Quick Summary
- Most rental suppliers offer categories such as compact, SUV or minivan rather than a guaranteed make or model.
- You can ask staff for a preferred model or colour at pick up, but the answer depends on what is physically parked in the lot.
- Booking early with Hola Car Rentals, choosing the right category and noting preferences on your booking all increase your chances.
How model and colour requests really work
When you book car hire in the United States, the confirmation will usually show an example such as Toyota Corolla or similar. That wording is important. It means you are reserving a vehicle class with certain features, not a specific car with a fixed registration number.
Suppliers group vehicles by size, number of doors, luggage capacity and comfort features. In practice this means any car in that group is acceptable for your booking, whether you collect it at Miami Airport or in a smaller downtown location.
Can you request a particular model
Most counters are happy to note a preference, especially if you mention it politely when you reach the desk. If you are keen on a certain model for a long road trip, arriving early and queuing towards the front can help, as more vehicles are still on the line.
However, even if the agent adds a note, the supplier is not promising that exact car. Another customer may extend their hire, or a vehicle could be taken out of service for a safety check. That is why Hola Car Rentals always treats model preferences as requests rather than guarantees.
If you have your heart set on something like a convertible in Nevada, it can help to choose a higher category at a busy base such as Las Vegas Airport. Higher categories tend to have more similar vehicles on fleet, so there is a better chance of finding one that meets your wish list.
What about colour preferences
Colour is even harder to guarantee than model. Fleet managers order a mix of colours and those cars move between locations all the time. You are unlikely to be promised a red SUV or a white saloon in writing.
If colour matters because of heat or visibility, mention it at the counter and be flexible about model. Staff may be able to offer a light coloured car that keeps cool on the highway to the coast, even if it is not the exact model shown on your confirmation.
Choosing the right category with Hola Car Rentals
The best way to feel confident is to focus on choosing the right size and category. Hola Car Rentals works with trusted partners across the USA and clearly labels categories so you know how many suitcases, passengers and doors to expect.
If you are unsure, start with Hola Car Rentals practical guide to choosing the right size, then match that advice with the offer you see on screen.
Where possible, Hola Car Rentals also highlights vehicles that are commonly used as examples in each category at major airports like New York JFK. You still book a category, but you get a much clearer picture of what is likely to be available.
Many itineraries also include All Inclusive Plus cover with maximum liability protection, free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick up and cashback on tolls. Those benefits apply whichever model is ultimately handed to you at the kerb.
FAQs about choosing a model or colour
Is any part of my booking guaranteed?
Yes. The supplier must provide a vehicle in the category you booked or a higher one. The exact make, model and colour are flexible, but the size and basic features are not.
How can I increase my chances of getting the model I want?
Book early, choose the right category, avoid very late arrivals where fleets are already thin and mention your preference politely at the desk. Being flexible on colour and trim also helps.
Can I pay extra to lock in a particular model?
In some premium and speciality categories, suppliers may offer a specific car at a higher rate, for example a muscle car or large SUV. Availability is limited and depends on the location, so Hola Car Rentals will always show you clearly if this option exists for your dates.
What if I really dislike the car offered?
If the car does not meet the category you booked, or you have genuine concerns about comfort or safety, speak to the team straight away. They may be able to offer an alternative or an upgrade at the counter, depending on what is in stock.
When you are ready to plan your next road trip, book through Hola Car Rentals for clear categories, flexible cover options and friendly support before, during and after your journey.
