Don’t Let the Wrong Rental Ruin Your Madeira Trip
Madeira’s incredible landscape – dramatic coastlines, steep mountain roads, and winding village streets – makes it one of Europe’s most stunning driving destinations. That’s why knowing what type of car to rent in Madeira is more important than ever.
If you’re unsure which car suits your trip, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through the key factors to consider and introduce you to the car categories offered by MadPoint Rent a Car, one of Madeira’s top-rated local rental companies.
What Type of Car to Rent in Madeira? It Depends on 5 Key Factors
Before we get into specific car categories, think about the following:
1. Where Are You Going?
- City-focused travel (like staying in Funchal): Small, compact cars are best.
- Mountain or off-the-beaten-path trips: You’ll want more power and possibly higher clearance.
2. How Many People Are You Traveling With?
- Solo or duo = economy or compact
- Family of 3–4 = comfort category
- Group of 5+ = 7-seater or van
3. Are You Comfortable Driving a Manual?
- Madeira has steep roads and sharp curves. If you’re unsure about handling a manual, go automatic – it’s worth the peace of mind.
4. How Much Luggage Do You Have?
- Economy cars have small trunks. If you’ve got bulky gear or suitcases, go up a category.
5. What’s Your Budget?
- Economy cars start at €10/day
- Premium and SUVs can go up to €70+/day
- We offer great value in each range
MadPoint’s Rental Car Categories: Find the Right Fit
Let’s break down what type of car to rent in Madeira, and who it’s best suited for:
1. Economy Cars – Best for Budget & Urban Travel
Example: Fiat Panda (Group B)
From: €10/day
Transmission: Manual
Seats: 5 | Compact trunk
Perfect if you:
- Are traveling solo or as a couple
- Plan to stay mostly in Funchal
- Want the cheapest, most fuel-efficient option
Why choose it?
Economy cars are ideal for tight city streets and limited parking spaces. They’re not great for heavy luggage or steep, long drives – but excellent for short trips.
2. Compact Cars – Affordable, with Extra Space
Examples: Kia Rio, Mitsubishi Colt (Group D)
From: €20/day
Transmission: Manual
Perfect if you:
- Want a step up from economy
- Need a little more space
- Plan to explore nearby areas
Why choose it?
Compact cars offer better comfort and handling than smaller vehicles, making them more versatile without a big price jump.
3. Automatic Cars – Stress-Free Driving
Examples: Kia Picanto (Group B Auto), Skoda Fabia (Group D Auto)
From: €20–€30/day
Transmission: Automatic
Perfect if you:
- Are unfamiliar with manual
- Want easy driving on Madeira’s hills
- Prioritize comfort and convenience
Why choose it?
Madeira’s steep roads and frequent stop-start conditions make automatic cars extremely popular among tourists.
4. Comfort Category – Ideal for Families & Longer Drives
Examples: VW T-Cross, Kia Stonic (Group E Comfort)
From: €30/day
Transmission: Manual
Perfect if you:
- Have 3–4 people and luggage
- Want better performance and suspension
- Plan longer road trips
Why choose it?
These cars offer higher ground clearance and better handling – helpful in rural areas or mountain drives.
5. Automatic Comfort – Space Meets Simplicity
Examples: Mitsubishi ASX, Skoda Kamiq (Group E Auto)
From: €30–€40/day
Transmission: Automatic
Perfect if you:
- Want an SUV feel without the price
- Need more room for luggage or passengers
- Prefer automatic over manual
Why choose it?
A favorite for families and road trippers who don’t want to compromise on space or transmission type.
6. Premium Cars – High-End Style & Performance
Examples: Audi A3 Sportback, VW Taigo
From: €50–€55/day
Transmission: Manual or Automatic
Perfect if you:
- Are traveling for business or a special occasion
- Want luxury, comfort, and design
- Don’t mind spending a bit more
Why choose it?
Great for long drives with a touch of class. These vehicles are equipped with advanced features and modern aesthetics.
7. 7-Seater Vehicles – Best for Groups & Large Families
Examples: Dacia Jogger, Renault Grand Scenic
From: €55–€70/day
Transmission: Manual
Perfect if you:
- Travel in a group of 5–7
- Need extra luggage space
- Are planning day trips around the island
Why choose it?
Space and flexibility make these ideal for families, especially when visiting remote areas with no public transport.
8. Hybrid & Plug-in – Drive Green
Example: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Plug-in Hybrid
From: €60/day
Transmission: Automatic
Perfect if you:
- Care about eco-friendly travel
- Plan to drive a lot (better fuel economy)
- Want a modern vehicle with top features
Why choose it?
Madeira’s terrain can increase fuel use. Hybrids offer savings and sustainability without sacrificing performance.
9. Elite Auto – Maximum Comfort & Prestige
Example: Mercedes GLA
From: €70/day
Transmission: Automatic
Perfect if you:
- Want the best driving experience possible
- Are celebrating or impressing clients
- Prefer powerful engines and top interiors
Why choose it?
This is the ultimate driving category. It’s more than a car – it’s part of the experience.
💡 Quick Comparison: What Type of Car to Rent in Madeira Based on Travel Style
| Travel Style | Recommended Car Type | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Solo or Couple on a Budget | Small manual car | Economy (Fiat Panda) |
| City Explorer | Compact hatchback | Compact (Kia Rio) |
| Easy Driving in Hilly Areas | Automatic compact | Auto (Picanto/Fabia) |
| Family Vacation | Spacious, comfortable SUV-style | Comfort / Auto Comfort |
| Group Travel | 7-seater with luggage space | Dacia Jogger, Grand Scenic |
| Business Trip or Luxury Tour | Stylish, high-end vehicle | Premium / Elite Auto |
| Eco-Conscious Traveler | Hybrid plug-in SUV | Mitsubishi Eclipse |
✅ Why Rent from MadPoint in Madeira?
We aren’t just about great prices – we offer a full package:
- Wide Vehicle Selection across all categories
- Transparent Pricing with no hidden fees
- Unlimited Mileage so you can explore the island fully
- Plus Insurance Options for peace of mind
- Local Support whenever you need it
Plus, we are a local Madeira company – meaning better support, faster service, and island-specific expertise.
Conclusion: The Right Car Makes All the Difference
Still unsure what type of car to rent in Madeira? Here’s the bottom line:
- Want cheap and simple? Go economy or compact.
- Need more comfort or an automatic? Choose comfort or auto comfort.
- Traveling with a group or family? Book a 7-seater.
- Prefer luxury or eco-conscious driving? Go premium, elite, or hybrid.
Whichever car you choose, knowing what type of car to rent in Madeira makes all the difference. We have a category that fits your needs and your journey. Book early, drive smart, and enjoy everything this stunning island has to offer – at your own pace.
