AutoUnion Rent a Car

AutoUnion Rent a Car is a name many UK travellers will meet first on a booking site rather than on the street, because it works as a worldwide network rather than a single local firm. The brand has more than 1,000 locations across 46 countries, over 30 years of experience and a 95 per cent rate of returning customers, and its slogan is that car hire is all about you.

In Malta the directory lists AutoUnion at Park East in Għudja, the airport district next to Luqa, which makes it a practical stop for visitors who want a car straight after landing. You will find it in our listings of car hire in Malta, alongside neighbours such as Aquarius Rent A Car, so you can set one quote beside another.

The cars and the booking process

Vehicles are grouped by class: Mini, Economy, Compact, Intermediate, Estate, Passenger Van and SUV, with premium models for those who want something smarter. The same range suits short trips and longer stays, as plans cover daily, weekly or monthly rental. You pick a category rather than a named model. AutoUnion tries to supply the car you request, and if that exact model is not available you receive a similar vehicle in the same class or a higher one.

Booking is online and takes about three minutes, from a phone, tablet or computer. You enter pickup and drop-off places, dates and times, and you can ask for a different drop-off location. Returning customers get 10 per cent off, and the manage your booking page lets you amend or cancel a reservation. Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the pickup time. A confirmation email follows with every detail.

Pricing is transparent, with no hidden charges. Optional extras such as child seats, booster seats, baby seats, GPS navigation and additional insurance packages are listed so you can see what you are paying before you confirm. Snow chains appear on the list too, though they are unlikely to interest anyone heading for a Maltese beach.

Delivery, support and extras

AutoUnion offers vehicle delivery and collection at selected locations, including major ports and selected hotels, and you choose the place during booking. Whether delivery covers a particular Maltese hotel is a question for the branch. If you are still choosing where to stay, our guide to where to stay in Malta compares the main resort areas.

Every rental includes 24 hour roadside assistance, covering mechanical breakdowns, flat tyres and lockouts. If a car is damaged, you may be liable for the excess stated in your rental agreement, depending on the insurance package you chose. Late returns can attract extra charges, so tell the branch as early as possible if you are running behind. A deposit is held on your card and, after the car comes back in the same condition, release usually shows in your account within 15 to 20 working days, depending on your bank. An additional driver can be added for a small daily fee and must show a passport or ID as well as a licence.

Documents and age rules

At collection you show a valid driving licence, the credit card used to secure the reservation, and any extra identification named in your confirmation, such as a passport or proof of address. An International Driving Permit is needed only where the rules require one for international drivers. The minimum age depends on the country's regulations and is set out in the terms and conditions, so check it before you book if you are a younger driver or hold a recent licence.

AutoUnion also welcomes established car rental companies who want to join its network as franchise partners, which explains the brand's international reach, though that is a matter for operators and not for visitors.

How to enquire

Because the brand's website gives no Malta-specific detail on opening hours, prices or the exact collection point, the best first step is a short enquiry. Tell us your arrival and return dates, the class of car you want, how many drivers there will be and whether you need delivery. Browse our things to do in Malta guide while you decide how much driving you plan to do.

Use the VisitMalta.co.uk enquiry form on this page and we will pass your message to AutoUnion, who will reply to you directly.