Best car rental in Toronto: Comprehensive guide

If you travel often, you already know that renting a car just makes things easier. Because when you land in a new city, you don’t want to be stuck figuring out transport. Or waiting for cabs. Or checking train routes. And while public transport is awesome in a city like Toronto, having your own car gives you control. You can explore downtown, head out to Niagara Falls, or take spontaneous drives across Ontario.  

In this guide, we’ll break down the best car rental in Toronto, how each company works, and which one might suit your travel requirements. Let’s dig in.

Which are the best car rentals in Toronto?

Toronto has a mix of global brands and reliable local operators. And most major companies operate directly from Toronto Pearson International Airport, so that makes pick-up and drop-off simple for you. Here are six solid options worth considering.

1. Enterprise

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is one of the biggest names in the global car rental industry. It was founded in 1957, and today, it operates the largest rental network in the world, with around 9,500+ locations across nearly 100 countries. What really sets Enterprise apart is its focus on neighborhood rentals as well as airport locations, meaning you can rent a car both when traveling and in your own city. 

Locations

Enterprise has 35+ convenient neighborhood car rental locations in Toronto + a counter at the Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).

Booking options

Website, app, and in-person rentals available.

Additional services

• Long-term rentals.
• Insurance coverage options.
• Vehicle upgrades.
• Roadside assistance.

Types of cars available

• Compact cars like Nissan Versa, and Mitsubishi Mirage.
• SUVs such as Kia Niro, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada.
• Vans like Chevy Express E35C, and Ford Transit Wagon.
• Luxury vehicles like Audi A5, BMW 3, and Nissan Maxima.
• AWD & 4X4s like Ford Expedition Max, Jeep Wagoneer L, and Lincoln Navigator.
• Trucks like Ford F250, and Chevrolet Silverado EV Crew Cab 2WD. 

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals are available across Canada.

2. Hertz

Founded in 1918 in the United States, Hertz is one of the oldest and most recognized car rental companies out there. It operates in over 150 countries, so there’s a level of consistency you can expect no matter where you rent from. Over the years, it has built a solid reputation with both business and leisure travelers. And it’s a go-to option for many.

Locations

6 locations across Toronto, including the Toronto Pearson International Airport, and the Billy Bishop Toronto Airport.

Booking options

Booking can be done through website, mobile app, and physical counters.

Additional services

• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program for faster pickup and rental points.
• Digital check-in through the Hertz mobile app.
• 24/7 roadside assistance.
• Vehicle replacement services.
• GPS navigation devices and satellite radio options.
• Insurance protection packages.

Types of cars available

• Economy and compact cars like Chevrolet Spark, and Nissan Versa.
• Sedans and midsize vehicles like Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Sonata, and Nissan Altima.
• SUVs and crossovers such as Toyota RAV4, and Chevrolet Equinox.
• Large SUVs such as Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition.
• Electric vehicles including Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt.
• Luxury and sports vehicles such as BMW 5 Series, Porsche Macan, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals across Canada are available.

3. Avis

Avis is one of those names that constantly comes up when you’re looking for the best car rental company in Toronto. Founded in 1946, it was actually the first to offer car rentals directly at airports, which kind of shaped how the industry works today. Now, Avis operates across more than 165 countries, and over the years, it has built a strong reputation for reliability and business-friendly services.

Locations

Avis operates from 11 locations across Toronto.

Booking options

You can book online or through the company’s mobile app. Or you can book it directly at the counters.

Additional services

• Avis Preferred loyalty program with expedited pickup.
• Roadside assistance and emergency support services.
• Optional insurance coverage and protection packages.
• GPS units, child safety seats, and additional driver options.
• Corporate rental programs for business travelers.
• Long-term rental deals for extended trips.

Types of cars available

• Compact and midsize sedans like Hyundai Elantra, and Nissan Altima.
• SUVs and crossovers including Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.
• Premium SUVs such as Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Highlander.
• Luxury sedans like BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
• Minivans such as Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Grand Caravan.
• Electric vehicles at select locations.

