Renting a car can be an affordable and convenient way to get around, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. Sixt and Turo are two popular car rental options, but they operate quite differently.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Sixt and Turo to help you decide which service best fits your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Sixt | Turo |
| Vehicle fleet | Mainstream brands, standard car classes | Huge variety of makes, models, luxury & specialty cars |
| Locations | 2,200+ rental locations worldwide | Available in 5,500+ cities globally |
| Pricing | Competitive base rates, extra fees add up | Lower per day rates, limited fees |
| Rental experience | Streamlined, professional | Personalized, more coordination required |
| Vehicle condition | Newer models, centrally maintained | Range from old to nearly-new, variability |
| Protections | Solid insurance options available | Must opt for premium coverage |
| Qualifications | Standard rental requirements | Hosts set own requirements |
| Support | Professional support system | Email, in-app, call center |
Overview of Sixt and Turo
Sixt is a traditional car rental company with locations around the world. Like most major rental car providers, Sixt has a large fleet of vehicles that you can reserve online and pick up at Sixt rental branches.
Turo, on the other hand, is a peer-to-peer car sharing platform. With Turo, you rent vehicles directly from local hosts, most of whom are everyday car owners renting out their personal vehicles when not in use. Turo does not own a fleet of cars. Rather, hosts make their own vehicles available for rent via the Turo app/website.
Also Read: Comparison Between Sixt And Hertz
Key Differences Between Sixt And Turo
- Vehicle selection
Sixt has a diverse fleet of mainstream and luxury vehicles from brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Ford. They offer standard car classes ranging from economy and compact to SUVs. and vans. Selection varies by location.
Turo has a wider variety of makes/models since vehicles come directly from hosts. Options range from standard cars to high-end luxury and specialty vehicles like Porsches, Teslas, and convertibles. Selection varies greatly by region.
- Location availability
Sixt has roughly 2,200 locations worldwide, primarily concentrated in Europe but with a growing US presence. Locations include airports, city branches, and suburban areas.
Turo is available in over 5,500 cities globally. Since hosts deliver vehicles directly to you, Turo offers more location flexibility versus Sixt’s set rental branches.
- Pricing and fees
Sixt’s base rental rates are competitive with other major car rental companies. Add-on fees can add up quickly, like charges for extra drivers, car seats, GPS rentals, etc. Fuel and mileage options vary.
Turo’s per day rates are generally cheaper than traditional rental companies. Extra fees are limited, though you may incur cleaning or delivery charges. Hosts set their own pricing and policies. Insurance is optional but advised.
- Rental experience
Sixt offers a streamlined yet impersonal experience similar to major rental agencies. You pick up and return vehicles to Sixt locations during staffed hours. Staff assist with rentals.
Turo provides a more personalized experience since you interact directly with vehicle owners. Hosts often deliver vehicles directly to you and many are flexible on logistics. Requires more coordination.
- Vehicle condition and maintenance
Sixt offers newer model vehicles that are centrally maintained to the company’s standards. Breakdowns or issues are resolved by Sixt staff.
Turo’s vehicles range from older, budget options to nearly-new models. Maintenance is the host’s responsibility. If issues occur, you’ll need to coordinate directly with your host. More variability.
- Insurance and protections
Sixt includes minimum liability insurance but offers additional coverages like damage waivers for an added fee. As a major agency, they provide solid insurance backing.
Turo requires hosts to carry insurance that covers drivers, but you should opt for their premium coverage for maximum protection. Review Turo’s protection plans closely.
- Eligibility and qualifications
Sixt has standard rental requirements. You’ll need a valid driver’s license, credit card, and to meet minimum age and other qualifications. Overall, qualification is fairly straightforward.
Turo has hosts set their own requirements. Many limit renters to age 25+, require past reviews/verifications, and/or impose strict cancellation policies. Qualifying can take more effort.
- Customer support
Sixt offers 24/7 phone and in-person support from its rental locations. As a major company, they have an established infrastructure.
Turo offers customer support via email, in-app messaging, and its “Help Center”. Response times can vary. Issues often need to be resolved directly with hosts.
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Key Questions to Consider
When choosing between Sixt and Turo, here are some key questions to consider:
- Do you need to rent a specific make or model of vehicle? Turo will offer far more variety.
- Is availability at a particular location/time critical? Sixt has more inventory at set spots.
- How comfortable are you coordinating details and logistics with individual car owners? Turo requires much more coordination.
- Do you want robust insurance options and established company backing? Sixt offers more peace of mind.
- Are you comfortable renting an older model or private vehicle? Turo vehicles vary more in condition.
- How important are low costs and price guarantees? Turo offers very budget-friendly options.
When to Choose Sixt
Sixt makes sense if you value:
- A streamlined rental experience at set company locations
- The assurance of maintained, current-model vehicles
- Established insurance/protections and professional support
- Flexible mileage, fuel, and add-on rental options
- Ease of reserving and picking up vehicles
When to Choose Turo
Turo is ideal if you value:
- Access to a huge variety of makes, models, and vehicle types
- Affordable pricing and discounts for longer rentals
- Flexible locations since hosts deliver vehicles to you
- Direct coordination and a personalized experience
- Ability to carefully screen hosts, reviews and policies
- Unique selection of luxury, specialty, or higher-end vehicles
Also Read: You Should Choose Between Alamo And Sixt Car Rental
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Turo’s biggest competitor is traditional car rental companies, especially Hertz, Avis, Enterprise and Sixt. However, Turo’s unique peer-to-peer model sets it apart, with GetAround being Turo’s closest head-to-head competitor.
Turo provides several ways to get questions answered:
Message your host directly through the Turo app/website. Tweet @TuroSupport for assistance from Turo’s Twitter team. Browse Turo’s robust Help Center for FAQs. Submit a support request via email at support@turo.com. Call Turo’s support line at (415) 985-4519.
You can talk to a Sixt representative in several ways: Call 1-888-749-8227 to reach Sixt’s 24/7 US-based customer support team. Visit a Sixt rental location to speak with an agent in person. Start a live chat at sixt.com during business hours to message a Sixt team member. Reach out on social media by tweeting @SixtUSA or visiting their Facebook page.
Sixt requires a deposit to reserve your rental vehicle. Minimum deposit amounts are: $200 for rentals 1-6 days, 10% of the total estimated rental cost for rentals 7 days or longer, Higher deposits may be required for specialty or luxury vehicles. The deposit can be made via credit card or debit card when you make your reservation. Your deposit will be applied toward the final rental cost.
Also Read: Comparison Between GoShare and Dolly
The Bottom Line
Sixt provides consistency and professionalism, while Turo offers great variety and personalized service. Consider where your priorities lie as a renter. For most travelers, Turo offers an affordable way to access more vehicle options in more places, if you’re willing to sacrifice professional amenities for cost savings and flexibility. For those who prioritize seamless service and ironclad protections, Sixt is the safer bet.
