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For those who frequently rent cars, joining a rental car loyalty program is a no-brainer. One such program worth considering is with SIXT, one of the world's leading car rental companies.
This German-based company, founded in 1912, operates in more than 105 countries with over 2,200 locations worldwide.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a deep dive into SIXT's Loyalty Program, covering everything from how to apply for membership, the benefits that come with each tier, how to upgrade your status, and much more.
By the end of this post, you'll have a thorough understanding of how to make the most out of your SIXT rentals.
Introduction
Overview of SIXT's Loyalty Program
SIXT, like most car rental companies, offer a loyalty program designed to reward frequent renters. As a member, every time you rent a car with SIXT, you earn status and enjoy a range of perks such as discounted rentals, free additional drivers, and car category upgrades.
The program has four tiers: Express, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond (invite-only).
The more you rent, the higher your status. Each tier comes with its unique set of benefits.
In addition, if you hold an elite status with other car rental companies such as Hertz, Europcar, or Avis, SIXT will match it, allowing you to enjoy their Gold or Platinum tier benefits.
You can also get a match by having status with some other travel partners, like Accor.
Benefits of the Loyalty Program Tiers
Each status level in the SIXT Loyalty Program offers a range of benefits. Even at the basic Express level, members enjoy special rates, the ability to reserve a car through the SIXT mobile app, and the chance to earn miles or points with hotel, airline, and specialty partners.
Gold members get even more perks like an up to a 10% discount on rentals, free additional drivers (US-only), and priority reservations. Platinum cardholders enjoy all these benefits and more, including a free upgrade if available and up to a 15% discount on rentals.
The highest level, Diamond, is by invitation only. In addition to enjoying all the benefits of the lower tiers, Diamond members receive guaranteed car upgrades, access to exclusive SIXT Diamond Lounges at select airports, and up to a 20% discount on rentals.
SIXT Express Status
How to Apply for SIXT Express Status
Becoming a SIXT Express member is straightforward and open to any SIXT customer. There are no minimum requirements, making it an excellent starting point for anyone new to the SIXT Advantage Circle program. Simply sign up for the program on SIXT's website, and you're all set.
As an Express member, your personal information is stored on your card, which reduces waiting time when renting a car.
Other benefits include special rates, the ability to collect miles or points with partner companies, and the convenience of reserving a car through the SIXT mobile app.
SIXT Gold Status
Upgrading to SIXT Gold Status
Upgrading to Gold status requires a little more commitment but brings with it a host of added benefits. U.S-based customers who rent at least three times per year qualify for the Gold status. For customers outside the U.S., five yearly rentals are needed to achieve this status.
Gold members enjoy all the benefits of the Express tier, plus up to a 10% discount on rentals, discounted SIXT limousine service, and no charge for additional drivers for all rentals in the U.S.
Plus, with priority reservations, Gold members can secure their vehicle up to 48 hours before the start of a rental.
SIXT Platinum Status
Upgrading to SIXT Platinum Status
Moving up to the Platinum tier requires at least ten rentals per year, though some countries require twenty. The increase in status comes with an array of additional perks, including a free upgrade if available, up to a 15% discount on car and truck rentals, and priority reservations up to 24 hours before the start of a rental.
It's also worth noting that if you hold elite status with other car rental companies (Hertz Five Star & President, Europcar Privilege Executive, Europcar Privilege Elite, Europcar Privilege Elite VIP, or Avis President's Club), SIXT will invite you to join the Platinum tier.
SIXT Diamond Status
Upgrading to SIXT Diamond Status
Diamond status is the pinnacle of the SIXT Loyalty Program. It's an invitation-only tier, extended to the most loyal SIXT customers. Alternatively, members of Lufthansa HON Circle, Emirates Platinum, or American Express Centurion Titan can also achieve Diamond status.
Diamond members enjoy the most exclusive privileges, including guaranteed upgrades to the next highest group, up to a 20% discount on car and truck rentals, and access to the exclusive SIXT Diamond Lounges at select airports. They also enjoy priority reservations up to 12 hours before the start of a rental.
Benefits of the Diamond Lounge
The SIXT Diamond Lounge is designed to provide comfort and convenience to its invite-only Diamond Status guests, offering a range of premium amenities. The lounges feature a comfortable seating environment equipped with first-class amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, power ports for charging devices, a snack bar offering refreshing beverages, and a library of reading materials.
The Diamond Lounge is not just about comfort; it also provides personalized VIP assistance from on-site rental agents. This means that visitors can enjoy priority access to a selection of premium vehicles, allowing them to get behind the wheel of a top-notch rental car without waiting in line. Moreover, the proximity of the Diamond Lounge to the vehicle pick-up area ensures a quicker check-in and check-out process.
Where can I find SIXT VIP Lounges in the US?
In the United States, the SIXT Diamond Lounge can be found at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Open 24 hours a day, this lounge is conveniently located right next to the main entrance of the branch, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Where can I find the SIXT VIP Lounges in Europe?
In Europe, the SIXT has several Diamond Lounge locations. One of these is in the Hotel Adlon Kempinski at the Brandenburg Gate, right next to the hotel's main entrance. The lounge operates from Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding holidays. Other European locations include various terminals at different airports, each with their own operating hours and specific amenities.
Loyalty Program Discounts and Promotions
Discounts for Gold, Platinum and Diamond Card Holders
The SIXT Loyalty Program provides discounts for its Gold, Platinum, and Diamond cardholders. Gold members enjoy up to a 10% discount on rentals, while Platinum members can save up to 15%. The biggest savings are reserved for invite-only Diamond members, who enjoy up to a 20% discount.
These discounts apply to both car and truck rentals, making SIXT a cost-effective choice for both personal and business travel. Furthermore, the program occasionally offers seasonal promotions and discounts, adding even more value to your SIXT rentals.
Free Upgrades for Platinum and Diamond Card Holders
One of the standout perks of the SIXT Loyalty Program is the opportunity for free car category upgrades. This perk is available for Platinum and Diamond cardholders, subject to availability.
Platinum members are eligible for a free upgrade if available, while Diamond members are guaranteed an upgrade to the next highest group, excluding long-term rentals, special cars, motorcycles, or trucks.
Summing Up
Final Thoughts on SIXT's Loyalty Program
SIXT's Loyalty Program offers a range of benefits and perks for frequent renters. With four tiers to cater to different levels of rental activity, members can enjoy discounted rentals, free additional drivers, car category upgrades, and more. The Express, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond tiers each come with their own set of advantages, with Diamond being the most exclusive and invitation-only level.
To join the program, simply sign up for an Express SIXT Card, which stores your personal information and allows for quick and easy car rentals. From there, you can work your way up through the tiers by renting more frequently, or if you already hold elite status with other car rental companies or certain travel programs, you can request a status match and start getting Gold or Platinum tier benefits right away.
The loyalty program also extends its benefits beyond car rentals, with partnerships with airlines, hotels, and specialty partners. Members can earn miles or points with partner programs, enjoy special discounts, and access exclusive privileges. This makes the SIXT Loyalty Program an attractive option for travelers looking to maximize their rewards and savings.
Whether you're a casual renter or a frequent traveller, joining the SIXT Loyalty Program can enhance your rental experience and provide added value to your trips.
