The Hertz Corporation said it has become the first U.S. car rental company to purchase vehicles from Porsche, and will be the first major car rental company in the U.S. to rent Porsche sports cars. Through its relationship with Porsche Cars North America, Inc. and Porsche Motorsport North America, Inc., Hertz is enabling consumers in select markets to rent a limited number of Panamera sport sedans as part of the Hertz Prestige Collection, a line of high-end cars which transform an ordinary business or leisure trip into an extraordinary journey.

"Hertz revolutionized the industry when we introduced make and model reservable cars through our Prestige Collection and we're now excited to be the first major rental car company in the U.S. to rent Porsche sports cars," said Mark Frissora, Hertz chairman and CEO. "With the introduction of Porsche vehicles to the U.S. car rental industry, we're once again setting the bar in offering top-performing luxury cars and we're confident the Porsche Panamera will provide a unique driving experience for customers who are passionate about high-end performance vehicles."

The Porsche Panamera sports sedan provides another rental option for consumers looking for a different travel experience. The Panamera offers sports car technology for four, including comfort and everyday practicality without compromise. In addition to the introduction of the Panamera, Hertz and Porsche Motorsport North America have agreed that Hertz will be named an official sponsor of the 2012 Porsche IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge by Yokohama and a sponsor of the 2012 JDX Racing Team.  As part of the sponsorship, Hertz will be integrated into the GT3 Cup Challenge and will be displayed prominently on all vehicles, while the 2012 JDX Racing Porsche GTC car will compete throughout 2012 in the American Le Mans Series.

The Porsche Panamera is a sports sedan with a manufacturer's suggested retail price starting at $75,850. Beginning this month, Hertz customers in select California, Florida and Nevada markets can rent this vehicle with rates starting at $250 per weekend day.