Comparing National vs. Enterprise Car Rental: Loyalty Programs & Customer Reviews

History of National Car Rental

National Car Rental has a rich history in the car rental industry.

• Established in 1947.
• Grew rapidly to become a major player in the market.
• Innovations like the first company to offer a “one-way” rental service.

History of Enterprise Car Rental

When it comes to car rental giants, Enterprise is a standout player. Established in 1957, the company has a compelling history worth exploring.

Enterprise was founded with a simple but genius idea. Jack Taylor wanted to create a company that focused on treating customers right. This customer-centric approach has been a cornerstone of Enterprise’s success.

A pivotal moment in Enterprise’s history was the launch of the “We’ll pick you up” campaign. This initiative set Enterprise apart by offering a unique service that prioritized convenience and customer service.

Over the years, Enterprise has expanded its reach globally. With over 7,600 locations worldwide, it’s clear that Enterprise has cemented its position as a leader in the car rental industry.

Year Established	Number of Locations
1957	over 7,600

Services Offered by National Car Rental

When considering National Car Rental for your next trip, you can expect a range of convenient services tailored to meet your specific needs. Here’s a glimpse into what National Car Rental has to offer:

• Wide Selection of Vehicles: Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, National Car Rental provides a diverse fleet of vehicles to choose from, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your journey.
• Emerald Club: Joining the Emerald Club rewards program gives you access to expedited service and special benefits, such as being able to bypass the counter and choose any car on the Emerald Aisle.
• One-Way Rentals: National Car Rental offers the flexibility of one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up a vehicle at one location and return it to another, making your travel plans more convenient.
• Mobile App: With the National Car Rental mobile app, you can easily book your vehicle, modify reservations on-the-go, and even choose your preferred car in advance.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: For peace of mind during your travels, National Car Rental provides round-the-clock roadside assistance to ensure you’re never stranded in case of unexpected car issues.

Incorporating these services into your travel plans can enhance your overall experience and make your journey more enjoyable and stress-free.

Services Offered by Enterprise Car Rental

When it comes to Enterprise Car Rental, they also provide a range of services to cater to your travel needs. Here’s a look at what you can expect from Enterprise:

• Wide Vehicle Selection: Enterprises offer a variety of vehicles suitable for solo trips or group travel, ensuring you find the right fit for your journey.
• Enterprise Plus Loyalty Program: Earn points with every rental through the Enterprise Plus program, which can lead to free rentals and upgrades for a more rewarding experience.
• Flexible One-Way Rentals: Enterprise allows you the flexibility of one-way rentals, making it convenient for those longer or more complex trips.
• User-Friendly App: With Enterprise’s user-friendly app, you can easily book your vehicle, make modifications, and access important rental information on the go.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Rest easy knowing that Enterprise provides around-the-clock roadside assistance to ensure you’re taken care of no matter the situation.

Key Data and Statistics

Service	Key Feature
Vehicle Selection	Wide range suitable for all types of travel
Loyalty Program	Earn points for rewards and upgrades
One-Way Rentals	Flexibility for varied travel plans
Mobile App	Convenient booking and management on-the-go
Roadside Assistance	24/7 support for peace of mind

Pros and Cons of National Car Rental

Wondering about the pros and cons of National Car Rental? Let’s dive in:

• Pros:
• Wide Selection: National Car Rental offers a diverse range of vehicles to choose from, catering to various preferences and needs.
• Emerald Club: The Emerald Club loyalty program provides benefits like faster reservations and priority service to enhance your rental experience.
• Convenient App: Their user-friendly mobile app allows you to book, modify, and manage your reservations seamlessly on the go.
• Eco-Friendly Options: National Car Rental offers hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicle options for environmentally conscious travelers.
• Cons:
• Limited Locations: National Car Rental may have fewer locations compared to some competitors, which could be a factor to consider based on your travel destinations.
• Price Variability: Rental prices at National Car Rental could occasionally be higher than other options, depending on the location and timing of your booking.
• Fewer Vehicle Types: While they offer a good selection, National Car Rental’s fleet might have a narrower range of vehicle types compared to other rental companies.

