Why: Owned by Avis, so you get a similar fleet at lower prices. They’re not fancy, but they’re everywhere.
• Best for: Saving money, especially if you book through Costco Travel, AAA, or use promo codes.

Best for Airport “Walk-Up” Convenience: Alamo

• Why: Very popular at airports in tourist-heavy states (Florida, California, etc.). Easy kiosk check-in and you pick your own car in the lot.
• Best for: Families and casual vacations where you want to skip the counter.

Best Peer-to-Peer / Alternative: Turo

• Why: Tons of Americans use this instead of traditional rental agencies. You rent someone’s actual car—from a cheap economy car to a luxury SUV or sports car. Often better prices and a more personal experience.
• Best for: Specific car models, longer trips, or if you’re under 25 (some owners have more flexible age rules). Just read the insurance/policy carefully.

My practical recommendation for most people:

• If you want the easiest experience at a major airport: National (if you can get a free Emerald Club membership—it’s often included with certain credit cards).
• If you want the best combination of price and reliability: Book Enterprise or Budget through a discount program (like Costco or your credit card portal).
• If you’re under 25 or want a unique car: Try Turo, but budget for the extra fees.

Pro tip: Always check the final out-the-door price—car rental base rates in the U.S. are cheap, but airport fees, taxes, and “concession recovery fees” can add 30–50%. Also, decline the rental company’s insurance if your personal auto policy or a good credit card (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Amex Platinum) already covers collision damage.

The top car rental companies in the US, based on customer satisfaction surveys (like J.D. Power), reader awards (e.g., Travel + Leisure), booking site ratings, popularity, and widespread use, are primarily from three major groups: Enterprise Mobility (Enterprise, National, Alamo), Hertz Global (Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty), and Avis Budget Group (Avis, Budget).

Enterprise Holdings brands dominate in locations, market share, and satisfaction, making them the most commonly used by everyday Americans for both airport and neighborhood rentals.

Top Recommendations (Ranked by Consistent High Performance)

Here are the standout brands people actually use and rate highly:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Frequently ranks #1 in J.D. Power’s North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study (e.g., 734/1000 in the 2025 study). It has the largest network of locations (thousands across the US, including many neighborhood spots for local needs), strong reliability, competitive pricing in many cases, and excellent customer service. It’s ideal for most travelers, especially those needing flexibility or off-airport pickups. It’s the most popular and widely used overall.

• National Car Rental: Often #1 or #2 in J.D. Power (721 in 2025) and frequently tops reader polls like Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. It excels for business travelers and frequent renters thanks to its Emerald Club loyalty program, which allows skipping the counter, choosing your own car from the Emerald Aisle, and other perks. Vehicles are typically newer/cleaner, and the process is fast and efficient.

• Alamo Rent A Car: Strong performer (often top 5–7 in satisfaction studies) with high ratings on sites like Booking.com (around 9.1/10). It’s popular for leisure and family travel, offering good value, straightforward service, and solid vehicle selection. Like the others above, it’s part of Enterprise Mobility, so you get similar reliability.

• Hertz: A major player with excellent airport presence and loyalty perks (e.g., Hertz Gold). It ranks solidly in mid-tier satisfaction (around 702 in recent J.D. Power) and is widely used, especially by airline loyalty members. Good for quick airport rentals, though experiences can vary more than with the Enterprise brands.

• Sixt (SIXT): A strong challenger that often places in the top 3–5 for satisfaction (tied for #3 at 711 in 2025 J.D. Power). It stands out for premium vehicles, modern fleet, and good service—appealing if you want something nicer than standard economy cars. It’s growing in popularity for those seeking a step up.

Other Notable Options

• Avis and Budget: Reliable mid-tier choices from the same parent company. Avis leans more premium; Budget is better for value. They’re commonly used but generally rank below the leaders in satisfaction surveys.
• Budget options like Dollar or Thrifty (Hertz-owned) or independents like Advantage can save money but often score lower in satisfaction and may involve more hassles.

