Car hire costs branded ‘extortionate’

MORE THAN 45% of hire car users described hidden costs such as insurance and fuel as extortionate, according to a new survey.

200 UK consumers aged over 30 and earning more than £20,000 per annum were quizzed for the survey, conducted on behalf of Carhiremarket.com, with over 45% agreeing that hidden costs for insurance and fuel were extortionate. Users cited greater transparency or an all-inclusive upfront price as a more desirable option.

Those polled were also asked about their reasons for hiring a car, and a surprising 67% of respondents said freedom and independence were their motive. A further 26% said they’d booked a hire car because it offered greater convenience over public transport.

Andrew Shorrock, Product Manager for carhiremarket.com said:

"Based on the findings in the survey, carhiremarket.com will be working with suppliers to try and understand their perspective so that Carhiremarket can provide some explanations to consumers seeking a more transparent system.”

By Press Association reporters