In the search results on VroomVroomVroom, we list hire vehicles grouped by size. We use this vehicle classification because it is easy to understand, and will help you easily find a rental car that suits your needs.
To better explain the differences between vehicles, we’ve put together this brief guide to help you make sense of the classification system. Please note that this is a general guideline only — car rental providers can classify the same vehicle differently, and they often use boot space as an important criteria in doing so.
An economy car is suitable for three to four people and could be either a two- or four-door vehicle with somewhat limited luggage space. These are generally fuel efficient and so come with a relatively low petrol cost. If you’re a traveller on a tight budget, an economy car is often a good choice. Two examples of economy cars are the Suzuki Swift and Toyota Yaris.
Compact cars are suitable for a family of up to four passengers — with luggage (as long as the amount of luggage is not excessive). These normally come in a five-door configuration and, like economy cars, are quite good on the gas. A Toyota Corolla is a typical example of a compact car.
Occupying the middle ground between a compact car and a standard car, intermediate cars are good for those looking for a bit more room than a compact car without the price tag of a standard car. The Hyundai Accent and Hyundai I30 are examples of intermediate cars.
Larger than a compact, economy, or intermediate car, a standard car can be a comfortable choice for five passengers with enough space for their luggage (as long as the amount of luggage is not excessive). While these hire cars will still offer reasonable fuel consumption, it most likely will be higher than that of a smaller rental car. The Hyundai Elantra and Holden Commodore are examples of standard cars.
One step below a sports vehicle, a full size car will have enough space for five passengers and with a larger boot size than a standard car. The Toyota Camry is a good example of a typical full size car.
A premium or luxury car will carry with it a premium or luxury price tag. With a premium or luxury hire car you can expect top-of-the-line features, performance, and comfort. A Holden SV6 and a Holden Caprice V8 are examples of premium and luxury hire cars respectively.
The above are some of the more popular rental car types, but there are also classifications for SUVs, electric cars, vans, and other vehicles types.
If you’ve encountered the term “SIPP codes” while renting a car and wondered what it means, please read our SIPP codes and car rental article, which explains what the acronym refers to. In brief, SIPP codes are used to technically classify rental cars into different groups.
Read more about what you need to know before you book a rental car in Australia.
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