Updated 17/12/2023
Standard SUV is a 5-passenger vehicle that is larger than a midsize SUV and smaller than a full-size SUV. Standard SUVs offer raised ground clearance and four-wheel drive. They allow you to drive on any terrain and bring you a lot of positive emotions. In a standard SUV, you will always enjoy your comfortable ride and enough space for 2 small bags and 1 large bag in the trunk.
Standard SUV rental examples in Los Angeles
Now you know what is a standard SUV, so let’s take a look at the most popular models for this car type. The most popular standard SUV rental examples are Ford Escape, Audi Q5, Ford Edge, and Mitsubishi Outlander. These standard SUV rental car types deserve to be in high demand. They are ready for any road and duration of a journey.
Ford Escape
Number of seats in the car: 5
Trunk volume: behind 2nd row: 37.5 cubic feet; behind 1st row: 65.4 cubic feet
Fuel consumption: 44 mpg
Audi Q5
Number of seats in the car: 5
Trunk volume: 25.8 cubic feet of space behind its rear seats and 54 cubic feet with the 2nd row folded down
Fuel consumption: 22 mpg
Ford Edge
Number of seats in the car: 5
Trunk volume: 39.2 cubic feet of space behind its rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down
Fuel consumption: 21 mpg
Mitsubishi Outlander
Number of seats in the car: 5-7
Trunk volume: 11.7 cubic feet of space behind its 3rd row; 33.5 cubic feet with 3rd-row seats folded; and up to 79.7 cubic feet when 2nd and 3rd rows are folded
Fuel consumption: 31 mpg
Standard SUV vs. Compact SUV
The main difference between a standard SUV and a compact SUV is size. A standard SUV is significantly larger than a compact SUV. Standard SUVs have more trunk space than compact SUVs and can seat 5-7 people, while compact SUVs can offer seatings for 4-5 passengers.
Standard SUV vs. Midsize SUV
A standard SUV is usually larger than a midsize SUV. They have similar structures, but standard SUVs have more trunk space than compact SUVs. However, most car models of both SUV rental classes are suitable for the comfortable seating of 5 passengers. Midsize SUVs for rent use less fuel and have lower emission levels compared to standard SUVs.
Standard SUV vs full size SUV: which is better for a trip in Los Angeles?
Although standard and full-size SUVs are similar in many aspects, each category has unique characteristics. Let’s compare the key specs and identify their differences:
- Rental price. At LAX Airport, the average cost of standard (Toyota 4Runner or similar) and full-size (Nissan Pathfinder or similar) SUVs within a single company is $38/day and $44/day, respectively. This means their daily cost differs by about 10%.
- Interior and trunk size. If you compare a full-size car vs standard SUV rentals by space, you will see that the first one is usually larger and has up to 3 rows of seating for 7 people. At the same time, standard models usually have 5-seats and can accommodate less luggage.
- Power and drivability. Standard SUVs are smaller and easier to maneuver/park. However, full-size vehicles are more powerful, resulting in better towing and off-road capabilities.
- Fuel economy. When comparing the fuel economy of standard (about 30 MPG combined) and full-size (about 23 MPG combined) SUVs, the first one offers better mileage due to less weight.
- Design and ergonomics. If in doubt about which is a better rental choice for a trip with 3 kids – a standard SUV or a full-size one – opt for a more spacious vehicle. A full-size SUV has a more flexible and configurable design that provides more comfort (even though both options are practical).
- Safety functions. As a class, SUVs (both standard and full-size) provide high crash safety scores compared to sedans and hatchbacks.
Final Words
When arriving at Los Angeles Airport, many people wonder not only about which car rental category to choose but also which company to select for a standard size SUV rental in LAX. Here is a list of standard SUV rental agencies operating at LAX Airport: Dollar, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Sixt, National or Thrifty.
There are different types of rental SUVs at LAX Airport, such as compact, midsize, standard, full size, and premium. Choose the one that fits your needs best and start the trip!