Car hire in France: supermarket rentals, peer-to-peer options, and how to save
Popularity has risen over the past decade with convenient and affordable options
A common drawback of supermarket rentals is their location, often situated on the outskirts of towns
Tomasz Romski / Shutterstock
Supermarket car and van hire services have gained popularity in France over the past decade, often offering affordable and convenient options for drivers.
Approximately six million short-term car hire contracts are signed annually in France, with a significant portion attributed to holidaymakers – and most are pleased with the experience, a survey by UFC-Que Choisir consumer association shows.
The survey, conducted between 13 and 23 March 2025, included 1,606 respondents and evaluated services from both traditional rental companies and supermarket chains.
Supermarkets like E.Leclerc, Intermarché, and System-U have developed well-established hire schemes, leading to increased accessibility in rural areas.
E.Leclerc received an 86% customer satisfaction rating, while other supermarkets averaged 88%, with clients particularly appreciating the prices – approximately one-third cheaper than traditional agencies.
In contrast, traditional car hire firms had a 78% satisfaction rate.
Drawbacks of supermarket rentals
One drawback of supermarket rentals can be their location, often situated on the outskirts of towns, which can be inconvenient for those arriving by train or long-distance coach.
Additionally, the survey found that prices from traditional firms varied significantly; for instance, a 500 km rental of a small car ranged from €241 with Rent a Car to €392 with Sixt. Insurance costs also varied, with UFC-Que Choisir reporting €82 at Sixt and €205 at Europcar.
Peer-to-peer platforms
The emergence of peer-to-peer platforms like Turo and Getaround has introduced a new dimension to the market. These services, operating similarly to Airbnb, allow individuals to rent out their vehicles.
Turo reported an 88% customer satisfaction rating and was found to be 30% cheaper than traditional hire firms, while Getaround was 40% cheaper. However, availability on these platforms is primarily concentrated in urban areas.
While supermarket and peer-to-peer car hire services offer cost-effective and convenient options, especially in rural France, potential customers should consider factors like location, insurance costs, and availability when making their choice.
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