Quick Tips for US Renters

• Loyalty programs are worth joining (free for most)—they enable counter bypass, faster service, and upgrades. National’s Emerald Club and Hertz Gold are especially praised.
• Compare prices across sites or directly with the companies, as rates fluctuate. Enterprise brands often lead in overall value and convenience.
• Airport rentals are common; bypassing the counter (via app or loyalty) boosts satisfaction significantly.
• For variety or potentially lower costs, peer-to-peer options like Turo exist, but traditional companies dominate for reliability and insurance ease.
• Always check reviews for your specific location, as experiences can vary by city or airport.

Enterprise, National, and Alamo are the safest, most-used bets for most people due to their scale and consistent high marks. National or Sixt if you prioritize speed/premium feel, and Hertz for airport convenience. Book early and compare for the best deal on your trip!

The top car rental companies in the U.S. include Enterprise, National, Alamo, Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, each offering strong fleets, excellent service, and convenient locations.

Top-Ranked Car Rental Companies

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Enterprise consistently ranks as the most popular car rental company in the U.S., renowned for exceptional customer service and a nationwide network of over 6,000 locations, including neighborhood branches. Their fleet spans fuel-efficient sedans, SUVs, and trucks, often newer and well-maintained vehicles. Enterprise Plus loyalty program allows renters to earn points toward free rental days with no blackout dates.

2. National Car Rental

Ideal for business travelers or frequent renters, National provides the Emerald Aisle, letting members skip the counter and choose any midsize car available in the reserved area. They maintain a premium fleet and high-quality service. The focus is speed and convenience, making them excellent for airport rentals.

3. Alamo Rent A Car

Alamo is well-suited for leisure travelers and families, offering large fleets of minivans, convertibles, and SUVs at major tourist destinations like Orlando, Las Vegas, and Hawaii. Their self-service kiosks and Alamo Insiders program provide easy check-in and discounts, making them ideal for vacationers.

4. Hertz

Hertz is a globally recognized brand with a wide network of locations and diverse fleets, including the largest EV rental fleet in North America (Tesla Model 3 and Model Y). Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and the "Ultimate Choice" program allow faster pick-up and vehicle selection. Hertz is strong for travelers seeking premium cars or electric vehicle options.

5. Avis Car Rental

Avis caters to both corporate travelers and leisure renters, featuring a well-maintained fleet including luxury vehicles and the Avis Preferred loyalty program, which expedites renting and offers mobile app management. Avis is particularly reliable for one-way rentals and professional service experiences.

6. Sixt Rent A Car

Sixt brings a European flair with premium German cars (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) at competitive rates. While still limited in U.S. locations compared to Enterprise or Hertz, Sixt is praised for fleet quality, stylish rental branches, and a strong luxury experience +1.

Other Notable Options

Budget – Affordable choice backed by the Avis network; Fastbreak service allows quicker processing. Dollar & Thrifty – Budget-friendly, especially in leisure destinations; loyalty programs enhance value. ACE Rent A Car – Recognized for diversity and customer service excellence. Advantage Rent A Car – Offers international coverage and competitive pricing, though less widespread.

Considerations When Choosing a Rental Company

Location convenience: Enterprise dominates with neighborhood locations; airport access is better with Alamo, National, or Hertz. Loyalty programs: Frequent renters benefit from Enterprise Plus, National Emerald Club, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, or Avis Preferred. Vehicle selection: Sixt excels in premium/luxury vehicles; Budget and Dollar focus on budget-friendly options. Service quality: Enterprise, National, and Alamo are widely praised for smooth pick-up, return processes, and customer experience. Pricing & Extras: Prepaid rentals and promotions can provide significant discounts, but watch for additional fees on insurance, extra drivers, or GPS.

In summary, Enterprise, National, Alamo, Hertz, Avis, and Sixt are the most reliable and popular rental companies in the U.S., balancing fleet quality, service, convenience, and loyalty advantages, while providers like Budget, Dollar, and Thrifty serve cost-conscious travelers effectively.

