How to Choose a Car Model: A Vehicle Guide from Two to Twenty People

Choose by number of people: 2 people: 5-seat sedan (such as Passat, Camry). Spacious rear seats, trunk can hold 2 pieces of 24-inch luggage. Daily rate 500–700 RMB. 3–4 people: 7-seat business vehicle (Buick GL8, Honda Odyssey). The GL8 is the benchmark for business vehicles in China, with very comfortable independent seats in the second row. Ample luggage space. Daily rate 700–1200 RMB. 5–6 people: 7-seat business vehicle (third row is relatively cramped) or 9-seat vehicle (Ford Transit, Maxus V80). 9-seat vehicles have large luggage space but average comfort. Daily rate 900–1400 RMB. 7–12 people: 14–17 seat minibuses (Toyota Coaster, Jinbei, Maxus). Coaster is the highest quality choice. Daily rate 1200–2000 RMB. 13–25 people: 33–39 seat large buses (Yutong, King Long). Daily rate 1500–2500 RMB. More than 25 people: 45–55 seat large buses. Daily rate 2000–3500 RMB. Luggage space is key. A common mistake in car rentals in China is choosing a vehicle based on the number of seats. In reality: - A 7-seat business vehicle, when fully occupied with 7 people, can only fit 4–5 pieces of 24-inch luggage in the trunk. - Comfort limit is achieved when 6 people are seated in a 7-seat vehicle. - For long trips (over 10 days) with large luggage per person, it is advised to choose a vehicle according to 'number of people +1'. - For winter trips to Northeast China or highlands, down jackets take up space, so choose an even larger vehicle. Road conditions and vehicle types: - City and highway: any type of vehicle is suitable. - Western Sichuan, Qinghai-Tibet, Northern Xinjiang: prioritize vehicles with high clearance (SUVs, Coaster, Yutong), as sedans may scrape the road on certain sections. - Winter in Northeast China: must have snow tires, and the driver should have experience on icy roads. - Grasslands and Gobi: vehicle condition and spare tires are important, as distance between gas stations may exceed 200 km.

Ancient Towns and Narrow Alleys: Medium and large buses cannot enter; parking must be done on the outskirts and continue on foot.

Checklist for Confirmation

• Car model and license plate (write in the contract, not just "same class").
• Car age and mileage (preferably within 5 years and under 200,000 km).
• Whether fuel fees and tolls are included.
• Daily mileage limit and excess mileage charges.
• Who bears the driver’s meals and accommodation.
• Type of insurance (passenger insurance is a must).
• Whether there is an operating license (legal operation is a prerequisite).
• Backup vehicle plan (what to do in case of a breakdown).

Common Vehicle Models Comparison

• Buick GL8: Standard Chinese business vehicle, second-row individual seats with leg rests, most comfortable for long trips.
• Toyota Coaster: Benchmark among medium buses, 10–17 seats, top choice for groups.
• Yutong/Kinglong Bus: Main domestic buses, 33–55 seats.
• Toyota Prado/Land Cruiser: Common in Western Sichuan and Tibet, strong off-road capability.
• Maxus V80/Ford Transit: 9–15 seats, spacious but seating comfort is average.