FLEET drivers should consider renting their chosen company cars before signing up for a long-term contract to avoid problems and potential early terminations, according to ARVAL PHH.

It says fleet managers offering short-term leasing or rental options to staff would give them a more effective way of picking the best car.

As drivers downsize to smaller vehicles, or choose diesels instead of petrol engines to lower their tax liability under the new carbon dioxide-based company car tax regime, this is becoming more important.

Vincent St Claire, director of rentals and Mini Lease at ARVAL PHH, said: 'A lot of fleet drivers, especially executives, will have stayed with the same type of car for years. Now, because of the new tax system, they may have to change or their tax bill could go through the roof. However, the last thing drivers want is to be stuck in a three- or four-year lease on a car that is not to their liking or not as easy to drive.

'That is why fleet managers must ask their fleet management or rental company what it offers in terms of short-term vehicles.'