One-way rentals

Yes. One-way rentals are available nationwide.

4. Budget

Launched in 1958, Budget was built around one simple idea: Offering affordable rentals without cutting down on the basics. Today, it operates in around 3,500 locations across more than 120 countries. What makes Budget stand out is its focus on value for money. Which is why it’s popular with travelers who want a reliable car without paying premium prices. 

Locations

Budget operates from 9 locations across Toronto, including a shuttle for Billy Bishop Toronto Island Airport.

Booking options

Website, app, and counter bookings accepted.

Additional services

• Budget-friendly pricing.
• Add-ons like GPS and child seats.
• Insurance coverage.
• Fuel plans.
• Roadside assistance.

Types of cars available

• Budget offers cars like Ford Escape, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Kicks Play, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Malibu, as well as 7-seaters like Chrysler Pacifica.

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals are available.

5. Alamo

Alamo is one of those brands you’ll often see at major airports. Founded in 1974, it gives you access to a massive global network. And it operates in 1,100+ locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. The brand is especially known for offering competitive pricing and a no-fuss rental experience, with features like online check-in and self-service kiosks.  

Locations

Alamo has 2 locations in Toronto. One at the Toronto Pearson International Airport. And the second one at the Toronto Union Station.

Booking options

You can rent vehicles online through the Alamo website or mobile app, as well as in person at rental counters. 

Additional services

• Alamo Insiders program offering 5% savings on base rental rates.
• Accelerated online check-in to reduce waiting time at the rental counter.
• Last-minute and advance booking deals for rentals.
• Flexible booking options including pay-later reservations.
• Travel planning tools such as driving directions and destination tips.
• High vehicle maintenance and cleaning standards through the company’s “Standard of Care” program.

Types of cars available

• Economy and compact cars like Mitsubishi Mirage, and Fiat 500.
• Sedans and midsize cars such as Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta, and Nissan Maxima.
• Hybrid and electric vehicles like Toyota Prius, Tesla Model 3, and Nissan Leaf.
• Luxury sedans like Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Maserati Quattroporte, and Mercedes-Benz.
• Sports and performance cars such as Ford Mustang GT, Dodge Challenger, Porsche 911, and Chevrolet Corvette.
• SUVs and crossovers like Nissan Rogue, Ford Explorer, and Jeep Wrangler.
• Large and luxury SUVs like Lincoln Navigator, Range Rover Sport, and BMW X7.
• Pickup trucks like Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Silverado EV.
• Passenger vans and minivans such as Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Transit passenger van.

One-way rentals

Alamo allows one-way rentals, especially between major airports and popular travel destinations. 

6. Dollar Car Rental

Dollar Car Rental is a budget-focused brand. Founded in 1965, it started as a low-cost alternative in the car rental space, and even now, it leans heavily into that positioning. It is now owned by The Hertz Corporation, which means it shares infrastructure, fleet access, and systems with Hertz and Thrifty. All for budget-friendly pricing. And it operates in hundreds of locations worldwide, covering major travel hubs and airports. 

Locations

Dollar Car Rental operates from 4 locations in Toronto, and from 4 locations in the neighbouring city of Mississauga.

Booking options

Website and in-person rentals.

Additional services

• Discount pricing.
• Add-on insurance.
• Fuel plans.
• Child seats.

Types of cars available

• Dollar Car Rental offers vehicles like Chrysler 300, Toyota Highlander, GMC Yukon, Volkswagen Jetta, Nissan Murano, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Kicks, and Chevrolet Spark.

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals are available.

How to choose the best car rental in Toronto

Yes, I know, all the companies are offering the same! So how do you choose? Well, check on their websites. Online prices are usually better, and you can decide which price for which vehicle best suits your needs.

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Niyati Shinde

Freelance writer

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