The pick-up: The car rental desks are well signposted throughout the airport and lead you downstairs and outside, where Avis and a couple of other car hire companies occupy a single building. There was a short wait while the solitary member of staff dealt with the customer in front, before turning their attention to me. My rental details were quickly located, the key handed over and a wad of paperwork completed. I opted to take out additional cover as the car was brand new and had an excess charge in the region of £600.
A 'Fuel Up Front' offer was hastily explained and I later had to call Avis to clarify the deal. Roadside assistance was included in the deal. Made my way to the car and checked it for damage as marked up on Avis' paperwork which, as well as listing the obvious missing wing mirror casing, also included the slightest of nicks and marks to paintwork and bumpers.
THE car: A new VW Golf BlueMotion Technology SE, a more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient edition of the classic car and a member of the Avis Eco Collection. All Avis Eco Collection vehicles run on diesel fuel and have CO2 emissions below 110g/km compared to the UK average 175g/km. The spec for this particular model lists 107g/km emissions, 68.9 miles per gallon – which wasn't too far out – and a theoretical range of 800 miles on a full 55-litre tank. Fuel-saving devices included an automatic engine start/stop system (which took some getting used to!) and suggested gear changes illuminated on the dashboard. Other features included seven airbags, ABS brakes, air conditioning, CD player and an iPod input for the stereo. Overall, a stylish car that was lovely to drive.
The Drop-off: I filled the tank up before returning to the Avis depot where a member of staff gave the vehicle a quick check-up before giving me the OK. An 'out of hours' return option was offered when I picked the vehicle up, plus you get 60 minutes grace on your booked drop-off time.
The verdict: The VW Golf BlueMotion is an excellent addition to the Avis Eco Collection, boasting an impressive spec for those corporates with an eye on their carbon footprint. Avis staff were affable and the rental procedure went without a hitch.
The details: A three-day rental of a VW Golf 1.6 TDI 105ps Blue Motion in November costs around £123, based on a pick-up and drop-off at Gatwick Airport. Tel: 0844 581 0147; see: www.avis.co.uk. Andy Hoskins
