Subaru and Isuzu importers IM Group are the latest to trial a daily rental scheme that also serve as an extended test drive.

Seven dealerships have been appointed for the six-month pilot, which, if successful, will be extended to more than 20 sites. Models include Subaru Legacy, Outback, Forester and selected Imprezas, and all Isuzu Rodeo pick-ups. Charges vary, depending on location.

The range of vehicles offered means customers may in some cases treat the rental as an opportunity to give their chosen model a comprehensive test drive, says Harvey France, national used car and fleet sales manager for IM Group. He adds: “I am sure some dealers will reimburse the rental costs should the customer go ahead and purchase the same model.”

The dealerships involved are Crossroads Garage of Tredington, GMD Subaru in County Durham, Keith Price in Abergavenny, Ridings & Co of Preston, S&S Services in Ayr, Triangle in Chesterfield and Haxbys in Plymouth.

Last year, Volvo rolled out a prestige car hire scheme to its 150-strong dealership network following a nine-month pilot which recorded 8,000 days of rentals.