How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car?
Abacus Vehicle Hire
June 19, 2026
Whether you're planning a weekend away, need a temporary replacement vehicle, or simply don't want to put extra miles on your own car, hiring a car can be a convenient and cost-effective solution.
One of the most common questions we hear is: How much does it cost to hire a car?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the length of hire, and the time of year. At Abacus Vehicle Hire, we offer a wide range of cars and 4x4 vehicles to suit different budgets and requirements.
How Much Is It To Hire A Car?
Car hire costs can vary significantly depending on the size and specification of the vehicle.
At Abacus Vehicle Hire, our car rental range starts from under £30 per day based on a 7-day hire period, with larger and more premium vehicles available for customers who require additional space, comfort, or features. Prices shown on our website include our online booking discount.
Some of our most popular vehicle categories include:
- Micro cars for economical everyday driving
- Small cars for commuting and city journeys
- Hatchbacks with additional passenger and luggage space
- Estate and crossover vehicles for family travel
- 4x4 pick-ups for work and leisure use
How Much To Hire A Car For A Week?
Weekly car hire is often the most cost-effective option, offering lower daily rates compared to shorter rentals.
As of 19th June 2026, our weekly rental prices start from:
| Vehicle | From Per Day* |
|---|---|
| Fiat 500 | £25.45 |
| Kia Picanto or Toyota Aygo | £28.45 |
| Peugeot 208 or Peugeot 2008 | £43.24 |
| Hyundai i20 Automatic | £50.36 |
| Nissan Qashqai | £52.16 |
| Mercedes-Benz A-Class Automatic | £57.39 |
| Toyota Hilux Invincible or Ford Ranger Wildtrak | £71.88 |
*Prices are based on a 7-day rental period and include the online discount available at the time of writing.
Which Car Should You Choose?
Micro Cars
Vehicles such as the Fiat 500 are ideal for:
- City driving
- Short journeys
- Solo travellers and couples
- Keeping fuel costs low
Small Cars
The Kia Picanto, Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 208, and Peugeot 2008 offer:
- Easy driving and parking
- Practical everyday transport
- More luggage space than a micro car
- Excellent fuel economy
Medium Hatchbacks
If you need additional comfort and space, vehicles such as the Hyundai i20 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class are popular choices for:
- Longer journeys
- Business travel
- Family use
- Drivers who prefer an automatic transmission
Estate & Crossover Vehicles
The Nissan Qashqai provides:
- Increased passenger comfort
- Extra luggage capacity
- Higher driving position
- Versatility for longer trips
4x4 Pick-Ups
The Toyota Hilux Invincible and Ford Ranger Wildtrak are ideal for:
- Trade and construction work
- Towing requirements
- Rural driving
- Customers needing a robust work vehicle
What Affects The Cost Of Car Hire?
Several factors can influence the price of car hire:
Vehicle Type
Larger and more premium vehicles generally cost more to hire than smaller economy cars.
Hire Duration
Weekly rentals often provide the best value, reducing the daily cost compared to shorter bookings.
Driver Requirements
Certain vehicles have minimum age requirements due to insurance criteria.
Seasonal Demand
Availability and demand can vary throughout the year, particularly during holiday periods and peak travel seasons.
Why Hire A Car?
Car hire can be a convenient solution for many situations, including:
- Holidays and road trips
- Business travel
- Temporary replacement vehicles
- Family visits
- Testing a larger vehicle before purchase
- Avoiding wear and tear on your own car
With modern, well-maintained vehicles available across a range of sizes, hiring a car allows you to choose the right vehicle for the job without the commitment of ownership.