Avis is a better choice for travelers who need a wide selection of vehicles and operate in numerous locations globally. Kyte is a better choice for travelers who want a convenient pick-up and drop-off process with delivery to your location, transparent pricing, and free additional driver option, but it has limited geographic availability.
| Attribute | Avis | Kyte |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Car Variety | Wide selection including SUVs, vans, EVs, trucks, compact cars from brands like Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, with luxury options from BMW, Genesis, and Mercedes-Benz. | Compact cars, midsize cars, SUVs, all-wheel-drive SUVs, and 7-seater SUVs. Brands like Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Jeep, Dodge, and Ford. Exact make and model may vary. |
| Pricing Transparency | Exact amount provided during online booking or at international reservations office. | Prices depend on the car type, location, and rental duration (hourly, daily, or monthly). |
| Insurance Options | LDW (ranges from $9 to $30 per day), PAI, and ALI. | Liability insurance and damage protection. Different tiers of insurance, such as Premium Protection, Standard Protection, and Essential Coverage. Insurance options include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Liability Coverage (RCLI), Supplemental Liability Coverage (SLI), and Roadside Assistance Coverage (RAC). |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Aims to resolve complaints within 5-30 working days via phone, email, or Facebook group. | Live chat and email. Contact via in-app chat or text. |
| Pick-up and Drop-off Convenience | Numerous airport and city locations globally, with self-service via the Avis app. | Delivery and pick-up service by a Kyte employee. Self-pickup options are available at designated garages or lots in some cities. Offers delivery and retrieval just outside the airport at handoff locations. |
| Vehicle Cleanliness | Vehicles cleaned with approved disinfectants, focusing on high-touch areas. | Cars are relatively new and are cleaned and well-maintained. Sanitizes all surfaces in every car before delivery. A cleaning fee may apply if the car is returned with excessive dirt, trash, stains, bodily fluids, or pet hair. |
| Vehicle Maintenance | Regular maintenance with manufacturer-approved parts and trained technicians. | Professionally maintains its fleet of vehicles. |
| Membership/Loyalty Programs | Avis Preferred (three tiers) offers expedited service and points on rentals. | Subscription service for monthly car rentals. |
| Geographic Availability | Operates in approximately 165-170 countries with over 5,000 locations. | Available in a limited number of major cities, including the New York City area and San Francisco. |
| Mobile App Functionality | Book, modify, and manage reservations; Avis Preferred members can choose car make/model and locate gas stations. | App-based service for booking and managing trips. Provides real-time updates on the driver's location. |
| Additional Driver Options | Fee varies by location (e.g., $13/day in most U.S. states, max $65 per rental). | Additional drivers are free. The additional driver must be added before the trip begins and be present at the time of delivery with their driver's license. |
| Cancellation Policy | Free if canceled >24 hours before pick-up; within 24 hours may incur one day's rental fee. 'Pay Now' reservations may have $50-$150 fees. | Cancellations made 48 hours before scheduled delivery are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours of delivery are eligible for a full refund in Kyte credit. Cancellations within 24 hours of delivery will be subject to a $25 cancellation/rescheduling fee, deducted from refunded Kyte credit. |