Press Release Details

PARSIPPANY, N.J., Feb. 5, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The new year is underway and model-year 2013 vehicles are now available at Budget Car Rental locations throughout the United States and Canada. Budget has taken deliveries of new cars and SUVs from a variety of manufacturers, including Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, Chrysler, Hyundai and General Motors. Budget invites drivers to roll with the changes and reserve a car now.

"We take pride in providing customers with quality vehicles that meet their ever-changing needs," said Tom Gartland, president, North America, Avis Budget Group. "Our model-year 2013 fleet provides a wide variety of vehicles, giving our customers the chance to try something new. With great cars and great rates, there's never been a better time to 'Go Budget.'"

Budget's model-year 2013 vehicles offer travelers style, comfort and a way to save at the gas pump. Vehicles include the classic, two-door Volkswagen Beetle, which sports 17-inch alloy wheels and is rated at 31 miles per gallon (highway) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; the redesigned Ford Fusion, which is rated at 34 miles per gallon (highway); the Dodge Dart, Chrysler Group's "first vehicle based on parent company Fiat's architecture," with a fuel efficiency rating of 36 miles per gallon (highway); and the Nissan Altima rated at 38 miles per gallon (highway).

Other noteworthy vehicles in the Budget fleet include the 2013 Toyota Avalon, the automaker's "first car designed and engineered in North America"; the third-generation Hyundai Santa Fe with two-row, five-passenger seating; and the redesigned Ford Escape, with seating for five and more cargo space than the previous model year.

The Jeep Wrangler, Ford F-150 SuperCrew pickup truck and Ford Econoline E-350 12-passenger van are also available for rent. Vehicle availability will vary by location. For more information, customers should visit www.budget.com.

Despite the influx of new vehicles, Budget continues to help travelers stretch their budget. Those looking for the best deals should consider Budget's Pay Now rates, available at budget.com. Customers can lock in a discounted rate by choosing to pay for their rental in advance, as opposed to paying at the rental counter. Travelers can also subscribe to "Hot Deals," Budget's monthly e-newsletter, and receive money-saving offers via email available only to subscribers.

Those looking to purchase a quality, well-maintained used vehicle can also take advantage of Budget's Ultimate Test Drive Program available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada and Texas. "As we add new vehicles into our fleet, we make older models available for consumers to purchase via our Ultimate Test Drive program," said Mr. Gartland. "A wide variety of model-year 2012 vehicles are currently available for purchase, and many of our model-year 2013 vehicles will be available later this year. We encourage those looking for a wide selection of late-model cars at competitive prices to visit budget.com."

About Budget

Budget Car Rental is one of the world's best-known car rental brands with more than 3,000 locations in more than 120 countries. Budget is an industry leader in providing vehicle rental services to value-conscious travelers and also operates the second-largest truck rental business in the United States, through a network of more than 2,100 locations. Budget is owned by Avis Budget Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:CAR), which operates and licenses the brand throughout the world.  For further information, visit www.budget.com.

CONTACT: Alice Pereira

         (973) 496-6113

         alice.pereira@avisbudget.com