Okay, I got a rate of $506 for our rental car with Avis after MUCH shopping. We are picking up in Denver on August 9th, returning to Phoenix on August 17th. There are 4 of us plus luggage, so I couldn't go with anything too small. It is described as an intermediate SUV. Yesterday while I was out I noticed a Pontiac Vibe in the next lane and I thought, wait a minute, isn’t that what we’re renting? That’s a small station wagon! Sure enough, that’s it. I priced out real SUVs and they all look to be a lot more. I think it will do, but I think calling it an SUV is rather deceptive!

All the defined terms for cars have shrunk. Have you seen what they define as "compact"?

Pat, don't stress.

Are you a frequent renter with Avis? If not, join their program and you'll probably get a free upgrade for joining.

Also, with gas prices the way they are, people now are requesting smaller gas friendly vehicles and they are the first ones to go. The larger cars and the last ones to rent.

I think you'll be fine.

Thanks GoTravel! I'm hoping that we'll end up getting upgraded to something larger, but if not we can make do. And it will be easier on gas anyway.

These days they can't get rid of the bigger cars, so you'll probably be upgraded to something huge even if you don't want it.

Also there's a $30 off coupon to use on the Avis website.