Turo — Car rental marketplace


Rating: 4.9	Downloads: 10,000,000+
Category: Travel & Local	Offer by: Turo Inc.

Turo — Car rental marketplace is a digital platform connecting car owners with people needing vehicles. Users can browse a wide range of cars, book them instantly, and pick them up from the owner, offering a flexible alternative to traditional rental agencies or private arrangements. It’s primarily for travelers, locals needing temporary transport, or anyone seeking short-term vehicle use.

The key value lies in its convenience for finding and using cars quickly, often avoiding hefty upfront deposits and providing more personal vehicle options. It offers practical usage for spontaneous road trips, airport pickups without relying on large agencies, or supplementing unreliable public transport.

App Features

Search & Browse: The intuitive search function allows users to filter by location, vehicle type, price range, and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect car for their needs. This saves time and ensures users quickly discover options that match their preferences and budget.
Smart Calendar & Availability: Users can view real-time availability of specific cars on a calendar and instantly book them outside of fixed office hours, leveraging the app’s seamless booking process. The integration of location context helps prevent confusion and ensures the right car is selected from the right host.
Host-to-Host Messaging: Direct communication channels allow renters to contact owners before, during, and after their trip, facilitating smooth handovers, clarifying expectations, and resolving any immediate issues. This fosters a more personal touch and clearer communication than impersonal booking systems.
Credit Card Pre-Authorization: The app uses a small, temporary authorization on the user’s credit card to guarantee payment, simplifying the transaction and reducing checkout friction. This feature is especially useful for international rentals and ensures hosts receive payment promptly and securely.
Review & Rating System: Both hosts and renters can leave detailed reviews and ratings based on their experience, promoting accountability and helping future users make informed decisions about reliability and service quality. Detailed feedback helps build trust within the platform community over time.
Multi-Currency Support: For users traveling internationally, Turo handles currency conversion transparently during booking, making cross-border rentals accessible and easier to budget for, supporting the app’s global user base effectively. The system clearly displays all costs in both currencies.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Wide Selection and Variety
Convenience of Anytime Booking
Lower Initial Costs Compared to Agencies
Simplified Host-User Communication Tool

Cons:

Potential Learning Curve for New Users
Dependence on Clear Host Communication
Occasional Hidden Fees (e.g., insurance)
Vehicle Condition and Availability Variability

Similar Apps

App Name	Highlights
Tridi	This app offers an extensive global network of cars, user-friendly navigation tools, and detailed vehicle history reports. Known for robust filtering and advanced search capabilities across multiple continents.
ZoomCar	Designed for seamless, quick rentals often near airports or specific locations. Includes guided check-in processes and real-time driver support.
Drivy	Offers an insurance marketplace, transparent pricing breakdown, and a strong emphasis on vehicle safety and condition checks.
Getaround	Popular for short-term, local car sharing, providing a flexible way to rent cars for daily use. Features concierge support and a curated selection of reliable vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I book a car through Turo?
A: First, use the search filters to find a suitable car and host. Review the vehicle details and terms. Click “Book Now”, agree to the terms, and authorize a small payment hold. Once confirmed, pick up your car from the host.

Q: Are there additional fees besides the base rental price?
A: Yes, common additional fees include cleaning fees (often included or charged based on usage), security deposits (usually refundable, deducted if damage occurs), and various insurance options (Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Roadside Assistance). Always check the breakdown during booking.

Q: What happens in case of an accident or tire issue while I have the car?
A: Turo encourages reporting incidents promptly via the in-app messaging or host contact details. Depending on the chosen insurance package, coverage for repairs or replacements varies significantly. Reviewing your insurance options during booking is crucial.

Q: Can I pay using PayPal?
A: Currently, PayPal is not an accepted payment method on Turo. The platform primarily uses Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and Apple Pay for credit card transactions.

Q: Are there cars available for rent in my city?
A: Turo operates in many cities worldwide, but availability depends on the host’s location. Use the map search within Turo to check if hosts are active near you before attempting to book.