Top Car Rental Companies of 2021

Car Rental Market Overview

Car rental services have become an essential part of the global mobility ecosystem, offering flexible, affordable, and convenient travel options for both individuals and businesses. Whether for business trips, vacations, or temporary transportation needs, rental cars provide independence and accessibility—especially in areas where public transport is limited or time constraints make it impractical.

The demand for car rental services surged in 2021 as travel resumed post-pandemic, driven by safety preferences, changing work patterns, and the rise of leisure road trips. Consumers increasingly sought reliable rental companies offering transparent pricing, diverse vehicle options, and superior service experiences. This shift has positioned leading rental brands at the forefront of the global shared mobility market.

Key Car Rental Companies

Alamo

Alamo stands out as one of the most popular and customer-friendly car rental companies, widely recognized for its attractive offers and discounts. It provides one of the lowest rates for additional drivers compared to competitors and features the Alamo Insider Program, granting members a guaranteed 5% discount on retail rates. Additionally, members of the National Education Association renting for five days or more receive an extra rental day free of cost. Customers consistently highlight Alamo’s industry-leading service quality, competitive pricing, and well-maintained vehicle fleet, making it a preferred choice among budget-conscious travellers.

Enterprise

Enterprise Rent-A-Car ranks among the top global players due to its vast network and strong customer focus. Operating in over 6,000 locations worldwide, Enterprise is known for its transparent pricing and minimal hidden fees. The average daily rental rate is approximately $50, offering strong value for money. Enterprise caters to both individual and corporate clients, providing specialized packages for medium-term rentals, relocations, and business mobility. For luxury and special occasions, Enterprise also offers an exclusive collection of exotic cars, enhancing its appeal to high-end customers.

Hertz

As one of the largest and most recognized car rental companies globally, Hertz operates across 1,600+ airport locations in the U.S. alone. With an average daily rental rate of around 48.50 USD, Hertz offers a wide range of vehicles—from luxury sedans and SUVs to family-friendly and business-class cars. The company’s long-standing partnership with Ford enables customers to rent exclusive vehicles like the iconic Mustang Hertz edition. Additionally, Hertz’s advanced NeverLost GPS Program enhances the driving experience by offering digital trip planning, downloadable travel guides, and real-time navigation assistance, setting a new standard for tech-enabled car rental services.

National

National Car Rental is highly regarded for its excellent customer service and broad vehicle portfolio, catering to both corporate and individual clients. It offers a wide selection ranging from compact economy cars to premium and cargo vehicles. National’s streamlined rental process and responsive support team have made it a preferred choice for businesses seeking reliability and efficiency. With competitive pricing and a focus on customer satisfaction, National continues to strengthen its position as a leading mobility partner in global rental markets.

Market Insights and Consumer Trends

The global car rental market is evolving rapidly, supported by technological integration, digital booking platforms, and the rise of sustainable travel. Key trends shaping the sector include:

• Increased Digitalization: Online booking, contactless check-ins, and mobile-based car management have enhanced user convenience.
• Fleet Diversification: Companies are expanding offerings to include electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid models, aligning with global sustainability goals.
• Personalized Experiences: Flexible rental durations, subscription-based car access, and loyalty programs are redefining customer engagement.
• Corporate Travel Revival: As businesses resume operations, demand for long-term and executive rentals is rising steadily.

The car rental industry is expected to continue expanding as travel preferences evolve, urbanization accelerates, and consumers seek affordable, safe, and flexible mobility options.

Conclusion

The Top Car Rental Companies of 2021—including Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, and National—have set industry benchmarks through innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. With a strong focus on convenience, digital transformation, and sustainability, these companies are reshaping the global travel landscape.

As the mobility sector transitions toward a more digital, eco-friendly, and experience-driven future, leading car rental providers are expected to play a pivotal role in connecting people, places, and opportunities with greater flexibility and confidence.