Car rental vs. buy-back: Key differences
| Criteria | Traditional car rental | Peugeot & DS buy-back |
|---|
| Vehicle | Reserved vehicle category, model subject to availability | Brand-new car, selected model |
| Rental duration | Short-term | From 15 days to 6 months (12 months for special conditions) |
| Mileage | According to the rental company's terms | Unlimited |
| Insurance | Depending on the selected package | Comprehensive insurance with zero deductible |
| Roadside assistance | Depending on the contract; additional fees may apply | Included 24/7 |
| Additional drivers | Additional fees payable at the rental counter | No additional fees for eligible drivers |
| Young drivers | Restrictions and additional fees payable at the rental counter | No young driver surcharge for eligible drivers |
| Maximum age | Depends on the rental company | No maximum age limit |
| Authorized countries | Depends on the rental company and vehicle category | More than 33 countries |
| Pick-up and drop-off | Wide selection of rental locations | 21 locations across 7 countries |
| Last-minute bookings | Possible up to 48 hours before pick-up | Allow at least 15 days, depending on the delivery location |
Key takeaway: To compare prices accurately, consider the total cost of your trip, including insurance, additional drivers, potential one-way fees and other surcharges.
When should you choose a traditional car rental in Europe?
Traditional car rental is particularly suitable for travellers who:
- Are travelling for a few days or a few weeks.
- Want to make a last-minute booking.
- Need to pick up a vehicle in a specific city or airport.
- Are looking for a flexible option for a business trip or getaway.
- Prefer booking a vehicle category rather than a specific model.
EuropAuto offers car rental solutions through several international partners, including Avis, Europcar and Hertz.
Why choose a buy-back program for an extended stay in Europe?
The buy-back program is a particularly attractive option for Canadians planning to travel for several weeks or months in Europe.
It allows you to drive a brand-new Peugeot or DS Automobiles vehicle, with numerous benefits included:
- Unlimited mileage to explore Europe at your own pace.
- Comprehensive insurance with zero deductible.
- 24/7 roadside assistance.
- Additional drivers at no extra charge, subject to eligibility requirements.
- No young driver surcharge for eligible drivers.
- No maximum age limit.
- Upfront pricing with no unpleasant surprises.
- Freedom to travel across multiple European countries, subject to the program's authorized-country list.
The buy-back program is particularly suitable for extended stays in France, family vacations and road trips across several European countries.
How many days does it take for a buy-back program to become worthwhile?
There is no fixed number of days after which a buy-back program is always less expensive than a traditional car rental.
It can be worthwhile to compare both options for stays of two weeks or more. For trips of 10 days or longer, a comparison can be particularly relevant, especially if you plan to pick up your vehicle in one country and return it in another.
The final cost depends on several factors, including the vehicle model, travel dates, pick-up and drop-off countries, insurance coverage and included fees.
For example, a traveller planning a 20-day trip through France, Germany and Austria who wants comprehensive insurance, multiple drivers and unlimited mileage may find the buy-back program more cost-effective than a traditional rental with additional options.
The best approach is to compare two equivalent quotes.
What should you check before booking?
Before choosing your vehicle, consider the following:
- Trip duration: Some options become more cost-effective as the length of your stay increases.
- Total cost: Compare insurance coverage, deductibles and potential additional fees.
- Countries visited: Make sure your itinerary is permitted.
- Pick-up and drop-off locations: Not all locations offer the same services.
- Vehicle type: Consider the number of passengers, luggage capacity and transmission type.
- Eligibility requirements: The buy-back program is subject to specific conditions, particularly regarding residency and length of stay.
Frequently asked questions about car rental and buy-back programs in Europe
Is a buy-back program cheaper than a traditional car rental?
A buy-back program can be more cost-effective, particularly for extended stays. However, the price depends on several factors. It is important to compare the total cost of both options with equivalent insurance coverage and services.
Can I drive a brand-new car for several months in France?
Yes. The buy-back program allows eligible travellers to drive a brand-new Peugeot or DS Automobiles vehicle for up to 6 months (12 months under a special program) in France or in any of the six other countries where the program is available.
Is insurance included in the buy-back program?
Yes. The program includes comprehensive insurance with zero deductible, subject to the coverage terms and exclusions specified in the contract. Roadside assistance is also included.
Can I travel through several European countries with a buy-back vehicle?
Yes. You can drive through 33 authorized European countries. However, it is important to check the list of permitted countries and any applicable restrictions before departure.
Is the buy-back program available to travellers over 70?
Yes. There is no maximum age limit, provided you meet the program's eligibility requirements, including those relating to your driver's licence.
Can I book an automatic vehicle through the buy-back program?
Yes. EuropAuto offers several Peugeot and DS Automobiles models with automatic transmissions, subject to vehicle availability at the time of booking.
Can I pick up my car in one country and return it in another?
Yes. The buy-back program allows international one-way trips between 7 European countries , subject to available pick-up and drop-off locations.
When requesting an online quote, simply select your pick-up and drop-off locations. The total price displayed includes all applicable fees, including any international one-way fees. There are no additional fees to pay upon arrival.
Why compare both options with EuropAuto?
Specializing in mobility solutions for Canadian travellers, EuropAuto offers both traditional car rentals and Peugeot and DS Automobiles buy-back programs in Europe.
Our travel advisors can help you compare your options based on the length of your stay, itinerary, insurance needs and budget.
Planning a trip to Europe? Compare both options and choose the one that will let you travel with peace of mind.
Explore our Peugeot and DS Automobiles vehicles or request a personalized quote for your next trip.
Last updated: October 28, 2026