The most popular models representing the mini, compact, and economy car segments in Southampton are: Peugeot 107, Smart Car, Toyota Aygo, Chevrolet Matiz, Hyundai Atos, Kia Picanto and others.
When hiring a budget hatchback, it is definitely worth saving on insurance deposit (franchise). Deposits on small cars in Great Britain vary from 100 to 1.000 euro/dollars. Check the rental conditions of each car in your selection to find a vehicle with a minimum deposit.
If your routes in Great Britain are foreseen to pass through hilly areas or mountains, it is not recommended to consider very small cars for rental. Their engines are usually insufficient for a confident driving on the roads with long or steep climbs.
At the rental office in Southampton, consider to take a 'Breakdown Assistance' package or ask an officer for a contact data to use in case of a vehicle breakdown. Cheap cars are sometimes unpredictable in operation.
Upon receipt of the rental invoice, please check that all the information, as well as the final payment amount do match the data in your voucher.
OrangeSmile.com wishes you a safe and great trip to Southampton!
Detailed FAQ on the rental process
Tourists, who have no much experience of driving in left-hand traffic, are strongly recommended to install a navigator in the car. It can be very difficult to monitor the unusual traffic, search and follow the road signs at the same time.
Local roads are equipped with signs not only for motorists, but also for pedestrians, who may also consider left-hand traffic very unusual. The parts of roads with crossings for pedestrians usually have special signs, such as «Look right» and «Look left». These signs are for pedestrians.
Local drivers have rather a condescending approach to tourists. If there is a misunderstanding with one of citizens while driving, tourists should apologize politely and explain their foreign origin to the driver. Most likely, after an apology the driver calms down and wishes an inexperienced foreign driver to be careful in future.
