Last year we asked subscribers to our e-newsletter: “If you had the choice of driving any make/model available, what would it be?” Audi cars ended up getting the most votes and having read some reviews of the A4 and the A6 I am not surprised. The Times says the A4 is now “more than a match for the BMW 3-series” while the A6 is described as a “superbly refined cruiser”.
So, I was delighted to hear that our fleet team had successfully negotiated Audis on to our UK fleet. The Audis we have available are the A4, as a saloon and an estate, and the A6 saloon. The A4 saloon comes in the manual version and the A6 as an automatic, while the A4 estate is available with both transmissions.
As we know that the Audis will be popular we have decided to offer them exclusively in our Select Series (previously known as Choice Fleet). This means that when you book an Audi in the UK, we guarantee you will get an Audi – and the model that you have chosen. Many of our Audis also include built-in satellite navigation, so you may well get this facility at no extra charge.
The Audi A4 and A6 are available at Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Edinburgh airports and at our Mayfair location in central London.
So, the question is now back with you – are there any other cars you would like to see in the Select Series? And will you be booking an Audi?
(3 votes, average: 4.33 out of 5)
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I am delighted that Avis has selected Audi. I have booked an A4 Estate for our July vacation in UK.
Hi, i have just bookes an Audi A6 for 2 weeks in the summer at London Heathrow. Can you please tell me what spec they are and do they have leather seats etc…
Hi ,
It does have leather seats, large alloy wheels, integrated satnav & bluetooth , and is automatic. Truly a luxury drive ! Enjoy ….
Hi, thanks for the reply – yes the blog is a great service!!!!
And… the prices for the select cars seem to have been reduced a bit more down to earth now.
Didn’t really make much sense that when I rented a Merc E280 a few weeks ago, the prices for the 2.0 A6 was £200 more for the week!!!
Hi,
can I drop off the select series car at a different rental station ?
You can drop off a Select Series car at a different location as long as that location also offers Select Series cars. These locations are Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham airport, Manchester airport, Glasgow airport and Edinburgh airport as well as our location in Mayfair, Central London. We do not allow “one ways” to a non-Select Series location because it would be very expensive to get the cars back to a Select Series location again and we limit it to these locations as trying to fulfil a “guarantee a make/model” promise across the whole country would be very, very difficult. I hope that makes sense!
I have just rented the Audi A4 from the select series at gatwick airport, can you tell me if it has intergrated SatNav?
Hi Caroline, all bookings for our Audi cars in the UK include sat nav although not all of our Audi cars have sat nav integrated. If you receive an Audi without integrated sat nav then you will be given one of our TomToms instead as a separate unit.
Are these available in Ireland?
Hi Sam, there is currently no product in Ireland that would allow you to guarantee an Audi (I don’t believe that Audis are available on the fleet in Ireland).
If you are interested, other countries that have a selection of cars that can be guaranteed by make/model include Germany with their ‘Fun’ car range (which includes the Audi TT Roadster), France with their ‘Passion’ fleet and the US with their ‘Cool’ cars. Not all of these are available on the website yet so the best way to book them is by calling our call centre on 08445 81 81 81.
Hi. I need a vehicle in eraly August to take 4 adults to the Netherlands for a 4 day break, but also need to move some furnishing/clothes to a flat on the way. Is it possible to hire form Avis a large MPV with all but 4 seats removed , so I can combine the 2 tasks ?
My suggestion if you need to transport a lot of furniture is to rent a van. They can take the knocks a bit better than an MPV can and we always advise to avoid the damage as you would be liable for an excess up to £600. We offer vans at locations in Burnley, Crawley, Leyland, Maidstone, Macclesfield, Stoke and Wrexham and these can be booked by calling our call centre on 08445 81 81 81.
If you need the extra room for your passengers then an MPV should do the job and they do have removable seats. How you use the car is up to you but bear in mind you will be liable for the cost of the seats if they go missing and for any damage that might be caused by the furniture. We don’t want you to get stung for these charges so please careful! Also, if you are taking the car out of the UK remember to request our Continental Cover in advance of picking up your car to make sure you have the necessary cover to drive in Europe. Simply call the station you are renting from to request this. And finally remember to bring the car back to the UK otherwise expect a very expensive penalty charge!
Appalling! I have sent (and resent) a complaint to your customer services dept with no acknowlegement (after 2 weeks). I have now just spoken with ‘an advisor’ who clearly found it impossible to answer this complaint who preferred to hang up! Avis is consistant I suppose!
Hi Kieron, I apologise that you have not had a satisfactory response from us. I recently wrote a post acknowledging comments from customers who had not received a response to a query they had previously sent to us and some of the responses we received from this allowed us to identify and rectify certain issues. Clearly there may still some work to be done.
We will be in touch with you directly to investigate your rental.
Can you guaranty what colour audi i would get ifi were to book one?
Hi Shuel! We’re not quite at the level yet where we can guarantee the colour. However, if you ask the rental agent when you pick up your car I’m sure they’ll try to give you the colour you want, if there is one available
I want to hire an Audi A6 for a week at the beginning of September. My wife and I are thinking of buying a new car and see this as a way of having an extended test drive. Other car hire providers also say that they will “guarantee” the make and model of the car, but when you arrive you find out you’ve been given the “or similar vehicle”, not ideal when you ordered a specific car. Do you really guarantee the make and model of the car?
Hello Graham,
The short answer to your question is “yes” we can guarantee an A6 by make and model in selected locations.
Earlier this year, we have launched ou “Select Series” fleet for these very customers who wanted to book a car by make and model. It is available in our busiest locations, including most london airports, london Mayfair, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh. It features top cars like the 207cc, Golf, and different models of A4 and A6.
It’s a service I’m very proud of, as we were the first car hire company to do it. Please feel free to peruse our website for more information: http://www.avis.co.uk/VehiclesAndServices/Select-Series
One question about the Audi A4’s in the Select Series. Do they have cruise control?
Thanks!
There is no easy answer to this I’m afraid. We have the A4 SE and the A4 S-line on fleet. The SE comes with cruise control and the S-line does not! I’m told that there are more S-lines than SEs so there is a greater likelihood that you won’t get cruise control.
Thanks for the answer! I have an A4 booked for later this month at Gatwick. At least now I know I should ask for an SE. I assume there’s no way to confirm that in advance? Thanks again.
Unfortunately we cannot guarantee it down to that level of detail. As you say, the best thing to do is ask at the desk.
Enjoy your A4!
Rob
Hi, Avis have done really well with this select series range, it guarantee’s you the vehicle in hand rather than turning up and getting a car you dont want
i have booked a 2.0 TDI rather than the 1.9 TDI could you tell me the difference between the two models please
Thanks for the great service
Simon
IT Systems Analyst
Hi it says that UK Audi’s have integrated Sat Nav’s but if they dont you will be given a TomTom is there a charge for this,thanks
Simon
IT Systems Analyst
Hi Simon, thanks for the feedback. It is really nice to hear!
There are essentially four options for the Audi A4. The 1.9 TDI will be the Audi A4 with a manual transmission. You can select between either a saloon or an estate size car. The 2.0 TDI will be the Audi A4 with an automatic transmission. Again you can select between a saloon or an estate.
Your question raises a good point, that this might not necessarily be clear on the website so we will look to make the description a bit clearer.
With regards, to your second question – no there will be no charge for a TomTom if the Audi does not have integrated sat nav.
Rob
Hi Avis
Avis have to be the leading company for car rental, especially for the outstanding customer service, satisfaction and piece of mind knowing the service you recieve is what the customer requires, after all they do try harder
I have another Audi A4 booked at manachester, i was puzzled at the difference between the two models A4 1.9 TDI and A4 2.0 TDI, there was quite a bit of a price difference between the two models, prior to this a friend had rented and stated that the 2.0 TDI is a S line model where as the 1.9 TDI is a SE
Is this statement correct?
Kind Regards
Mr Hussain
Dear Simon and Mr. Hussain,
I am not Rob (well I am, but a different one…) nor am I part of the Avis team, but I might be able to help with the question regarding the difference between the 1.9TDI and 2.0TDI.
First, and Rob has already mentioned this, the 1.9 is a Manuel while the 2.0 is an Auto.
So that could already effect your decision, depending on whether it was a Manuel or an Auto you wanted to drive.
The other difference is the engine and although it may seem that there couldn’t be much between the two since on is a 1.9 and the other a 2.0, trust me when I say there is a big difference.
The 1.9 isn’t the smoothest of engines, it’s not very refined, and it is quite noisy.
It’s also a bit sluggish, but ok with a Manual gearbox.
The 2.0 however is in a different league.
It’s a very smooth diesel, refined, relatively quiet, and fast.
I can’t comment on whether there is a different in spec between the cars, but I am sure Rob can answer that one!
Hi Mr. Hussain, thanks for the nice comments! As Robert states, the primary difference between the 1.9 and 2.0 is that the 1.9 is a manual and the 2.0 is an automatic. Automatics are more expensive to rent than a manual hence the price differential. Also, you are correct, at the moment the 1.9 manual is an SE and the 2.0 automatic is an S-line.
