Insurance more expensive than rental, car picked up at night it was dirty and staff useless

Very annoying up-selling of insurances and other services by Gold Car staff at Bordeaux airport.

Waited for a long time because the car was not on the system at the desk despite me having an email confirmation. Not even sure who the car was supplied by - Rhodium, Ace or Gold Cars? Waited for an hour for this to be rectified with a preganant girlfriend. Lady at the pick up desk was rude and unhelpful, I was told I was 'lucky you dont have to wait longer'. Aggressive attempts to sell insurance add ons. Eventually collected the car which was dented, scratched and dirty inside and out. Was told 'you are lucky its scratched because then its less likely you'll be charged for scratches that you cant even see when you bring it back'! In summary, a poor start to our holiday. Won't be using again.

Easyrentcars seemed to work well.

The wait to pick up the car was rediculously long, especially in a warm airport with 2 young children. Counter staff were quite rude and once we realised car was far too small, we weren't able to upgrade. Wait for return was also quite lengthy.

Booking was smooth and easy to include all waivers.

We have used several times. Due to this and our yearly car hire excess insurance, we no longer get the hard sell for own car rentals unnecessary insurance which we have found stressful with other companies. The car was very clean and in excellent condition.

Price drop protector was really good - we did pay less than initial booking price. Would definitely use again.

The insurance options and fuel refill terms were complex. When I booked I didn't realise a diesel rental car has a tax in France