AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Car rental companies: Hertz vs. Turo

Quick Verdict

Hertz is a better choice for renters who value a standardized experience, global availability, and established cleaning protocols. Turo is better for renters looking for a wider variety of vehicles and potentially more flexible pickup and drop-off options, but with more variability in vehicle condition and customer service.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeHertzTuro
Rental PriceWeekly rentals can start as low as $240 per week, excluding taxes and fees. Prices vary depending on location, vehicle type, and booking time. "Pay Now" options typically offer lower rates but may have stricter cancellation policies compared to "Pay Later" options.Ranges widely, can be budget-friendly but may not always be the cheapest. Trip fees can range from 2.5% to over 100% of the trip price.
Vehicle SelectionHertz offers a diverse fleet, ranging from compact cars to luxury vehicles, SUVs, and EVs. Vehicle selection varies based on location.Wide variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury and specialty vehicles. Over 1,600 makes and models.
Insurance OptionsHertz offers various insurance options, including Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS), and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) with Personal Effects Coverage (PEC). LDW waives financial responsibility for damage unless it results from prohibited use. LIS provides liability protection for third-party bodily injury and property damage claims. PAI covers medical expenses for the renter and passengers.Optional protection plans at an additional cost, with varying levels of coverage. Personal or credit card insurance may not apply.
Customer Service QualityCustomer service quality varies, with some customers reporting excellent experiences and others reporting issues such as long wait times and difficulty resolving disputes. Hertz has received recognition for customer satisfaction, including being ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study for two consecutive years.Experiences vary, with some users reporting excellent service and others reporting issues with responsiveness.
Pickup and Drop-off ConvenienceHertz has thousands of locations in major airports, cities, and neighborhoods globally. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program offers faster pickup and exclusive member benefits. Many locations offer after-hours drop-off services.Various options, including delivery to airports, train stations, hotels, and custom locations. Some hosts offer remote handoffs. Turo Go enables 24/7 pickup and drop-off.
Vehicle CleanlinessHertz has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols, including the "Hertz Gold Standard Clean," which involves a 15-point cleaning and sanitization process. The "Hertz Gold Standard Clean" includes disinfecting all contact surfaces with an EPA-approved disinfectant.Varies depending on the car owner.
Mileage PolicyUnlimited miles are included in some rentals, such as those for Uber drivers.Mileage limits with options for daily, weekly, monthly, and unlimited distances. Hosts can set their own limits and charge for extra miles driven.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies vary depending on the rate type. "Pay Later" rates typically allow free cancellation before pickup. "Pay Now" rates may have cancellation fees. Cancelling a "Pay Now" booking at least 24 hours in advance incurs a $100 fee, which doubles to $200 if cancelled less than 24 hours in advance. Refunds for points redemptions are generally returned to the member's account if cancelled before the scheduled pickup.Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip starts. If booking is within 24 hours of the start time, there is a one-hour window to cancel for free. Cancellation fees apply outside the free window.
Geographic AvailabilityHertz operates in over 160 countries.United States, Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom.
Loyalty ProgramsHertz Gold Plus Rewards offers benefits like faster pickup and exclusive member benefits.Loyalty program for US guests, rewarding frequent travelers with a bonus day after booking 10 travel days within 180 days.
Additional FeesAdditional fees may include those for additional drivers, airport concessions, customer facilities, and vehicle licensing. Late return fees apply if the vehicle is returned more than 29 minutes late. Other potential fees include those for fuel and service if the car is not returned with a full tank.Trip fees, young driver fees, airport fees, pickup/return fees, and cleaning fees may apply.
Vehicle Age and ConditionHertz has a "Certified Clean & Safe" program with a 35-point checklist to verify vehicle maintenance and cleanliness. Some reviews suggest that vehicle condition can vary.Vehicles can't be more than 12 years old, must have less than 130,000 miles, and must have a clean title.

Overall Comparison

Hertz: Operates in over 160 countries, Hertz Gold Standard Clean includes a 15-point cleaning. Turo: Over 1,600 makes and models, vehicles can't be more than 12 years old.

Pros and Cons

Hertz

Pros:
  • Diverse fleet of vehicles
  • Thousands of locations globally
  • Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program
  • Enhanced cleaning protocols
Cons:
  • Customer service quality varies
  • Potential for unexpected fees
  • Vehicle condition can vary
  • Cancellation fees for 'Pay Now' rates

Turo

Pros:
  • Wide variety of vehicles
  • Potentially more affordable than traditional rentals
  • Flexible pickup and drop-off options (including Turo Go)
  • Loyalty program for frequent travelers
  • Operates in multiple countries
Cons:
  • Variable customer service quality
  • Potential for unexpected fees
  • Cleanliness and maintenance can vary
  • Mileage limits and extra charges may apply
  • Insurance may not be covered by personal or credit card policies

User Experiences and Feedback