Compare prices and check availability for automatic car hire at Perth Airport to find the right size for your group and budget. Book early for summer and holiday periods.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars reduce driver workload on unfamiliar roads. They suit families, groups and drivers who prefer a relaxed drive.
At Perth Airport, a short, easy driving routine matters because terminals sit close together and kerbside rules are strict. Booking an automatic removes gear-change stress after a long flight.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
Perth Airport rental fleets typically include compact hatchbacks, medium sedans, compact SUVs, 7 Seater people carriers, and larger SUVs. Expect hybrid options from some suppliers.
Choose by luggage and passenger count. For four adults and two medium suitcases, a medium SUV or large sedan works best. For groups of six to eight, select an 8 Seater or 7 Seater people carrier.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of driving | Simple in traffic and near terminals | More control on hills and spirited driving |
| Fuel efficiency | Often similar for modern models | Sometimes marginally better in older cars |
| Availability at Perth Airport | High; many fleets supplied | Less common in smaller classes |
| Best for | Families, visitors, urban driving | Drivers who prefer manual control |
Main takeaway. Automatic cars are widely available at Perth and suit most travellers seeking comfort and ease.
Driving an Automatic for the First Time
Start with a quick check before you set off. Familiarise yourself with the gear selector positions, handbrake, and the engine stop/start behaviour.
- Practice in the airport car park or a quiet side street for five minutes.
- Use the brake when changing from Park to Drive. Confirm the car is stationary.
- Expect slower kick-down when fully loaded; allow gentle throttle inputs for smooth acceleration.
Automatic models vary by make. Ask the rental counter for a brief demo if you are unsure.
Picking Up and Returning Your Rental Car
Collection at Perth Airport is concentrated around the short-term car parks and dedicated car-hire areas. Follow the indications for the car-hire collection point when you exit arrivals.
Perth Airport runs free shuttle services between long-term car parks and terminals. Allow 10 to 20 minutes extra if you use long-term parking because shuttle wait times vary.
Kerbside rules are enforced. Express pick-up zones at T3 and T4 allow only short stays, and timed enforcement is in place to reduce congestion. Plan luggage transfer accordingly to avoid fines.
| Extra | Typical Cost | Can It Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| Airport location fee | Varies by supplier, sometimes a daily charge | Sometimes, by booking off-airport with shuttle |
| Additional driver | A few dollars per day | Yes, limit to one driver if possible |
| Young driver surcharge | Higher daily surcharge for under 25s | Partly, by hiring older drivers or different companies |
| Fuel fill options | Premium pre-purchase is costly | No, return full to avoid fees |
Main takeaway. Inspect the rental agreement and confirm which extras are optional before you pay at the desk.
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Costs depend on vehicle size, season and how far in advance you book. Typical weekend rates start from modest city-hire prices for compacts and rise for SUVs and 7 Seaters.
Perth sees strong demand in the Australian summer school holidays and around major events. Expect higher rates across December and January. Book early for summer to secure a fair price.
Tip. Midweek rentals in shoulder seasons often offer the best value. Compare supplier rates and check whether airport collection adds an extra daily fee.
Final Advice Before You Book Your Automatic Car
Plan vehicle size, then compare total price including airport fees, extra drivers and fuel rules. Confirm pickup details and the exact collection point at Perth Airport.
Consider off-airport suppliers if you are budget conscious. Off-airport companies often run a regular shuttle. Factor shuttle transfer time into your schedule.
Watch local traffic access. The main entrance to the airport uses Airport Drive and Tonkin Highway. Roadworks or peak-hour congestion can add 10 to 30 minutes to journeys to or from the city. Allow spare time when returning your car.
Popular pickup locations
Common pickup points across Australia where travellers frequently hire automatic cars.
– Perth Airport — convenient terminal collection and varied fleet choices
– Sydney Kingsford Smith — primary international hub with large rental desks
– Melbourne Tullamarine — extensive options and easy freeway access
– Brisbane Airport — strong fleet selection for family trips
– Adelaide Airport — compact and affordable city options available
– Gold Coast — popular for holidaymakers and beachside access
– Cairns — gateway for reef and tropical region driving trips
– Hobart — good for short-stay rentals and Tasmanian road trips
– Darwin — ideal for northern routes and national park access
– Alice Springs — common pick-up for Red Centre road trips
Local tips and links
Kerbside stays at Perth Airport are monitored and time-limited. Expect strict enforcement in express pick-up areas at busy times.
Airport Drive is the primary terminal access road and links to Tonkin Highway. This route can see peak delays during the morning and late afternoon commuter periods. Allow extra time when returning vehicles.
Official Perth Airport car-hire information and collection instructions are available on the airport website. For road and traffic guidance around the airport, consult Main Roads Western Australia.
Perth Airport car hire information
Frequently asked questions — Perth Airport automatic hire
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Where do I collect an automatic hire car at Perth Airport?
Follow arrival signs to the car-hire collection area near the short-term car parks. Counters will confirm your exact collection point.
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Is there a shuttle from long-term parking to the terminals?
Yes. Perth Airport operates a free shuttle between long-term car parks and the terminals. Allow 10 to 20 minutes extra for shuttle transfer.
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Are express pick-up zones enforced at Perth Airport?
Yes. Express pick-up areas at certain terminals have strict time limits to reduce congestion. Check the terminal signage before stopping.
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Should I book an automatic in advance for summer?
Yes. Summer and school holidays increase demand. Book early to secure the vehicle class you need.
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Can I pick up off-airport and get a shuttle?
Many off-airport suppliers run a shuttle. Factor shuttle timing into arrival plans and return schedules.
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Are 7 Seater and 8 Seater automatics available?
Yes. Larger people carriers and SUVs are available but book early as they are less common.
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Do rental agreements include airport fees?
Some do and some do not. Confirm whether an airport location fee or landside access charge applies to your booking.
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What if I need an infant or child seat?
Most suppliers offer child seats for a daily fee. Reserve these when booking to guarantee availability.
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How long should I allow to return the car at peak times?
Allow an extra 30 minutes for return during morning or late afternoon peak hours. Roadworks and terminal traffic can add time.
