Detroit Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Detroit

Renting a car in Detroit offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, managing your luggage and travel plans becomes hassle-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip. Whether you are seeking family experiences, a romantic getaway, or a city-themed adventure, a car provides convenience in reaching key attractions such as the Henry Ford Museum, GM Renaissance Center, and Hart Plaza, all located within the metropolitan area. You can easily navigate to Downtown Detroit, where notable sites like the Motown Museum await, or venture to Southfield and Dearborn to discover the Detroit Institute of Arts and Greenfield Village. This mobility is especially beneficial for families, couples, or any visitor wanting to make the most of their time. Instead of relying on public transport, having a rental car means you can create a personalised itinerary, visiting multiple destinations with ease. With Detroit's diverse attractions and interesting neighbourhoods, a rental car is an ideal choice for an enriching travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Detroit

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a balance of space and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your journey around Detroit with ample room for both passengers and luggage.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the Standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride while still being versatile enough to navigate both city streets and open roads, enhancing your travel experience in and around Detroit.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize option is designed for larger groups or families, accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle is perfect for those who need extra room for passengers and luggage, ensuring that you can explore the attractions of Detroit without any hassle.

Top rated car suppliers in Detroit

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility in Detroit. With one rental location, this supplier is known for its quick pickup and well-maintained vehicles. The most booked options include Premium SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making it a great choice for those needing extra space. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the hassle-free return process, contributing to a positive rental experience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a convenient option for those exploring Detroit with its single rental location. It is well-regarded for its competitive pricing and a selection of vehicles that includes Compact and Midsize cars. Customers often highlight the friendly service and efficient check-in process, making it an appealing choice for both short trips and longer explorations.
• Budget: With five rental locations in Detroit, Budget provides ample options for travellers needing a vehicle. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Luxury SUVs and Fullsize cars, appealing to those looking for comfort and style. Budget is known for its competitive rates and easy accessibility, ensuring a smooth rental experience for all types of travellers.

Where to stay in Detroit

• Downtown Detroit: A vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Detroit is ideal for a romantic, city-themed, or family experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as theatre and arena entertainment. Key attractions include the GM Renaissance Center, Hart Plaza, and the Motown Museum, all within close proximity. Additionally, there are numerous dining options ranging from restaurants to breweries and pubs, making it a lively area to explore.
• Romulus: This city offers a charming blend of family, romantic, and city-themed experiences. Romulus is home to notable attractions like the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, catering to those interested in history and culture. The area also features shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, perfect for a relaxed atmosphere.
• Southfield: Known for its family-friendly and romantic ambiance, Southfield provides access to cultural venues and shopping opportunities. Visitors can explore the Motown Museum, Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Detroit Golf Club, ensuring a rich cultural experience. The area also boasts numerous restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful spot for dining and leisure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Detroit

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There's often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Detroit

The best value period to rent a car in Detroit is August, as prices are lower and demand is high. This month is followed closely by September, when prices remain slightly low and demand stabilises. June also offers decent rates with average demand. In contrast, November tends to be the most expensive month, although it experiences low demand. October sees moderate prices and steady demand, making it a busy time for rentals as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High