When weighing your options, keep in mind these key points for National Car Rental.

Pros and Cons of Enterprise Car Rental

Pros:

• Extensive Network: Enterprise Car Rental has a widespread presence with over 9,000 locations globally.
• Diverse Fleet: You’ll find a wide range of vehicle options, including sedans, trucks, SUVs, and luxury cars.
• Competitive Pricing: Enterprise often offers affordable rates and various discount options.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Their customer service is known for being helpful and accommodating.
• Exemplary Cleanliness: Vehicles are typically well-maintained and clean, providing a pleasant driving experience.

• Lack of Airport Locations: Enterprise may have fewer rental locations at airports compared to some competitors.
• Limited Hours: Some Enterprise locations have restricted hours of operation, which could be inconvenient for late arrivals or early departures.
• Potential Price Fluctuations: Rates may vary based on demand and location.
• Fleet Limitations: While diverse, the selection may not be as extensive as some other rental companies.
• Wait Times: During peak travel seasons, there could be longer wait times at Enterprise locations.

Loyalty Programs Comparison

When comparing National Car Rental and Enterprise Car Rental in terms of loyalty programs, each has its unique offerings to cater to your travel needs.

National Car Rental’s Emerald Club Loyalty Program

With National Car Rental’s Emerald Club loyalty program, you enjoy benefits like faster reservations and counter bypass. This means you can speed up the car rental process and get on the road quicker. Additionally, the program allows you to earn free rental days based on the number of rentals or the rental days with National.

Enterprise Car Rental’s Enterprise Plus Loyalty Program

Enterprise Car Rental’s Enterprise Plus loyalty program offers points that never expire, giving you the flexibility to redeem them whenever you wish. You can earn points on qualified rentals to use towards free rental days or other rewards.

Considering these factors can help you decide which loyalty program aligns best with your travel preferences and habits.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

When comparing National and Enterprise Car Rental services, Customer Reviews and Ratings play a crucial role in decision-making. Here’s a snapshot of what customers have to say about their experiences with each:

National Car Rental:

• Customers often praise the convenience of the Emerald Club loyalty program, which allows for faster reservations and streamlined pick-up/drop-off processes.
• Many frequent travelers commend National for consistency in vehicle quality and customer service.
• The variety of vehicle options and cleanliness of cars are highlighted as positive aspects by several reviewers.

• Customers appreciate the flexibility offered by the Enterprise Plus loyalty program, especially the ability to redeem points for various rewards.
• Several reviews mention competitive pricing and availability of rental locations as advantages of choosing Enterprise.
• The friendly and helpful staff at Enterprise locations receive praise for their professionalism and efficiency.

National vs. Enterprise: Which One to Choose?

When it comes to National vs. Enterprise Car Rental, weighing customer reviews and ratings alongside loyalty program benefits can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

So, when it comes to choosing between National and Enterprise for your car rental needs, it ultimately boils down to what matters most to you. National’s Emerald Club loyalty program shines with its convenience and consistent service, while Enterprise’s Enterprise Plus program offers flexibility and competitive pricing. Both companies have their strengths, from vehicle quality to rental locations. Your decision should align with your priorities and preferences. Whether you value convenience, flexibility, or competitive pricing, both National and Enterprise have something unique to offer. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which loyalty program is better, National Car Rental’s Emerald Club or Enterprise Car Rental’s Enterprise Plus?

Both loyalty programs have their strengths: National’s Emerald Club is known for convenience and consistent quality, while Enterprise’s Enterprise Plus offers flexibility and competitive pricing. Consider your priorities when choosing between them.

What do customers like about National Car Rental’s Emerald Club?

Customers appreciate the convenience and consistent quality of vehicles and customer service provided by National Car Rental’s Emerald Club.

What are the key advantages of Enterprise Car Rental’s Enterprise Plus loyalty program?

Enterprise Plus is praised for its flexibility, competitive pricing, availability of rental locations, and the professionalism of Enterprise staff.

How can travelers decide between National and Enterprise?

By considering customer feedback, loyalty program benefits, and personal preferences, travelers can make an informed choice between National and Enterprise.