Robert – thanks for your contribution and advice!
Rob,
Are all the VW Golf’s in the select range 1.6 Liter?
I know the booking system online says they are 1.6, but then there are many cars the booking system does not mention…
Regards
Robert
At the moment we have 1.9 diesel as well. In fact, at this present time, the 1.9 diesel accounts for the majority!
Hi Rob,
Just wanted to say I was chuffed when I found out about the Select Series offering (its exactly the kind of thing I want from a car rental company), and thought I’d try and slip in a quick question as well
I have booked a manual A4 with the intention of driving over to Ireland (via the ferry from Holyhead) next month, and I was glad to read that all the Audis come with sat-nav. What I am wondering is whether the sat-nav will continue to function once I am in Ireland… are they DVD-based units, and can I obtain a disc for Ireland when I pick up the car? (Providing advance warning is not a problem, as I have to call ahead to organise “Continental Cover” for the trip anyway)
Cheers,
Adam
Hi Adam, I am delighted that you like our Select Series!
I have spoken to our fleet team and the in-built sat nav in our Audis include maps for Ireland. In the case that the Audi does not have in-built sat nav (not all of them do) you will receive one of our Tom Toms which also include maps for Ireland.
I hope this helps. Have a great trip to Ireland!
Rob
Hi Rob,
How come Avis Select cannot be booked through avis.com?
Regards,
Robert
Hi Robert, Select Series can be booked on avis.com but it is a bit of a workaround at the moment! To book a Select Series car you will need to type Heathrow in the ‘City/Town’ box rather than typing LHR in the airport code field. Then when you click ‘Continue’ it will ask you to choose between the Heathrow or Select Series – Heathrow location. Obviously it’s not ideal but as the US website is set up different to ours it is the only way to make it work in the short-term!
Rob
Interesting, can’t believe I didn’t figure that one out myself…
But it is true I always put in LHR rather then Heathrow!
Thanks Rob.
I’m driving an Audi A6 at the moment, and it’s really a great car. Great handling, superb torque and good looking. It comes with paddle shift which I had never tried before on a car.
I’m not suprised that we’re renting so many of them.
Looking forward to trying it out
I’m thinking about writing a post on what would be my fantasy fleet – for a bit of fun. Good idea?
hi there
I am wanting to hire a select series(one of Audi) for a week at heathrow .Ok my ques – we are 3 adults and 2 infants(10 months old) and have about 7 pieces of luggage.Is is compulsory to drive them in car seats in UK or can we put then in baby carriers around us.
Also which audi is the best on mileage? and what can I do about the luggage-is there an extra luggage holder I can attach on top of the car or can avis store my luggage for a week as i fly to US then.
it would be great if we could book the car of our choice at any location and not just major airports, think about it
Hi Parul, there are child seat rules in the UK and an infant of 10 months old would require a baby seat.
If by mileage you mean miles per gallon then our Audis are in this order starting with the most economical… A4 saloon, A4 Avant (estate) and A6 saloon.
In terms of luggage. Obviously the car that accomodates for the most luggage is the A4 Avant which is an estate car. It does not officially hold 7 bags (we tell our customers it holds 4 suitcases) but it obviously depends on the size of the luggage. Unfortunately, we do not have luggage holders available to rent out and we do not have a facility to store luggage.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Rob
It would be great to offer this product at every location, g meace. The problem is actually being able to fulfil the promise of guaranteeing a make/model at every location.
It’s a bit complicated to explain but basically many of our off-airport locations have a small number of cars. These cars will often move from location to location (due to one way rentals) and the availability of certain cars can be very tight. This would make it very difficult to guarantee you actually get the make/model you booked and so rolling this out across every location could cause more issues for our customers than it would good. It is much easier to manage with a smaller number of our busiest locations.
However, one thing about Avis is that we like to think that nothing is impossible so you never know! And this kind of feedback is great so keep it coming!
Rob
Hi Parul,
It sounds like you would be much better choosing the Large: People Carrier group which would be a Renault Espace or similar, or alternatively the VW Sharan from the select series.
Robert
Thanks Rob for all your help.I think I’d pick up A4 avant 2.0. Just wondering if you have A6 avant 2.0 or Audi Q7 or any SUV(BMW x.5 or MERC ML series)available for rentals
Parul
No problem Parul!
Unfortunately we do not have an A6 Avant. However, we do have the Q7, X5 and ML on our Prestige fleet. You can find out more on our Prestige website http://www.avisprestige.com. Alternatively, if you do not think an estate would be big enough, you could try Robert’s suggestion of renting a large people carrier and use the spare seats to store the extra luggage.
Let me know if there is anything more I can do to help with your choice of car!
Rob
thanks for so much of help robert..really appreciate and sorry to bother you more.I surfed throught the fleet again and think large people carrier sounds comfortable for the journey.3 things I need to know :1.Can I be guaranteed the Renault Espace 2.2 .2- Can I knw more information on the espace model,is this the one on diesel.And can the second row of seats be turned around to face the people in last row.and the final question is if i book an audi avant 2.0 and paynow ,can i change the car at the location incase i dont like the one i paid for..
thanks a lot
regards
parul
It’s no bother Parul. I’m sure many of our customers want to know the same thing! Anyway the answers you seek…
1. The Espace cannot be guaranteed. If you booked this car category there is also a good chance you could get a Peugeot 807 and a small chance you could get a Kia Sedona, although the Espace accounts for the largest proportion. Alternatively, if you book the VW Sharan on our Select Series then this is a guaranteed make/model.
2. The Renault Espace is a Grand Dynamique (some with a 2.0 engine but most with a 2.2 engine). All Espaces are diesels. I’m told by Renault that the 2nd row seats can be turned around (clipped out, turned around and clipped back in again) but I get the impression that this is not particular straight forward and I would not recommend it!
3. Yes you can pay to upgrade to a larger car (if one is available).
Let me know if you need any more help!
Rob
Parul, I hired a Grand Espace from Avis France for a week back in June.
It was the 2.0 Diesel, and I was very impressed with it.
The 807 isn’t a bad car at all, and as for the Kia well… not sure about that one…
I very much enjoyed my Audi rental in August (see posts 20-23). The cruse control point became rather moot as the wonderful folks at Gatwick upgraded me to an A6, which had everything! Thanks!
I was wondering if AVIS has plans to keep the A4 in the select seried fleet when the new model comes out next spring?
Great to hear back from you Phil. Glad you had a good trip.
It is a bit early to say yet but we would love to keep the A4 in the Select Series. If we are successful in retaining the A4 it is likely that we will be getting some of he new model as well.
Rob
I am looking forward to the new A4, (saw it at Frankfurt) so I really hope you get them.
Looking at a previous post rob, you mention the 1.9 A4’s are S-line’s and come with Cruse Control while the 2.0 Auto’s are SE’s and come without.
Strange choice in my eyes, as I find Cruise control much more useful in an Auto then a manual.
Are the 206CC’s in your fleet diesels?
Website just says 1.6 without mentioning whether they are Petrol or Diesel…
Hi Robert, firstly, to be clear, the 1.9 is an SE and the 2.0 auto is the S-Line. The SE has cruise control because this is what Audi specified to us. Occasionally Avis will accept certain options that the manufacturer will request, which are normally due to a factory constraint. However, if enough people shout about wanting certain options on our cars then we will certainly look into it… and of course the blog is the perfect place to do this!
I should also note that soon both the SE and S-Line will be 2.0 TDIs. And I am pleased to say that we will be getting the new Audi A4. This is expected to come on to our fleet around April / May.
Finally, your question about Peugeot. Presumably you are referring to the 207CC? They are currently a mix of both fuel types but about 70% are petrol.
Rob
That’s good news that the new A4s will be coming. Thanks for answering my question. I have an A4 booked for May, I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed for a new one.
Will the new A4s still be diesel, and come with sat nav?
Phil
Hi Phil. The Audi A4 will be a 2.0 TDI. Unfortunately, it will no longer include sat nav though. We would love to hear any further thoughts you have on Select Series. We currently asking for feedback on one of our recent blog posts http://www.wetryharder.co.uk/?p=260
wondering if the Audi’s are 4-wheel drive? we are considering renting to drive some more rugged terrain in scotland. we are picking up in glasgow in early january. thank you!
Hi Maria,
The Audi’s are not 4-wheel drive, no.
And you should also be aware that with rental cars, the undercarriage is never covered by the insurance you get.
So you might want to consider that when taking a rental car off road…
Kind regards,
Robert
Hi Maria, unfortunately none of our Audi’s are 4-wheel drive. I should also note that Avis cars are not covered for off-road driving and the damage cover will be void if the is utilised in this way. I am sorry if I am not being very helpful! To be honest having watched Jeremy Clarkson try to take to an X3 off-road on a repeated Top Gear episode I personally have been put off the idea of doing something like this!
Do you plan to offer the Prestige and/or Select Series out of Aberdeen Airport?