When renting a car in the United States, your experience usually depends on which "tier" of brand you choose. The American car rental market is heavily consolidated, dominated by three parent giants—Enterprise Mobility, Avis Budget Group, and Hertz Global Holdings—alongside premium European players and popular peer-to-peer apps.

According to major industry benchmarks like the J.D. Power North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study and Business Travel News, the top-rated brands are grouped by what they do best:

🏆 The Premium & Business Leaders

These brands focus heavily on seamless digital tools, newer vehicle fleets, and elite loyalty programs that let you bypass the check-in counter entirely.

National Car Rental: Best For: Frequent fliers and business travelers who hate waiting in lines. Standout Feature: Their legendary Emerald Club loyalty program. If you book a Midsize car, you can completely bypass the physical rental counter, walk straight to the "Emerald Aisle," and drive away in any vehicle you want with the keys already inside. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Best For: Customer service, local neighborhood rentals, and accident replacements. Standout Feature: Enterprise perennially trades the #1 and #2 spots for overall customer satisfaction. While highly visible at airports, they have thousands of "home city" neighborhood branches across the country and will actually drive to your house to pick you up. Hertz: Best For: Corporate travel networks and consistent airport presence. Standout Feature: Named one of the most trusted brands by consumers, the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program offers similar skip-the-line privileges at major hubs. They are also a favorite for renters looking to test out newer Electric Vehicles (EVs).

✈️ The Premium International & Aesthetic Option

SIXT: Best For: High-end German engineering at relatively competitive rates. Standout Feature: SIXT brings a sleek, upscale European vibe to major U.S. airports. Their fleet is on average only a few months old and features a much higher concentration of luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Range Rover than traditional U.S. agencies.

💰 The Best Budget & Out-of-Pocket Brands

If you are paying out of pocket for a vacation and want standard, reliable transportation without the premium price tag, these brands use the exact same vehicle fleets as their luxury sister companies but with fewer frills.

Alamo Rent A Car: Owned by the same parent company as National and Enterprise. It is highly rated among leisure travelers because it offers a streamlined self-service kiosk experience at a lower price point. Budget: The cost-conscious sister brand to Avis. It features one of the largest combined fleets in the country, making it very easy to find availability even during peak travel seasons. Thrifty & Dollar: Budget-focused branches owned by Hertz. They specialize in compact, economical vehicles and frequently offer up to 25% off base rates for online prepayments.

🚗 The Alternative: Peer-to-Peer

Turo: Best For: Skipping traditional corporate rental lots and picking an exact vehicle model. Standout Feature: Often described as the "Airbnb of cars," Turo allows you to rent privately owned vehicles directly from locals. It is massively popular in the U.S. for travelers who want a specific vehicle (like a convertible Jeep in Hawaii or a Tesla in California) and prefer custom drop-offs over airport shuttle buses.

Comparison of Top U.S. Rental Brands

💡 Local Pro-Tips for U.S. Rentals

Don't pay full price up front: Unless a prepaid rate offers massive savings, book a "Pay at Counter" rate. You can track your reservation on metasearch sites like Kayak or use automated tools like AutoSlash to automatically re-book if the price drops before your trip. Check Costco Travel: If you have a Costco wholesale membership, booking through their travel portal frequently beats direct pricing and includes a free second driver fee waiver. Use your credit card for insurance: Most premium U.S. credit cards offer secondary or primary auto rental collision damage waivers. Check your card benefits beforehand so you can confidently decline the expensive insurance pushed at the counter.

To narrow this down, let me know:

What is your primary goal for the rental? (e.g., family road trip, business travel, moving, saving money) Will you be picking up the car at an airport or a local neighborhood neighborhood branch? Do you have any specific vehicle preferences? (e.g., SUVs, electric vehicles, fuel economy, luxury models)