Most cars in large local car-rental companies such as Yongda, Anji and Dazhong are leased so far with the Buick Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) in high demand.

Santana and Jetta were previously the most popular car models rented by Shanghai people for travel, while the high-end Buick models have generated great interest among locals renting cars this year. However, the rent on a Buick GL or GS model is between 650 yuan and 750 yuan (US$78-US$90) a day, nearly double those of the Santana and Jetta cars.

Compared with Santana, Buick looks better, has greater capabilities and is safer and more comfortable, said a car leaser. "I don't mind paying a higher cost for a Buick to enjoy the holiday," he said.

SUV cars are very popular in the car renting market, according to some car-rental firms.

"All the 31 Buick GL8 SUV cars were leased out several days ago," said an employee with the Shanghai Yongda Car Rental Co.

Local people are more inclined to go travel with a group of friends, so SUV cars are a better choice, said an industry analyst. Moreover, SUV cars are safer on rugged and rough roads, the analyst said.

According to the data, most people rented cars for seven days, a lesser number rented them for two or three days.

(eastday.com September 28, 2002)