For both car enthusiasts and casual drivers, this time of year heralds the annual unveiling of new makes and models boasting exciting new features and compelling amenities.

And Avis welcomes one and all to try out the new 2012 model-year vehicles, whether while travelling or at a local market Avis location close to home.

“At Avis, we know that many of our customers view the opportunity to try out an exciting new model as more than just temporary ground transportation during a trip,” said Tom Gartland, president, North America, for Avis Budget Group.

“For those who truly like to enjoy the ride, our 2012 fleet includes a broad range of vehicles - from compact to full-size as well as luxury and specialty wheels for those needing more space or looking to drive a ‘cool car’.

“We welcome the new vehicles to our fleet and look forward to serving business and leisure travellers alike.”

The Avis 2012 line-up features quality GM vehicles as well as makes and models from other automobile manufacturers, including:

BMW - The BMW X3 and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles are the newest addition to Avis Cool Cars, a collection of fun-to-drive vehicles.

The X3 features a 240-horsepower 3.0-liter, in-line 6-cylinder engine and xDrive all-wheel-drive. The X5 Sports Activity Vehicle boasts a 300-horsepower 3.0-liter, in-line 6-cylinder engine and xDrive, all-wheel-drive.

Chevrolet - The all-new Chevrolet Sonic, named a 2011 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, is the latest new car model to join the Avis fleet.

The vehicle features a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, a fuel efficiency rating of 35 miles per gallon (highway) and seating for five. The Sonic sedan and hatchback are available for rent at Avis.

Infiniti - The Infiniti QX56 features a 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine. The SUV also has a heated steering wheel, heated front seats and tri-zone automatic temperature control system so that the driver, front passenger and rear passengers enjoy their own climate controls.

Also available in the Avis fleet are the 2012 FX35 SUV which sports a new grille and has a 303-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, and the Infiniti M37 sedan, powered by a 330-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine.

Mazda - The Mazda5, with seating for six passengers spread out among three rows for maximum elbowroom, features rear doors for easy entry and exit and a 157-horsepower, 2.5-liter engine. The Mazda6 sedan features an in-dash six-disc CD/MP3 compatible changer with six speakers and a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter engine. The five-passenger CX-7 and the seven-passenger CX-9 crossover SUVs are also included in the 2012 Avis fleet.

Volkswagen - The 2012 Passat, awarded with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick rating for 2011, features a 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, which is being offered in the Passat for the first time.