Fuss free and convenient

Picked the Outback for Subaru’s AWD, but the branch said the model I booked was in for repairs so I couldn’t have it (no idea if that was actually true). They said I could “upgrade” to a pickup, which made no sense since we had huge suitcases, so the only SUV option left was to upgrade to a Ford Everest. The price wasn’t crazy, about 60 RMB per day. They ended up giving us the Platinum version – great spec, V6 diesel with full-time 4WD, perfect for all the different road conditions on the South Island – so we didn’t bother arguing at the counter, but it still felt like a bit of a sneaky upsell. In terms of driving, the Everest was totally fine: RWD on tarmac, switchable 4WD off-road, more than enough. The paint was tough too, all those flying stones didn’t leave any visible scratches. Only downside: it guzzles fuel – 80L of diesel for about 650km of range.

I went to so much trouble to ensure I book a Ford Mustang (which is celebrating its 60 year anniversary in 2024) as a surprise for my wife who happened to turn 60 on the 29th September 2024. Needless to say it was impossible to find another Ford Mustang an hour before I was to book out of our hotel so we trundled along in a RAV 4 which I would not drive if you paid me back in Australia. As you can imagine it was an absolute mood spoiler on what should have been a HUGE surprise. I understand that cars get damaged (which is what I was told) but to then offer an entry level RAV 4 as replacement is a slap in the face – I would have thought that the least your company could have done was to offer us a complimentary upgrade – what I would have expected of your company was to advise me upfront that the vehicle was not available, when it became evident – but I guess that is too much to expect given the volumes of customers you deal with.

Due to my flight, I arrived at the pickup location after 11 PM. The staff waited for me, and they only finished work after I received the car. I am very grateful.

It was absolutely fantastic