Perfect for budget-friendly car rentals, our economy rental vehicles combine practicality and comfort. Compact and easy to drive, these affordable cars are ideal for navigating Réunion’s roads and parking without hassle. Their low fuel consumption lets you travel with peace of mind while keeping costs under control. Air conditioning, unlimited mileage, and well-maintained vehicles, everything is designed to make your driving experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Inexpensive cars in the economy class are by far the most popular choice among travelers. As both the least expensive vehicles in the fleet and the most fuel-efficient to operate, they are highly sought after for their excellent value for the money.
To rent an economy vehicle, drivers must:
Be at least 21 years old
Hold a valid B-class driving license for at least 1 year
Additional drivers listed in the booking must meet the same requirements. More information can be found on our dedicated page for car rentals for young drivers.
To collect your car, you will need to present:
A valid driving license held for at least 1 year
A valid ID (passport or national identity card)
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit
Additional drivers listed in the rental contract must also provide their original ID and a valid driving license.
Planning a trip to Réunion and want a car without breaking the bank? Here are some practical tips to reduce your rental costs while keeping maximum freedom on the island.
Economy cars are the most affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles in our fleet. Choosing one helps you limit expenses while exploring the island, a smart way to enjoy Réunion without overspending.
Rental rates fluctuate with demand. The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing a competitive price. Planning ahead is the best way to rent a car at the lowest rate.
Booking online is generally cheaper than renting in person. At Thrifty Réunion, you even receive an immediate automatic discount when you book through our website.
If you have ANCV holiday vouchers, they can be used to pay for your rental, either partially or fully, directly at the agency, helping reduce the final cost.
Rental prices vary by season. Outside school holidays and peak months, rates are more attractive. From January to July or in September, renting a car is cheaper and the island is less crowded.
Choosing a plan with unlimited kilometers allows you to explore the island freely, without extra charges. Perfect for discovering Réunion at your own pace.
At Thrifty Réunion, you’ll find our economy vehicles at all of our agencies across the island:
Check out all of our car rental offers in Réunion to find the vehicle that best suits your needs.
What is the cheapest car to rent in Réunion?
The vehicles in our economy class are the most affordable in our fleet. Compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver, they offer the best value for exploring the island. You can also check out our city cars for an equally affordable alternative.
How can I get the best rate on a car rental in Réunion?
To get the lowest rate, we recommend that you:
Is unlimited mileage included with economy cars?
Yes. All of our economy vehicles come with unlimited mileage. You can explore the island at your own pace, with no odometer restrictions and no unpleasant surprises when you return the car.
Can you pay for an economy car rental with vacation checks?
Yes, Thrifty Réunion accepts ANCV digital vacation checks. They can cover all or part of your rental cost. See all accepted payment methods on our payment methods page.
Is an economy car enough to see all of Réunion?
For coastal routes and main roads, an economy car is perfectly suitable. However, if you plan to venture into the island’s highlands, on the winding roads of the Cilaos cirques, Mafate, or Salazie, an SUV or a compact car will be more suitable. Check out our guide on which car to choose in Réunion to narrow down your options.
Can you rent an economy car at the Saint-Denis airport?
Yes. Our economy cars are available at the island’s three Thrifty locations, including the Roland Garros Airport location, which is open 7 days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. It’s the perfect spot to hit the road as soon as you leave the terminal.
Can you add an additional driver to an economy car?
Yes, you can add an additional driver when you make your reservation. The additional driver must meet the same requirements as the primary driver: be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driver's license for at least 1 year.
Can young drivers rent an economy car?
Yes, with certain conditions. The minimum age is 21, and you must have held a driver’s license for at least one year. Specific conditions apply to drivers under 23. Visit our page dedicated to car rentals for young drivers to learn more about the terms and conditions.