Economy vs Compact Car: Which One Should You Choose?
For travelers renting a car, economy and compact vehicles are the common options to go with. Economy cars are smaller and more fuel-efficient. On the other hand, compact cars offer extra space and comfort. However, when renting, one has to keep in mind various factors. These include cost, fuel efficiency, passenger capacity, luggage space, driving conditions, and travel duration. Understanding these differences can save money as well as time.
What is the Difference Between Economy and Compact Cars?
The main difference between an economy and a compact rental car is size, space, and comfort. Economy cars are smaller and made to keep rental/fuel costs low. They are easy to drive in cities and also fit well in tight parking areas. In contrast, they offer limited interior and luggage space.
On the contrary, compact cars are slightly bigger. They provide more legroom, better seating comfort, and a larger trunk. Because of their size and stability, they are more suitable for longer drives, highways, and trips with more passengers or luggage.
Is an Economy Car Rental Cheaper than a Compact Car Rental?
Yes, economy cars have a lower daily rental rate compared to compact cars. The total costs of the former are inclusive of insurance, fuel, and add-ons. Alternatively, compact cars cost slightly more per day, but they offer more comfort and space.
The average rent of economy cars is $25 to $40 per day.
For compact, it is $30 to $50 per day.
The weekly rentals for an economy car are $150 to $250.
But for compact, these are $180 to $300.
For 100 km, the fuel cost for an economy car rental is $5 to $6.
However, for compact cars, it is $6 to $7.
The add-on costs, including GPS, child seat, etc., are similar for both.
Which Car has Better Fuel Efficiency- Economy or Compact?
Typically, economy vehicles have smaller engines, lighter weight, and are designed with maximum fuel efficiency. However, compact vehicles also provide a good option for drivers looking for a vehicle that is fuel-efficient for long-distance trips.
Economy vehicles average is 30-40 miles per gallon (7-8 litres/100 km) of fuel.
Compact vehicles average is 25-35 miles per gallon (8-9 litres/100 km) of fuel.
The fuel tank capacity of an economy car is between 35 and 40 litres.
The fuel tank capacity of a compact vehicle is typically between 45 and 50 litres.
Economy vehicles excel at driving in stop-and-go city traffic,
Compact vehicles perform better when driven on the highway.
How much Passenger/Cargo Space do Economy Cars Provide Compared to Compact Cars?
Generally, compact vehicles provide more passenger and cargo space than economy vehicles. Hence, compact vehicles are a better choice for longer trips or when travelling with luggage.
Economy vehicles typically seat four adults comfortably.
Compact vehicles typically seat five adults comfortably.
Economy vehicles have rear legroom between 81 and 85 cm.
Compact vehicles have rear legroom between 90 and 95 cm.
Trunk volume of economy vehicles is between 220 and 250 litres.
However, the trunk volume of compact vehicles is between 350 and 400 litres.
The ideal amount of luggage for economy vehicles is 1-2 small suitcases.
The ideal amount of luggage for compact vehicles is 2-3 medium-sized suitcases.
Which Type of Car Rental is Easier to Drive and Park in Urban Areas, Economy or Compact?
Since economy vehicles are typically lighter and smaller than compact vehicles, they are easier to drive and park in congested urban areas. In contrast, compact vehicles offer stability at higher speeds.
The turning radius for economy vehicles is generally between 4.5 and 5.0 meters.
For compact vehicles, it is between 5.0 and 5.5 meters.
Parking ease is much higher for economy vehicles compared to compact vehicles.
An economy vehicle is likely best suited for short, city-only trips.
Are Economy or Compact Cars Better for Long Distance Road Trips?
Compact cars are typically more comfortable, stable, and have more luggage space. It decreases driver fatigue and improves highway performance. Also, it has 10-15 cm more ride height than an economy vehicle. Additionally, it absorbs bumps in the road better than an economy car.
For an economy car, the fuel range per full tank is 450-500 km (280-310 miles).
While compact vehicles are usually capable of 600-700 km (370-435 miles).
Compact vehicles usually offer rear leg room between 90-95 cm (36-38 inches).
Whereas economy cars typically have 81-85 cm (32-34 inches) of leg room.
Can Rental Companies Upgrade an Economy Booking to a Compact?
Yes, if an economy car is not available, upgrades are common at most rental locations. Often, these upgrades are free or at a low cost. Many rental car agencies will permit it during peak season or airport pick-ups.
Upgrades are based on availability and rental car policies.
Economy cars are usually upgraded to compacts, intermediates, or similar class vehicles.
Be sure to read and understand all terms and conditions prior to booking a vehicle to avoid additional fees.
In brief, economy cars are chosen for their affordability, fuel efficiency, and easy handling when travelling short distances. On the other hand, compact cars offer a larger interior space and luggage capacity than economy vehicles. It makes them suitable for longer journeys and highway driving.