Thanks, A.
Hi Ander
Unfortunately there aren’t any plans in the near future to offer Avis Prestige or Select Series cars out of Aberdeen Airport. Select Series cars are available however in Scotland, from Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports.
Avis Prestige cars are available from the following locations:
Heathrow Airport
Gatwick Airport
Manchester Airport
Central Manchester
A delivery and collection service is also available from Leeds/Bradford Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport. All the information you need can be found here –
http://www.avisprestige.com/locations.php
Xavier
I tried to book a select series A4, as per the UK offer adveretised on the AVIS UK web site, but could find no way to do so on the web site, so called an Avis rep, who could book me an A4 for three days from Glasgow, 22-24/2/08,for £130. That’s a big difference from the advertised £24/day. How can I book for your advertised rate?
Hi David, the advertised rate for this is based on a 7-day rental and I would stress that this is a “from” price. An Audi A4 can be booked at Stansted for £167 for the week, which comes out at just under £24 a day. I agree that we can make this clearer on the ad and we’ll double check that all prices are correct.
I currently have an A6 out for rental. The navigation in this car is simply awful. It is a red monochrome screen with a little turn icon in the cluster. There is no map. I had no idea Audi offered such an obsolete navigation in their current vehicles. I would not have got the car if I knew this.
Hi Joe,
I am running an Avis A4 right now, and it does have a proper Sat-Nav system with full mapping etc, although I have to say that like many other ‘built in’ systems I have tried in various cars, I find the portable Tom-Tom better then any of them…
I very much doubt (although I could be proven wrong) that you don’t have full mapping on there, (I am also familiar with the Sat Nav in the A8 that has full mapping) it seems to me you have it on the wrong setting.
Have Avis supplied you with a user Manuel for the GPS? I personally did not get one, and this is very bad on Avis’s behalf as I myself don’t find it very easy to use, and could indeed to with a user Manuel.
Avis – to your attention…
Robert
Hi Joe, Robert is correct, the A4 sat nav should have full mapping on there. However, instructions for using the sat nav should be included in the A4 user manual. This is usually kept within the glove compartment or the boot.
I get the impression, that in both of your experiences the user manual has not been there to be found. Is this the case? If so, we will need to look into this because the user manual can be pretty handy for those customers driving unfamiliar cars!
I want to get an Audi A4 from Heathrow between 28 Feb and 3 March but the car doesn’t come up in the listing. Surely they aren’t all taken already? Please advise! Thanks (a previously very happy customer with the Avis Audi A4)
Jeff, I’m sure Rob can answer this better then I can, but it is very possible that the A4, being part of the limited select series, may well be all booked up for these dates.
There are times when I have seen car groups from the normal fleet booked up, and unavailable on dates I have wanted, so the select series being limited in the number of cars is even more likely to be unavailable.
I assume you don’t want an estate? Because the 2.0 TDI Avant is available for the dates you are looking at.
As is the A6 by the way…
Hi Jeff, Robert is right. Unfortunately the Audi A4 is already sold out for these dates at Heathrow. You could go for the A6 as Robert suggested or you could try the “Large: Full Size” category which are pretty much all Mercedes C Class (although if you’re having a particularly lucky day you may get the BMW 3 Series!).
I cannot find a way to book Audi A4 Estate 2.0 TDI if I pick up from Gatwick and return at Heathrow airport. It appears that if the pick up and return locations are different, booking select series is not possible. Can anyone please confirm if it is possible to book select series with different pick-up and return locations.
You’re right!
In the past I have booked select series cars for pick up at LGW and returned them at LHR, but trying a few different dates now, the online booking system won’t let you do it.
Rob…?
Dear Avis,
I went into make a booking for an Audi A4 for May, and noticed that the image for the A4 automatic has been ‘updated’ to the new model. Does that mean what I think it does
.
Assuming so, will the new models be S-lines or SE’s?
Thanks! Phil.
Hi Rob, thanks for checking. Is there another way of booking this?
Hi Phil,
They must have updates the photo overnight as it was not there yesterday when I made a booking!
I may be wrong, and Rob might know better then I do (well he is an Avis insider after all…) but I actually believe it is the Manuel 1.9 that will be replaced with the new model first, as the Auto will not be available until around September I think.
The good news is the 1.9 will be replaced by a 2.0, as Audi have finally got rid of the horrid 1.9 engine! (Although they are going to come out with a less powerful 2.0 TDI, with 118BHP if I am not mistaken)
As to the spec, the new A4 is only offered in SE spec at the moment (and is very well equipped indeed!) and the S-line is coming out in May-June, so if Avis get any in beforehand I assume they will be SE’s which have a nicer softer ride.
Regards
Robert
Hi MM, hi Robert, yes Select Series can be booked for one ways between locations that offer this product. However, there appears to be a bug preventing this from happening. We are working on fixing this (can’t confirm timelines just yet) so for now I would suggest contacting call centre on 08445 81 81 81.
Rob
I take some of my previous post back!
The new Audi 2.0 TDI Multitronic(AUTO) is here, and available to order!
The photo of the Audi 2.0 TDI seems to have reverted back to the old one…
Hi Rob. OK – today I managed to book the A4 for one ways between Gatwick and Heathrow via the website. The bug must have been solved now. Thanks.
Hi Phil, Robert, sorry for the late reply. I’m not sure how this image snuck on to the website but it has been replaced with the old one. We do not yet have the A4 auto on fleet… as Robert has pointed out, it has only just been made available to order.
I’ve just had a chat with my colleague in Fleet and we are hoping that the new manual A4 will be available from about May and the new auto from about September although nothing is definite yet. As it currently stands, they will all be SEs.
As someone not familar with driving six speed cars, perhaps some advice about how to engage reverse could be useful.
I.e. push down gear stick.
Once I figured that out, great car
Richard
Dear Avis,
Last year I moved to a new company which has an MRA with Avis. I rapidly became a weekly world-wide user of Avis and Avis car rental in both drive yourself and Chauffer drive services. I have been so impressed with the service that you get as a preferred customer; I recently swapped all of my personal rentals from one of your competitors to Avis.
Normally when I rent personally I always opt for a select series as I cannot resist the A4; however I have had two rentals that have not been to my satisfaction.
The first didn’t have a navigation system in it and I wasn’t offered one when renting from Heathrow Airport – the worst thing was that no-one told me I could have received a free unit. (I actually purchased a unit during this trip – to fill in the purpose) and only found out that you should get one on the A4’s on reading this blog.
The second, Birmingham Airport, – the car absolutely stunk of smoke as the user before me had smoked in the vehicle. I did go into to ask them about it but they just said they would note it in their system – the smell was unbearable and I ended up driving straight to a supermarket to get some air freshener. Although the team and BHX have always been 100% focussed on providing a great service this occasion wasn’t so nice and has caused me to put some doubt in Avis changing my vehicles in this situation in future.
Anyway since most people tell you about their experiences on here, I thought I would too.
Cheers,
-Mo.
Hi Richard, Mo, I really appreciate your feedback.
Richard – I’ll pass your feedback on to the training team as an area to look at.
Mo – I appreciate you taking the time to post your feedback. This should not have happened. I’ll pass this on to the relevant teams at Heathrow and Birmingham airport. Also, if you would are able to email your rental agreement number to comments@avis.co.uk, then I can pass on to the Customer Support team who can take a look at your specific rental.
Rob
Hi,
I tried posting this on the feedback/contact us part of the main site but the site seems to be down (just get a webserver error after hitting send – so you might want to check that)
About 3 weeks ago I researched the cost of a Select Series rental on an Audi A4 from 19 Sept 2008 to 11 Oct 2008 (pick-up Heathrow and drop-off London).
The quote was 615 GBP. When I typed in the same dates today to make a booking I noticed that the price has jumped to 817 GBP.
Has the price really changed that much in the past few weeks (30%)? I didn’t see anything about the earlier rate being a limited offer.
I don’t suppose you could still offer a similar rate now for a rental of this length?
Many thanks for any help you can offer.
Stuart
Hi Stuart, unfortunately this rate is no longer availablen due to the limited availability of these cars. The cheapest Audi A4 I can find for these dates is the manual which is available for about £782 if you pay now.
Alternatively, if you were looking to reduce the cost of your rental for a similar size car then you could try the Standard: Large and Standard Large: Plus groups which come out at £614 and £648 respectively (these are pre-pay prices).
Let me know if there is anything more I can do to help.
Rob
I too was looking for a hotel and car for a week in august, found an Audi for £210 from your Mayfair location.
After discussing it with the misuses booked the hotel and came back to the Avis site couple of weeks later and its £481. And that seems to be the price whenever I book it even in a year’s time, so it seems the price has gone up by over twice as much! Not a good deal any more. It’s cheaper through other premier rental companies now.
Hi Suj, thank you for the feedback. £210 would have been a promotional price for a week’s rental on the Audi A4 and available on a limited number of cars. However, I take on board your feedback about the increase in price and, as you note in your comment, it is something which has been pointed out in other comments from other customers. I will discuss this with our pricing team and we’ll take a look at it.
