11 Car-Rental Tips for Indians: Easy Driving Across Europe

4. Choose the right car and transmission for your trip

Size matters in European driving. Narrow lanes, tight parking spaces, and tiny roundabouts make a compact car a sensible choice for many routes. If you plan long motorway stretches or travel with family and luggage, a mid-size car with ample boot space may be more comfortable. Manual-transmission cars tend to be cheaper to rent across Europe, but if you don’t drive stick at home, budgeting for an automatic will save frustration and reduce mistakes on unfamiliar roads. Consider fuel type: some regions still price diesel cheaper, while electric cars are a good option in countries with dense charging networks. If choosing an electric vehicle, check charging coverage along your planned route and confirm any charging adapter needs. Also, check the tyre type: winter tyres are required in some countries during colder months. Make a quick list of must-haves—fuel type, boot size, transmission, and child-seat mounts—before you compare rental quotes. Picking the right car turns driving from an endurance test into a pleasant, scenic activity.