Rental Cars Get Some Style

In all the world, there's generally nothing more stultifying to the soul of a car guy than a rental. How many underpowered automatic vinyl-seated monstrosities have we all had to endure? Rental agencies are the dumping ground for the unloved and unlovable ugly babies of the automotive world.

But international travelers can now sign up for a luxurious treat with Auto Europe's new prestige car hire service. Visit http://www.auto-europe.co.uk and select 'Luxury London Cars' from the Specials menu to discover a red carpet roll call of cars made by BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Lotus, Porsche, Bentley and Aston Martin.

The new service is designed for those with money to spare while traveling on business or pleasure. Every car is guaranteed to be less than 2 years old and most are loaded up with extras like satellite navigation, tinted windows, DVD players, TVs and Bluetooth phone kits. "You may even get a fridge to keep your refreshments chilled!" exclaims Auto Europe's announcement. This is key, because if you've ever been to Britain, you know that they view a frosty drink as an outrageous self-indulgence suitable only for Saudi princes. Even the Royal Family drinks their Red Bull warm over there.

Closer to home, Avis Rent A Car System today announced the addition of the storied Chevrolet Corvette convertible to its U.S. fleet. The Vette is the newest member of the Avis 'Cool Car' Collection, a series of popular high-end vehicles that can be specifically reserved by make and model. The Chevrolet Corvette convertible is now available with guaranteed reservations at select Avis locations in Arizona, California, Florida and Las Vegas.

The 2008 Chevrolet Corvette convertible features a 430-horsepower 6.2-liter LS3 V8 aluminum-block engine and electronic keyless ignition with pushbutton start. Other standard features include cruise control, power door locks and windows, auto-dimming mirrors, an auxiliary audio input jack and active handling system.

The Corvette joins a diverse fleet of Avis vehicles, including more than 100 different makes and models offered in an expanded variety of car classes. Avis recently introduced the subcompact Toyota Prius gas/electric hybrid, the full-size Nissan Altima hybrid and the small SUV Ford Escape hybrid to its Cool Car Collection. Other popular vehicles in the Collection include the Cadillac CTS, Hummer H3, Lincoln MKX, and Chrysler Crossfire.