Rob
Hello
last january,i’ve rented an Audi a4 2.0 estate from you for the summ of 351 U.K. pounds.When i tried yesterday to book the same car,for the same days (6) for next September,the price went up almost 67% (587)! How comes?
Hi Yiangos, your feedback is echoed by a number of other comments on the blog. A price increase is not unexpected as we head into our busiest period of the year but we need to ensure we remain competitive and our pricing team is has asked to review the current pricing levels.
Rob
what happened to your Select Series prices? they seem to have gone through the roof! up to few months ago I frequently rented the Audis for a couple of days per month; that was around 60GBP/day. Since recently all I find is an average daily rate of £148…will you make the “good idea” behind the Select Series affordable again?
Hi Isabel, great to hear from you again! We have actually just implemented new pricing for Select Series to make it more competitive. We were concerned about all the commentrary we were gettin on the blog! This new pricing was implemented on Friday. Did you get a quote before then? If so, you should find the pricing more competitive now. If you got your quote after this day then would you be able to let me know what date/time and make/model you were trying to book and we’ll take another look at the pricing for that particular rental type.
Rob
Hi Rob, thanks for your reply. I was just checking again; looking at the last June weekend (3 days). The Audi A4 starts at 315,- compared to a large standard car at 102,-
Hi Isabel, I’m really sorry to keep asking for information but could you let me know what location you got this quote? I should have asked for this the first time as the pricing will vary by location!
Also, if I remember correctly, I believe the last time you visited the blog you were asking about a delivery service. Since then we have launched our Avis Home Delivery Service. You can read about it here: http://wetryharder.co.uk/?p=387. I’d be very interested in your thoughts!
Rob
Hi Rob, the quotes above were obtained for a rental query at Heathrow (Northrop Road). This is my “home” location so I have had Select Series rentals here in the past for only a small premium compared to standard large car group bookings. Congratulations on the launch of Home Delivery Service! I’ll be sure to make use of it in the near future and spread the word with friends and colleagues. Although I noted it excludes airport locations (such as Heathrow); any particular reason?
Hi Isabel, the price changes to Select Series didn’t quite go through when expected but they have been implemented now. Are you finding the prices any better now?
Thank you for the feedback on the Home Delivery Service. I think deliveries for the Heathrow area will probably come from Staines at the moment although I think offering the service from all locations is under consideration. Do you have any feedback on this?
Rob
Hi! I WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD KINDLY ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION: IS IT POSSIBLE RENT A CAR, POSSIBLY FROM YOUR SELECTED RANGE, IN LONDON MAYFAIR WITH DROP OFF AT LUGANO AIRPORT IN SWITZERLAND?
MANY THANKS FOR YOUR REPLY.
Hi Rob. After having successfully enjoyed an Audi A4 last March from the Select Series I have decided to go for the same vehicle again. I therefore have just tried to book an Audi A4 Automatic 2.0 TDI – pick up from Heathrow – but I am getting an instruction to select another car as the Audi A4 is not available. Is it possible that they are all booked already for a rental starting on the 15th of September? Thanks. Anthony.
Hi Antonella,
Unfortunately, we don’t allow cars from the UK to be driven one way into Europe, due to the difficulties in getting them back!!
However, cars can be taken into Europe with our continental cover, but the car must be returned to a UK location.
Hope this helps,
Stephen
Hi Anthony, I’ve had a look and we do have this make/model available at Heathrow for this date. Where did you get this quote? Was it on our avis.co.uk website?
Rob
Hello Rob
I appologise if this came to you 3 times but your site is not working properly.Anyway,what i wanted to say is it feels kinda unfair and i’ll explain.A few weeks ago,i posted a complain about the pricing.Then i got a reply(a few other ppl as well with the same complain)that you’d lower the prices.Eventually
i decided to book a car (Audi A4 avant 2.0) for a week for next September.When i first checked the prices,it was arounf 680 pounds.A few days later(when i booked the car) droped to 587.01 now it is 451 and i made my booking on the 22/05/08 ! You guys should do something about this.I really feel kinda stupid now for paying 137 more for a car i will be needing next September.Also,whenever i try to contact anyone at Avis through your helpline,the phone rings but nobody answers.
Hi Yiangos, I can confirm that we have revised the pricing for Select Series. This is in direct response to the comments, such as yours, which posted on this blog (http://wetryharder.co.uk/?p=417). I’ll be in touch to see if there is anything we can advise in your particular case.
Also, would you be able to advise which telephone number you have been trying to call so I can investigate further?
Rob
Rob,
thank you; I can confirm that prices for the Select Series are (in my humble perception) a lot more reasonable now. telling from the enquiries on this blog, they are very popular, too, so congratulations!
Hi Rob, thanks for replying.I qot my quote from the Avis UK website and was trying to make the booking from the same site. The instruction to select another car due to no availability came after I gave in all my details including credit card details.Hope this helps. Meanwhile I’ll be trying again.
Hi Rob, it’s Anthony once again. Tried to book online but was having problems with website. Is your website still encountering problems?
Hi Anthony, I’ve forwarded the issue regarding the availability of Select Series to our IT Service Desk as there should be cars available. There were some issues with the website last night and this morning but these have been resolved.
To save you repeatedly trying to make the booking, I’ve asked our reservation team to get in touch to make this booking for you.
I apologise for the inconvenience these issues have caused!
Rob
Thanks for that Rob. It has been quite an ordeal so far, so your gesture is appreciated. I look forward to hearing from your colleagues.
Fingers crossed we’ll still be in time to secure the booking.
Hope all returns to normal soon for you.
Anthony
Hi Rob. Just to let you know that I’ve managed to book the car yesterday night through the website, as I had not heard from your colleagues.
Thanks for all your assistance over the past days – we are now looking forward to the holiday!
Anthony
No problem Anthony. I apologise that you had not yet heard from our reservation team. I think that, due to the previous issues on the website, they’ve had a bit of a backlog to go through.
I’m delighted you got your reservation through.
I hope you have a great holiday!
Rob
Hi
I am flying into the UK from Zurich to attend wedding on Thursday 19th or Friday 20th June and leaving Sunday 22nd for a family wedding. Can fly into Birmingham/Manchester/Heathrow or Luton.
Obviously I don’t wish to turn up in a crap model so please can you let me know if you have anything suitable eg a S-Class Mercedes? Im 28 clean full UK license
Thanks
Am thinking of buying an Audi A4 and so made a 60 mile trip from Essex to Gatwick to collect the ‘guaranteed’ model of an A4 manual. Arrived to find only car available was an automatic (a different car group per your booking page). In their view it was a free upgrade but surely the whole point of the select service is that you are guaranteed the model you book? (If I buy an A4 it will be a manual so I don’t want to test drive an automatic, and that’s why I booked the manual option)
They did track one down at Heathrow but would have meant me making an additional 80 mile round trip, in the wrong direction, to swap the cars over. So ended up leaving Gatwick back in my own car having wasted the petrol, dartford tolls and £25 in prepaid airport parking.
Not impressed and currently left with Customer Services to make a goodwill gesture re the parking cost.
Hi Yaseen, your best bet is to either book one of the Audi A4s or A6s on Select Series or try our Fullsize or Premium car categories on our standard fleet. With Select Series you’ll be able to guarantee the make/model. However, of the options you’ve provided only Heathrow will have these available. Alternatively, the Fullsize or Premium categories are available at all of the airports. Based on the current fleet mix you will most probably get a C-Class Mercedes if you book the Fullsize car category or a Mercedes E-Class if you book the Premium car category (however, I should note that this is subject to change as we bring in new vehicles on fleet).
Alternatively you could try our Avis Prestige range at http://www.avisprestige.com. From near you can take your pick from Aston Martins, Porsches, etc. The choice is yours although these are a bit more pricey!
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Rob
Hi Rob,
Many Thanks for your advice- had a look at the prestige but it states 30+ for anything decent (I’m 28 with a clean license and coming up to 3 years NCB) so its a shame.
Just booked my flights so definately need to hire something- flying into Luton on Thursday 18th evening and leaving from Luton on sunday 22nd evening.
A E class with sat nav in black (preferably) or if not silver/navy would do- but don’t want to risk the ‘or similar’ turning out to be a volvo or so on so would appreciate if you could drop me an email and let me know for certain?
Thanks
Yaseen
I completely agree Andy. It’s a promise we’re very proud and we’re very committed to keep our promises so it is very disappointing when we don’t live up to them. There are rare occasions when we have to offer an upgrade because the car isn’t available, particularly when our fleet is tight and cars are coming back later than expected or are heading in various directions on one-way rentals. However, we will look into how we can do better here.
In the meantime I will chase up with our Customer Support team to ensure they are on top of your case. Once again I apologise for the inconvenience.
Rob
No problem Yaseen. I’ll drop you an email to answer these questions.
Rob
Rob
Thanks for your reply and for being gracious in acknowledging the incovenience and the fact that I had not received the intended level of service.
