Big 2.8's Fleet Sales Down 1%
Despite The Big 2.8's mantra that their declining market share and evaporating sales volume reflect a concerted effort to reduce dependence on low-margin bulk sales, Automotive News [AN, sub] reports that Detroit's fleet sales have declined by just one percent during the first five months of '07 vs. '06. Fleet sales still account for roughly 25 percent of GM's total, 32 percent of Ford's and 35 percent of Chrysler's (a slight increase from last year). Into the breach dear Horatio: the transplants. Toyota/Lexus/Scion's fleet sales have increased from seven to 11 percent. Fueled by corporate demand for the new Altima, Nissan's fleet sales rose from nine to 15 percent. One fourth of all Kia sales now sail with the fleets (up from a fifth). And Mazda's fleet sales jumped from 18 to 24 percent of their total. The numbers reveal a stunning lack of resolve by Detroit, and a residual-threatening expansion for their competition.
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Generally, when renting cars from a major chain, you don't get to choose what specific make/model car you get, just how big it is. Since, as Pch101 mentioned, you're not really going to care all that much during your 2 day rental, the car rental company will buy whatever is cheapest.
One of the things I've noticed with car rental companies is that they are pushing more non-insurance related rentals when they can. When that happens, they've recognized that people want a choice of what they want to rent and are getting more makes in so people have a choice. I don't know about the rest of the people on here, but when I have to rent a car for business, I'd like the option of renting something other than the standard American cars they generally provide. Oddly, my last four insurance related rentals have been import brands over the years. 3 years ago it was a Hyundai. Two years ago a Corolla. Last year a Nissan, and this year a Kia.
While pleasure traveling once or twice a year I rent a car. I specify and SUV or sometimes a Convertible But I do make it clear GM. Ford. or Chrysler I drive a rental as if it was my own.I've never had a problem.