Key Factors for Choosing a Car for Renting

Car renting has become an attractive option compared to buying, but making the right choice requires analyzing key factors such as usage, costs, mileage, and contract duration to avoid surprises.

Key Factors for Choosing a Car for Renting
We tell you what you need to know before choosing a rented car.

9 min read

Published: 17/09/2025 14:00

Car renting has become an increasingly popular alternative, both for individuals and companies. This option, which is practical and efficient, allows you to use a new car without the need to buy it.

To do this, a monthly payment is made that covers almost all related costs: maintenance, insurance, taxes, and roadside assistance. In return, you do not own the vehicle and agree to a contract for a specified period that generally ranges from 3 to 5 years.

One of the main advantages of renting compared to conventional buying is that the user does not have to worry about the depreciation of the vehicle

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When selecting a rented car, it is not only relevant to consider the model or brand. There are several determining elements that can differentiates a contract that meets specific needs from one that does not meet expectations or is excessively costly.

Next, we will review the factors to consider before signing a renting agreement, information provided by professionals from Rentingcoches.com.

Vehicle Usage: Aspects to Consider

A fundamental aspect regarding a rented car is the type of usage it will have. It is not the same to choose a vehicle for short distances in the city as for long trips or frequent road travel.

For urban environments, compact vehicles are most recommended, which basically provide good fuel efficiency and have reduced dimensions. In contrast, for those who make long-distance trips, cars with efficient engines and greater comfort on the road are the most suitable option.

It is also essential to consider whether the usage will be for personal or professional purposes. A car used by a company may require a more formal image, more space, or additional functionalities.

In addition, it is important to determine if a family vehicle is needed that specifically has a spacious trunk and advanced safety systems, whether practicality or economic savings are desired.

Cost and Payment of the Fee

Typically, renting tends to attract society's attention due to the payments: they are made monthly and not in a single payment. The total cost should include all the services offered, such as insurance, maintenance, roadside assistance, tire changes, and taxes, among others. Some proposals that seem cheap at first may turn out to be more expensive when all services are considered.

On the other hand, it is important to know if there are charges for early cancellation, what happens in the event of a total accident, or if the mileage limit can be increased. These aspects directly affect the real cost of the fee. Simply evaluating different offers under the same standards is, therefore, the best way to choose appropriately.

Contract and Mileage

The term of a leasing contract usually ranges from two to five years. A longer contract generally results in lower monthly payments, although this may reduce flexibility, an aspect that is often socially appreciated.

If a substantial change in personal aspects is anticipated in the short term, such as an increase in family members or a new job, it is preferable to opt for agreements designed for the short term, even if this may incur a higher monthly cost.

Annual mileage is another aspect to consider. If the agreed limit is exceeded, the fees for each extra kilometer can be quite high. Therefore, it is essential to realistically estimate the number of kilometers intended to be traveled in a year and consider an additional margin.

The Nissan Qashqai is one of the most popular models among renting users

This can provide some flexibility and the guarantee that objectives will be met; in fact, it is often very appealing to companies, which offer the possibility to modify or increase mileage during the term of the contract.

As noted by Rentingcoches.com, an online portal specialized in car renting, "before choosing a model, it is advisable to analyze not only the monthly fee but also the duration of the contract, the mileage policy, and the estimated buyback value." Sometimes — they indicate — "an offer with a slightly higher fee can be more profitable if the contract includes maintenance extras or comprehensive insurance without a deductible."

Depreciation and Vehicle Value

One of the main advantages of renting compared to conventional buying is that the user does not have to worry about the depreciation of the vehicle. The higher the value the car has at the end of the agreement (or its resale value), the lower the monthly fee will be, which is very interesting for individuals and companies. For this reason, vehicles that increase in value tend to present more attractive rental conditions.

Brands that perform better in the used car sector, such as Toyota, Volkswagen, or Audi, allow for more beneficial offers in renting. In contrast, vehicles that lose value quickly or are not in high demand in the used car market tend to be more expensive to rent.

Do your needs change? With renting, you can easily adapt your vehicle to them.

List of the Best Renting Cars

  • Nissan Qashqai: A small SUV with contemporary design, ideal for both the city and long trips. Mild hybrid engine and ECO certification.
  • Citroën Berlingo: Spacious capacity ideal for families. Perfect for professional or domestic use, available in combi and commercial versions.
  • Renault Kangoo: A vehicle aimed at the commercial sector that provides good adaptability and electric options. Comfortable to drive and has a spacious trunk.
  • Ford Transit: A large van, ideal for transporting goods or passengers.
  • Peugeot 208: A city car with a modern design and great fuel efficiency. Perfect for families and daily use.
  • Opel Corsa: A compact car that is agile and comfortable, suitable for the city, with gasoline, diesel, or electric engine options.
  • Renault Clio: A harmonious utility vehicle that stands out for its spaciousness. Notable for low fuel consumption, safety, and hybrid versions.
  • Volkswagen Tiguan: A medium SUV that stands out for its interior space. Perfect for families, it features 4Motion traction and high performance on the road.
  • BMW X1: A high-end SUV with an exceptional driving experience and contemporary finishes. Integrates technology and efficient engine.
  • Volkswagen T-Roc: A compact SUV with comprehensive equipment and a good balance between performance, comfort, and efficiency.

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