I’ve heard back from Customer Services and they have arranged to refund my prepaid car hire and the £25 airport parking which is appreciated. This was handled quite efficiently so credit where credit is due on that front.
Am still keen to hire an Audi A4 – any tips on how to ensure that I get the required manual transmission next time (apart from phoning the rental location before I set off)?
Thanks
Andy
Hi Andy, to be honest there is no real tip I can give because it should not have happened in the first place! We have now put into place new “Select Series champions” in place at all of our Select Series location as an extra measure to monitor our Select Series cars to prevent this from happening.
Rob
Hi,
We ae looking to rent a Audi A4 2.0 automatic from your select series at LHR. Our dates are September 18th to October 5th 2008.
We have a few qestions:
a) Would the A4 be the “new shape”?
b) Is the A4 a S-Line model?
c) We require Sat-Nav. Does the A4 come with it? Or do we have to pay extra for Avis GPS?
d) We are going to Europe for 7 days. How much is the “continental cover”?
Thanks.
Sorry I forgot to say the Audi is the 2.0 TDI automatic model.
Hi William, there are some of the new shape A4s on fleet but it will be over a period of months before they replace all of the previous shape A4s come on our fleet. In the short-term there will be no way of guaranteeing a new A4 shape.
There is a mixture of the S-line and the SE within this category. Most of the previous shape are S-Lines while the new shape A4 are the SE. As a standard the A4 does not come with GPS (Audi have provided us with some A4s with in-built GPS but there is no way to guarantee one of these and it is a bit of bonus to get one!)
The cost of Continental Cover for 7 days is £88.13.
Let me know if you need anything else.
Rob
Hello,
I’m looking to rent a premium/luxury car for the last week of October, from the Mayfair office. I’m ideally after an E-class, but I see that other models in the range are Volvo S80 or Renault Vel Satis, neither of which I want. What are the chances that I would end up with something other than the E-class?
I could go for the A6 from the Select series, but would prefer the Merc.
Many thanks.
Hi David, you’ve actually succeeded in spotting a glitch on our website! We don’t have the Velsatis and the S80 in this category so, assuming we don’t get any new models on the fleet over the next couple of months, I’d say your chances of getting an E-Class are very high. However, I must advise you that, as it is not a Select Series car, it is not guaranteed.
I hope this helps (and I’ll make sure our website gets updated!).
Rob
Thanks Rob, that’s useful.
Can you tell me what other cars are in the same category as the E-class?
No problem. At the moment it is only the E-Class. While I am hesitant to say you can absolutely bank on getting an E-Class (because between now and then we may introduce new cars to the category), I’d say there is a good chance you will!
Rob
I don’t believe there are any other cars available in E class group, are there Rob?
Robert
Hi Robert, see comment above (I hadn’t approved my own response before you responded so you wouldn’t have seen what my reply was!).
Rob
Hi Avis
Just a couple of queury’s.
First things first, glad to see you are doing well with the select series. I personally believe that this was the best idea any rental company could have come up with and having taken of so well, credit to you guys…
Now for the other bits, i had a bit of a bad experience with a rental, it was a A4 2.0 TDI s line rented from the manchester location, i mean picking it up and the overall service seemed to be average, the car was spot on, i was on vacation for 2 days so was away. Had a really good time, car was fab, cut a long story short i went to give the car back, now there was a queue so the lady behind the counter signed it off and asked if everything was ok and no damage, i did advise at the time to go up and inspect it she laughed and said i trust you it should be fine, so give me a confirmation i signed it and off i went. 2 months later i got a letter from a solicitor saying there was severe damage to the front tyre and that if i dont pay up, something daft like £200 Avis would take me to court, you can imagine my reaction, anger and felt how could a company like this try to fraud you for your honesty, when i spoke to the airport they were not helpful at all, the only people were helpful was there solicitors, and that was when i told them i have got in contact with my solicitor and i will take it till the very end. What got to me was if the car was inspected when i returned it or the next day we have something called communication, either telephone, letter to advise ‘if’ there was any damage, how would a Avis Preferred customer react to this? im sorry but this sort of service is unacceptable, you accept this sort of un professionalism from a back street rental company. The reason why i have had to stress this out over a blog is because Avis failed to admit they were in the wrong and would’nt even apologise, just a few days later called me to say discard the letter it was sent in error.
Is this what the standards of a well known rental company are coming to, i am startingto lose faith unless reinstated?
I do wish to rent from yourselves again, as the convenience of the A4 helps and looks the part when travelling from client to client, would it be possible to confirm if i was to rent in Nov (mid or end) if the A4 S lines are the new shape, currently i drive a 07 plate S line which is a company car so i dont wish to pay for the old shape, we change our company fleet march 09 so if it could be confirmed that the new shape is available (possibly speaking to manc aiport) to confirm this.
I mean we have used yourselves for a number of years, for business and personal but was quite thrown back just to see how Avis look after clients, co-orperarive clients of Avis preferred, surely all customers should be treated to what they pay for
Please could this be looked into, it would be very much appreciated, any other details i.e. contact numbers etc can be provided for further investigation…as Avis say ‘we try harder’ lets see how hard they will try to keep ther name, promise and customer satisfaction
Thanks in advance
Mo
Hi Mo,
I’m sorry to hear of your experience. Would you be able to send me details of your rental (including rental agreement number) to comments@avis.co.uk and I will take a look into this for you.
Rob is currently looking into your question about Audis and will respond to you when he has an answer.
Stephen
Sounds like you had a horrible experience Mo, but then it also sounds like Avis admitted it was an error, and forgot about the whole thing.
I’m sure Rob will be along soon, and look into the whole thing for you.
As to your question about renting an A4 in November, I doubt they will be able to guarantee a new shape as they are currently using both until all the old shapes are gone, but Rob will be able to answer that one better then me…
In any case, even if you do get a new shape A4, it won’t be an S-Line, it would be an SE, and it won’t come with SAT-NAV.
I am driving one myself, and it is a very nice car…
Cheers
Robert
Hi Mo, I too would like to apologise for your experience and I know that Stephen is looking in it.
With regards to your question about the S-Line, well Robert has pretty much answered it spot on!! The only thing I can add is to say that there is currently no plans to bring on the new shape S-Line. So, in the short-term, all the new shape A4s that we introduce to the fleet will be SEs.
Rob
Hi Stephen
I appreciate you taking the time out and to look into this further, an email was sent to the address given but i have not had a response…are you currently looking into this, i did stress this was some time ago but only made you aware now as Avis did not admit fault and customer services were not willing to do anything, just wanted to make sure that standard of service will not be recieved.
Look Forward to your response and action
Thanks
Hi Mo, Stephen is on holiday but I have spoken to my colleague you should’ve received an email from us to help resolve the situation. Let me know if you need anything else.
Rob
Rob
Many thanks for the kind swift response. Look forward to hearing from customer services for a reolution
Regards
hi all,
I wanted to put forward an idea: could you offer vouchers for sale, that can be given to friends/ family as a gift?
I have a close friend who was very impressed by my recent A6 Select Series rental. I would like to give him a voucher for a weekend rental for the A6.
Is that something you could accommodate?
thanks again,
Isabel
Hi Isabel, it’s great to hear from you! Unfortunately, we don’t have anything like this currently available. That being said, I think it’s a great idea and I’ll have a look into how we could make something like that work.
Rob
That sounds like a great gift, I think I will do the same for my son’s birthday present, please let me know too.
Thanks for the feedback Used Audi. I’m still looking into it. These things are not always as easy to implement as you first think! But I think it’s a a great idea and I will keep you updated on how I progress.
Rob
what is the required minimum age to hire the audi a4 or a6, is it 23?
Hi i was wandering if i can hire the select series Audi A6. I am 23 years old and have held my license for approx 4 yrs and have got 5 Penalty Points on my license. The points were for driving without due car and attention.
Also if i am eligible to hire the Audi A6 select series, i intend to hire to from Manchester Airport and wish to know the spec of the car.
Hi F.M, this should be fine (and in the majority of occasions it will be) although it is ultimately left to the manager’s discretion.
Let me know if you need any more info.
Rob
Hi Abdul, if you are looking to rent the A4 or A6 from our Select Series in the UK then 23 will be fine. However, there is Young Driver Surcharge for drivers under 25. This costs £12.93 per day.
Let me know if you need any more info!
Rob
Hi,
I am looking to rent an Audi A4 from your select series at Heathrow from 20th November to 24th November but have a few questions:
1. Are both the automatic and manual versions on offer the “new shape” and what are the specs of the cars?
Would be grateful for a quick and helpful reply.
Regards
Hi R.N,
All of the manual A4’s are the NEW shape. The majority are SE trim, with some S-Line trims. In terms of specs for the SE, please find below some of the features on offer:
4-spoke leather steering wheel
Driver’s Information System (DIS)
Electric front and rear windows
Electromechanical parking brake
Front and rear floor mats
Intelligent key
Micrometallic inlays
Rear armrest
Exterior mirrors
Auto-dimming rear view mirror Aluminium Hologram Inlays Deluxe 3-zone climate control System
2 x 12V power sockets
Audi Concert Radio. Single CD with MP3 compatibility, colour centre console screen, SD memory card reader and AUX-IN socket in centre console
Audi sound system speaker package, 10 speakers including subwoofer (180 Watts)
The automatic A4’s are a mixture of the old and new shape and there’s no guarantee whether you will the new shape.
If you really want to drive the new shape A4, I would suggest that you book a manual model!
Hope this helps,
Stephen
Hi Stephen,
Thanks for your quick reply, its much appreciated.
Regards
Hello,
I need to book a car as soon as possible but have no credit card at the moment because it would take 5 working days.
Therefore, I was wondering if it would be okay to get someone else to pay with their card and then i take them with me when collecting the car?
Could you please let me know as soon as possible.
Many thanks
Hi Reyhan,
Which office are you looking to rent from? Generally most offices will let you do this provided that the person whose credit card is used to pay for the rental is present at time of pick up. As they had the credit card the rental would have to be in their name (i.e. main driver) and then the office would put yourself on as an additional driver (£23.50 extra charge. This means as well that the person paying would also require their drivers license on the day.
If you let me know which office you are looking at renting from then I can speak to them directly to ensure you wouldn’t have any problems.
Chris
Hi Chris,
Thanks for clearing that up for me. I will be using either London Mayfair or LHR, its because i only have a debit card and no credit card at the moment so thought best to ask.
Once again thanks for your time!
Hi – a follow-up question to comment 141 – are the estates the new model?
Thanks!
Hi Phil,
Currently, the estates are a mixture of the old and new models. However, in 2009, as our cars are replaced, the percentage of new models will increase.
Hope this helps,
Stephen
Hi,
I’m considering an A4 automatic after having rented one out on two occasions in 2008. Is there a reason why it does not appear on the list for an April rental? I will picking up from Heathrow.
thanks.
Anthony
Hi Anthony,
Unfortunately, the Audi A4 saloon (automatic) is being discontinued by Avis UK. There are currently a few left on fleet but these will have gone by April. We still have the A4 Avant estate available and this can be booked as usual through the website.
Stephen
Hi Stephen,
What a shame the A4 is being discontinued, I thought it was really popular? Or I am wrong?
Is anything going to replace it?
Hi Stephen.
Thanks for your reply. Pity about the A4 (automatic). It was a great model.
At this stage do you have any information as to whether any other makes are being included in the Select Series range?
Thanks.
Anthony
Hi Robert/Anthony,
It’s great to hear that the Audi A4 automatic had so many fans. Unfortunately, our contract on this model has come to an end but we are continuing with the A4 manual. We’re also introducing the BMW 3 and 5 series autos this months for a trail period and sourcing new makes and models for our Select Series range.
Hopefully, the new fleet will please you as much as previous models.
Stephen
Hi Stephen,
The new Select range seems interesting – i will give it some time before making my booking for our April holiday.
Perhaps new additions will be on by then…hopefully at a reasonable price:)
Any plans of getting in Alfas, like the 159 V6?
Anthony
Hi Stephen,
While I was disappointed to hear the Auto A4 was being discontinued, I am thrilled you are bringing back the 3 series.
You say its for a trial period but you already had some on fleet (I drove one for a while) last year…
Any info as to what model it will be? 320d as last time? M-sport spec?
I am also excited about you introducing the 5 series (even if the current model is being replaced soon…) is this going to replace the A6?
Regards,
Robert
Hi Anthony,
Unfortunately, we can’t discuss ongoing negotiations with the manufacturers but at this moment, we can’t rule anything out for 2009.
I’m sorry I can’t give more information but when we know, we’ll let you know right here on the blog.
Stephen
Hi Robert,
The BMW 3 series are a mixture of models but mostly the 320d M Sport.
Glad you’re excited about the 5 series as well. They are replacing the A6 as these will be discontinued through the year. However, as we’ve said, the BMW’s are only on for a trial period at the moment.
Stephen
Hi Stephen
That’s perfectly understandable.
I look forward to developments.
Thank you
Anthony
Hi Rob,
Welcome back!
Have the new cars for the Select Series which were going to be included as of January been introduced yet as they do not appear on the website? (See 152).
I wonder whether you can help with another query. I have been regularly booking with AVIS in the UK for some years now and since 2008 I have been opting for the Select Series…very satisfactorily!
About a month I booked and obviously paid for an A4 to collect end of next week. From an email i have just received it results that if I were to book today the price is down by some GBP 50.Is this appropriatet hat a customer who is loyal and pays up well in advance is penalised?
Hope you can help.
Regards,
Anthony
Hi Anthony, thanks for the welcome back!
Yes we have the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series on the Select Series now although there is a limited supply of the 5 Series so I would suggest booking well in advance if you want to try one.
I agree with your point on pricing. We would always recommend booking in advance on a pre-pay rate for the best price so in general you should have expected to get the best price. I can only assume that in this case the price has decreased due to an unexpected change in supply/demand. Without the dates and location it is difficult to say for sure but if you are able to send me some info to comments@avis.co.uk I can take a look for you.
As for loyalty, I am in agreement with you – we want to be rewarding and retaining our loyal customers. It is something we have been looking at for some time now, it’s just tough in the current climate as it is a big project and resource is tight!
Rob
Hi Rob,
Seems to be more of a shortage with the 320d\’s rather than the 520d\’s…
I have just tried 15! Different dated between May and October and the only week I was offered the 3 series was first week of May…
On all the other dates I tried, it offered me nothing in that group just A4 1.9 Man (I thought they were all the new shape now, and 2L rather than 1.9?)
The 520 on the other hand was available on all the dates I tried alongside the A6.
I assume that since it is a Select series car that means that if it is showing availability, the car is indeed available for those dates…
Regards,
Robert
Hi Robert, ah good spot! The reason for that is that the 3 Series has been available on Select Series on a trial basis. That is why you can’t find the 3 Series for dates after May. I believe we are about to extend these dates though so you should find availability increase! You should find that, in the shorter term, the 3 Series is more available than the 5 Series.
As for the Audi A4, they are all new shape. However, there are still a small number of 1.9s which we are waiting to take off the fleet. Until they are de-fleeted we will continue to promote the car as a 1.9 (just so that the customer won’t feel disappointed if they get a 1.9 – and if they get a 2.0l it will be seen as a bonus!). However, the likelihood is if you book the 1.9 Audi, you’ll get a 2.0l.
Rob
Thanks Rob,
But if they are all the new shape then they must be 2.0L’s, unless you mean there are still a few of the old shape 1.9’s lying about…?
Robert
Sorry, Robert, I was under the impression that they were all the new shape. There are definitely a very small number of the 1.9 so, if the new shape is not available as 1.9, then I can only assume these are the old shape. However, they are a very small number and these will soon be de-fleeted. So the probability is that, any customer who books this Select Series model, will receive the new shape 2.0l A4.
Rob
Hi, i just wanted to know hat are the old Audi’s still on the fleet because i really like the A6 2.0 TDI S line?
Rob (or someone else from Avis) will correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe the A6’s have now been replaced with the 520d.
You might think you like the A6 but try the 5 series you will not be disappointed…
I think i’ve seen the 5 series but it’s not sport. It’s normal S.E model and will they be getting any sports models at Birmingham Airport branch? ? ?
Hi Nazam, Robert, sorry for the late reply – I was just waiting for some guidance from our fleet team on this (I’m still trying to catch up on everything since I’ve been away).
As Robert mentioned, we no longer have the Audi A6 available on the Select Series. This was replaced by the BMW 5 Series. Although, you may be disappointed with the absence of the A6, like Robert, we think BMW represents a great addition to the Select Series range!
Rob
Yes i understand where your coming from abou the 5 series beeing replaced but, my question was that will you be getting any 5 series sports rather then S.E models.
Sorry Nazam. I misunderstood. There is so much discussion on this thread about the Audi A4 so I thought you meant the A4 SE! At the moment, there are no plans to bring on the 5 Series Sport. But I welcome your feedback though. I’m actually in the process of putting together a blog post for general fleet feedback. I’ll direct you to it when it is posted so you comment with any further feedback.
Rob
I’m looking to book select series Audi A4 Avant, pickup @ Heathrow. Some questions:
1.) What trim level those cars belong to?
2.) Are they automatics?
3.) What options do they have (e.g. sunroof, leather)?
4.) Which type of diesel engine do they have (i.e. the 140ps version or the 170ps version)?
5.) Do they have satnav? If not how can I reserve satnav (cos I don’t see the option on the booking page)?
TIA
I am trying to book an Audi A4 Saloon (manual)Select Series vehiclefrom Manchester Airport for 2 weeks in Aug/Sept 09.
We live in the USA and regularly travel to the UK for business/leisure (my husband also uses Avis in the US for all his business rentals)In the past few years we have had no problem using the US Avis site (.com)to book an Audi A4 Saloon but when trying to make the latest booking all models apart from Golf, Passat and Audi A4 Estate are showing as sold out thru the end of 2009…we were also looking to rent an Audi A4 in December 2009.
However, looking on the UK Avis site A4 Saloon models are freely available for booking for our dates out of Manchester.
As US residents we wish to book thru the US site (with our Wizard linked insurance preferences and USD charges etc)but Avis seems to have limited our choice of vehicles.
We have always had great service from the Manchester staff and would prefer to remain with Avis.
Thanks for any assistance you can offer with this booking problem
I want to reserve Select Series (Audi A4)for pick up/return from Heathrow in September but noticed that there is nothing available. Why is there nothing available from Heathrow and will this change?
@ Y Bell, just let you know that I’ve picked this up with the Select Series Product Manager who is picking this up.
@ mm, thank you for pointing this out. This should now be resolved but let me know if have any more problems!
Rob
Rob – thanks for your efforts, I’ll keep checking the US Avis site and hope for changes in the availability of the Select Series A4 Saloon.
Y Bell
Hi, i just wanted to know to know that i have BMW 320D M sport booked for a weekend in October 09, can i change this to have it in July 09?
After unsuccessfully trying all weekend (from Perth, Western Australia) to book an Audi A4 Avant 2.0 from Heathrow and returning it there (for unexplained quoted “technical difficulties” with your site), I managed tonight to book with a pick-up from Mayfair: Now I find that, unlike the website for Heathrow, the Mayfair site doesn’t allow a GPS to be ordered. Does this mean the vehicle comes already with GPS, or can I still get a GPS at Mayfair? I just had to do the booking as we are leaving for London on 1 July and was worried I might not get the vehicle of choice.
Hi Nasam, would you be able to email your reservation number to comments@avis.co.uk and we’ll take a look at this for you.
Rob
Hi B Parkin, apologies that you had a problem with the website.
The A4 Avant does not have in-built GPS. GPS is available at our Mayfair rental office, although there is limited availability which is why this request has been switched off the website.
If you could email me your reservation number to comments@avis.co.uk, I can see there is one available to hold aside for you.
Rob
Question:
I am interested in renting the “Select series: Volkswagen Golf” from the 7th August – 12th August. Pickup from Heathrow Airport and return at St. Pancras Train Station. The Pay Now price does NOT list a “One Way Fee”. Is this accurate? Does this mean that there will be no “One Way Fee” for my booking? [In contrast, choosing the medium compact vehicle type lists a "one way fee" under the Pay Now section, thus the confusion].
Are one ways to non-select places still disallowed and is this a bug? Or is the one way fee not applicable in this instance?
cheers,
brendan
Yes you are correct Brendan, one-ways for Select Series cars to non-Select locations is disallowed! Good spot. I’ll flag this up with our pricing team.
Rob
Hi folks,
Don’t have a credit card, or a debit card, but the wife does. She can’t drive anymore due to diabetes however.
So, Canary Islands in Sept. What do I do??? I’ve been trying all day, and can see me having to cancel a holiday as we need transport due to her health issues, I suggested a donkey. I was shouted at lots….
Hi,
2 points. Firstly I have two bookings for an SUV from Vancouver in July as on first booking I forgot to include my AVIS preferred card number. But there is no facility to cancel the first booking, and the second booking does not seem to show up on in my online account. Should I call Vancouver to double check or do you think they will have picked up the double booking?
Thanks,
Janno
Hi Lee,
Ha ha don’t worry the donkey won’t be needed. I’ve double checked with the airport locations who have all confirmed that there will be no problem. Your wife will have to be the “main driver” on the contract as she has the credit card. They will add yourself on as an additional driver (9.04€ per day up to a max of 90.40€) and then you will be able to do all the driving.
I hope that helps
Chris
Hi Janno,
Would you be able to email to us your reservation numbers to comments@avis.co.uk and we’ll take a look at the status of your reservations for you?
Rob
Hi Lee,
Yes I know, she won’t actually do any of the driving and will in effect renounce the right to drive, she will appoint you as the “main driver.”
Thanks
Chris
it is great that you have taken audi onto your fleet but it would be nice to have them more spread out over the UK as im in the north of Scotland and the nearest one for me is Glasgow.
Hi Alan, thanks for the feedback. The restrictions is largely down to the logistics of managing a “make/model guarantee” promise. There are no plans to extend the availability to other locations at the moment but it has been discussed before so never say never. Of course we will update on this blog if the situation ever changes.
Rob
I cannot see Audi A4 Avant being offered at London Heathrow Airport. Is this right or there’s something wrong with the website?
Hi mm, what dates are you looking at? I know there is limited available on the A4 Avant at the moment so this may be the reason.
Rob
From 15-22 September 09.
Hi mm,
Unfortunately, this is correct then. The A4 Avant is not appearing at Heathrow Apt for those dates because we have limited supply and it is currently sold out for these dates.
Let me know if there is anything else we can do to help.
Rob
Hi,
My husband is thinking of renting the Audi A4 for a week in Sept and we would like to know if the gps sat nav is integrated in this car.
Could you pls let me know.
Jess
Hi Jess, the Audi A4 does not include in-built sat nav.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Rob
Hi, i’m a regular customer of Avis i usually hire the select series VW Golf.
Now that new shape Golf has come out can you please let me know what spec will they stock at Birmingham Airport e.g. 1.6SE, 1.9TDI or 2.0TDI GT Sport?
Hi Naz,
We do have the new VW Golf on order, but due to a delay in manufacturing we wont be getting them on fleet until November. But when we do get them we will be publishing a blog post on this site with the details.
If you have any other questions or feedback please let me know.
Vicki
I for one would also like to see an Audi A4 available as a hire car. Speaking of Audis, I do believe the Q7 performed relatively well in the online crash tests. I would therefore like the Q7 to also be available on Avis hire purchase.
I am featured on the BBC website and anxious to bring my weblinks to everyone’s attention. Simply visit Google and search the web for Jeremy Keller, or Jeremy Keller BBC, to access the details.
Hi,
I have booked an audi A4 1.9tdi select series from birmingham airport in october. Please can you tell me what spec it is and if it has intergrated sat nav.
Thanks
Mohammed
Hi Mohammed
Our Audis A4’s are equipped with the ‘SE Model’ and some of these features are 4-spoke leather multi-function, steering wheel, Auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Aluminium Hologram inlays, Colour Driver’s Information System (DIS), Deluxe 3-zone climate control with separate. System includes, air-conditioning controls in the rear centre, console for rear passenger compartment, Front centre armrest including 12V, Interior chrome package but does not include an integrated Satellite Navigation System
Andy
Hi
Are there any plans to bring the select series to Cardiff Airport after all it is in the capital of Wales if not is there an option the getter better cars at better deals.
Cheers
Phil
Hi Paul, thanks for the feedback. At the moment we’re quite focused about where we offer Select Series as managing a “make/model guarantee promise” is very challenging (a lot more so than one might think!) and restricting it to the very top locations makes it easier for us to ensure we can fulfil this promise.
However, we are reviewing this on an ongoing base and if there is an opportunity to expand the spread of this fleet then we will do it!
Rob
Hi,
I am planning to book the VW Golf or Audi A4 from your select series at LHR, could you tell me which Audi A4 will I get? Will it be 1.9 tdi or 2.0 tdi, Also what spec are they SE or S Line? Anyway of confirming a S Line. Finally The VW Golf, do you offer the 2.0 TDi or will it be the 1.9 TDi?
Thanks
Parm
Hi Parm, all the A4s are 2.0 TDi SE. With the Golf they are predominantly 1.9 and 2.0 TDis (although there are also some 1.6 FSIs).
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Rob
Dear Rob,
Its good to see after all of the times I have checked this blog, your still getting back to customers. I thought it would be good to tell you a little about my car rental experience with AVIS in the UK.
Via my company I have an MRA with AVIS in Denmark, If you were to access my previous rents (globally) you will find that I have been very happy with my recent rentals which have generally consisted of getting an A3/A4 at some very good rates. However whenever I come over to the UK, I simply cannot justify using AVIS anymore as the rates no longer tie in with the competiveness of your competitors’ (Namely the one with the green signage) and the rental policy is annoying to say the least.
Birmingham Airport used to be a select series location, over the last few months I have tried to make reservations picking up at Heathrow and returning to Birmingham, unfortunately your automatic reservation system always comes up with errors saying that the booking cannot be processed at this time and it has been like this for the last six months. What really annoys me is that whenever I walk past the AVIS car park I see many A4’s in the car park but they never ever seem to be available for rent.
Since December last year I have stopped using Avis in the UK, namely because I can get C Class Mercedes which looks very AMG like and are fully equipped for close to half the price of what I could get an A4 at with Avis. The advantage of using your competitors is that they always let me pick up at LHR and drop off at BHX.
I’m popping back home for a brief weekend at the end of this month and have decided to rent with AVIS one last time as I do really enjoy the speed of which I can rent a car at Heathrow – by utilising the preferred service, however I have been restricted to using a VW Passat, which has been booked under a group H using AVIS Denmark – who seem to take a bit more care of me then your call centre in the UK whom sound like they only care about getting their bonuses!
Its quite sad for me to write that based on past experiences your simply not trying hard enough and from my experience you would rather let your loyal customers go elsewhere.
I don’t get to check this forum daily but if you would like to contact me please feel free to do so via email.
Thanks for your time,
-Mo.
Hi,
The A4 2.0 TDI now come in 4(!) different engine options (crazy I know…).
2.0 TDI 120
2.0 TDIe 136
2.0 TDI 140
2.0 TDI 170
What model would the current select series A4 be?
I’m guessing it’s the 120 or 140, but can you confirm please?
Thanks,
Robert
I’m told that they are all the 143!
Rob
Hi Mo, great to hear from you again!
I appreciate you taking the time again to post all of your feedback. I’ll drop you an email as you suggest. It would be good to get a better understanding of your issues and concerns.
Rob
Cheers Rob,
Just what I wanted to hear!
Regards,
Robert
Cheers Rob,
I do look forward to hearing from you. Just for your info I will be placing the final touches to my trip tomorrow evening so would appreciate if you could get in touch before then.
Hi,
I am debating between the A4 Avant and the 5-Series.
Previous blogs indicate that the A4 Avants are S.E. versions. Do they come with cruise control?
With the 5-series, my question is whether it’s the sports version or not and whether you have taken up the option of run flat types, both of which I’ve read negative views on.
Have a long motorway journey – but then with lots of lumpy country roads at the other end!
Thanks.
Can’t answer regarding the A4, but I’m pretty sure they no longer offer the Avant on the fleet…
Someone from Avis will confirm that I’m sure.
In regards to the 5 series, they have always come with run flats as have the 3 series though some customers have chosen to replace them after purchase; this is not an option while ordering the car.
There is a major advantage with the run flat tyres if you happen to have a ‘blow out’, and they could actually save your life.
I know for sure that the 5 series Avis offer are SE’s not M-Sport so I’m sure you will be happy with that.
Regards,
Robert
Hi, i just wanted to know what spec will Avis take out on their select series Golf Fleet e.g 1.6 1.9tdi or 2.0 GTD sport
Hi,
I need to book a car for end of November and wanted a BMW.
However, it says you have to be 25 but i won’t be 25 till couple of weeks after i need the booking.
Is there no way at all i can get a BMW in that period? (im guessing not but thought i’d ask just incase).
Regards
Hi Paul,
The A4 Avants that we currently have on our fleet have are specked to the ‘SE’ level. This includes audio and communication Audi Concert radio. Single CD with MP3 compatibility, colour centre console screen, AUX-IN socket in centre console Audi sound system speaker package. Interior equipment, 4-spoke leather multi-function, steering wheel, Auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Colour Driver’s Information System (DIS) Deluxe 3-zone climate control with separate air distribution and digital display for driver and front passenger.
In regards to the BMW’s on our fleet the majority have run flat tyres on.
Andy
Hi Raj,
I’m afraid that for the BMWs we don’t accept drivers under the age of 25.
Apologies!
Chris
Hi I have just booked a golf on the select, 3rd-5th Nov. this is the 1st time i am using this service. can you tell me what golfs they stock at LHR? are they MK5 or Mk6 and what engines to they have? Great service in offering makes and models.
Hi Matthew,
Thanks for your interest in our Select Series. We are currently supplying Mk5 Golf’s on our fleet, with the 1.9TDi 105PS engine.
If you have any other questions let me know.
Andy
Am I right in thinking if I book an A6 I will recieve GPS built in and if it is not I will receive one free of charge?
Hi Amelia,
Thanks for your comment.
In the UK we currently do not have any Audi A6’s on fleet. Plus the Audi A4’s we have do not have GPS built in, so you will have to purchase this separately.
I hope this answers your question. If you have any other questions or comments please let me know.
Vicki
I am sorry to disturb you again however I am confused – I am sure when I enquired about an Audi A6 at Heathrow airport they had them at their station. Am I mistaken?
With regards to teh GPS thank you for clarifying that.
Hi Amelia,
I have just double checked and I’m afraid we no longer have any Audi A6’s on fleet.
We do have Audi A4’s and BMW 3&5 series bookable at Heathrow if they are of any interest to you.
I apologise if someone had said we still have A6’s on fleet, I am guessing it was a genuine mistake and they meant to A4. Sorry for any confusion this has caused.
If you have any other questions please let me know.
Vicki
A FRIEND OF MINE HIRED A CAR FROM AVIS RENT A CAR IN TAUNTON, UK AND AS HE DID NOT HAVE A BANK ACCOUNT THEY DID IT WITH MY BANK DETAILS AND SAID THAT UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WOULD ANY MONEY BE TAKEN FROM MY ACCOUNT FOR ANYTHING HE OWED. THEY HAD TOLD ME THIS THREE TIMES, BUT IN SEPTEMBER 2009 THEY ‘STOLE’ £1600 FROM MY ACCOUNT AND NOW BECAUSE OF THEM I HAVE CONSIDERABLE BANK CHARGES. I WILL BE TAKING AVIS TO COURT OVER THIS AND WOULD LIKE TO SAY, DO NOT TRUST ANYTHING THEY SAY. THEY ARE THEIVES. THEY WILL STEAL MONEY FROM YOU. DO NOT GIVE YOUR BANK DETAILS FOR ANYBODY ELSE BECAUSE THEY ARE LIARS.
Hi Jon,
I am sorry to hear about your frustrations. If you email your rental agreement number to comments@avis.co.uk I will look into these charges for you and then someone from customer services will get back to you.
Vicki
HI,
Looking at hiring a Golf from LHR this coming week. Is there any way to guarantee a diesel?
Thanks
Hi George,
Unfortunately at the moment we are unable to guarantee a diesel or petrol engine. If you express a preference to the office they will certainly try their best to provide one but it cannot be guaranteed. From the 1st December however we have a new exclusive group which will only contain low emission diesel cars. Due to delivery dates etc though they are only available for pick up from the 1st onwards!
I hope that helps
Chris
i want to hire a audi a6 for a wedding for 15 days and i am 20 years old, so is it possible for me two hire a audi, and how do i do it as this is going to be my first time.
Hi Hamo,
I’m afraid that in the UK our minimum age to rent is 23 years old so unfortunately you would be unable to rent.
Apologies
Chris
Hi chris
one question what if I get someone that is 23 to hire the Audi a6 and then put myself as a second driver.
Also i don’t mind paying extra as I need it for a wedding.
Thanks
Hamo
Hi Hamo,
I’m afraid that at 20 you will be unable to drive at all. To rent the min age is 23 and that unfortunately applies to all drivers, whether they are the main driver or an additional one.
Chris
Hi,
I want to hire either an audi a4 or bmw 3series from gatwick for a week in feb. Are all the audi a4s the new shape ones there (as is the case at heathrow) and just to confirm the bmw 3series are the m sport spec?
Thanks
Rey
Hi Rey
The Audis are a mix of both the new shape and the older models. All BMWs currently on Fleet are the M Sport models. The 2010 acquisitions will consist of the new shape and the M Sport models, respectively.
I hope this helps. If you have any other questions please let me know.
Harleen
Hi Rey,
I don’t work for Avis but can probably answer your question…
All the A4’s are the new shape (if you can call a car that came out in 2008 new…).
The BMW’s are a mixture of 318’s and 320’s and not all M Sport.
It’s a mixture of SE’s and M Sport’s.
3 series is brilliant to drive, highly recommends.
Regards,
Robert
Hi Harleen,
I think my comment was actually posted before yours (but was awaiting moderation) so thanks for placing it after yours and making me look like a right idiot …
I am confused however…
you say the A4’s are a mixture of old and new yet it has been at least 6 months since I’ve seen an old shape and I probably visit the LHR branch once a week on avarge.
Always many A4’s in the parking lot, never any old shape.
So apologies Rey for the wrong advice.
In regards to the BM’s I am also a little confused as I had an SE just last month, and when I last picked up a car at LHR last week there were BMW 3 series in the parking bays, 2 SE’s and 2 M Sport, but your saying there are no SE’s on the fleet anymore…?
In regards to the 2010 models when can we expect them on the fleet?
Thanks,
Robert
Hi,
Thanks for the replies to both. No worries Robert but yes maybe i should have said newER models (in regards to 2008).
One more thing, would it be ok for me to get my brother to pay for it on his card or will it have to be mine?
Regards
Hi Rey,
the driver must have a credit card in their own name to pay with and to present at the time of collection.
If your brother would like to pay for the car, then he will need to be the named driver. You could then add yourself on as an additional driver, for an extra fee.
Charlotte
I’m looking to hire a Audi A4 auto transmission from Gatwick. Are these new models SE or S-Line?
Hi Thomas,
The Audi A4’s that are currently being delivered on to our fleet for 2010 are the ‘SE’ Model. This includes the Automatic’s.
Many Thanks,
Andy