Car Rental: Ford Ka, VW Up, Ford Fiesta opinions wanted

First thing to say is you may not get the exact car you choose; those are just used as examples of size. The VW Up is known for feeling roomier than other cars of its type but it’s still small: https://www.carwow.co.uk/blog/volkswagen-up-dimensions-guide-052

Front headroom: 993mm
Front legroom: 1009mm

Secondly, for someone of your height I wouldn’t consider going smaller than a Fiesta. I’m 5’6” and drive a Fiesta and it feels just the right size for me.

Thanks for the insight. Seems there is a 116 mm difference between the Up and the Fiesta. That works out to a bit more than 4 inches. That's a major difference.

If I were you I'd double-check on the insurance that comes with your credit card. Usually it doesn't cover injury to you or anyone else in the vehicle OR any damage to property or injury to people outside of the vehicle. So, if a sheep runs across the road (odds are good) and you swerve into someone else's car (or whatever), you're liable. The other thing (and you'll want to check with the rental company you're using) is that, when you decline the insurance the rental company offers because you have your own insurance, the hold that's placed on your credit card when you pickup the car is astronomical (in Ireland I've seen it as high as the equivalent of about $5,000). Again, I'd check with the rental company.

I'm 167 cm and a Ford KA is just right for me - at least at home, where I don't drive a lot. On a vacation I think I would prefer a Ford Fiesta.

Do you have anyone in the backseat? I've found even the smallest cars typically have comfortable seating for the front passengers. Not so much for anyone in the backseat if the front is adjusted all the way back. I think you're okay in any car, which is good because the car they say is simply an example, not really reserving that car. If you get in the car, and it doesn't work, go back to the rental desk and get something different.

I'd be more concerned with hiding your luggage. I like either a trunk or covered space so nothing is visible through the windows while you're parked. Trunk space is pretty limited in every European car I've driven so far.

I'm planning on using card insurance too. Ireland is somewhat limited on insurance choices so it won't be my normal plan. It's always a good idea to know your responsibilities if you have an accident. Reading your insurance document carefully before the trip is important. I had my first accident last June in France and forgot to take photos when I returned the car; I always take photos to prove I had no damage but figured I didn't need to since I had damage. Fortunately, they accepted a diagram I made of the visible damage to the car and paid the claim.

Ok,

I have reserved a Ford Fiesta (or equal) for two weeks. My credit card customer service rep told me that Ireland is not excluded in their insurance and also sent me a document that I am to present to the counter help when I pick up my car.

I have a US drivers license, does this negate the need for an International Driving Permit? I did not need one years ago in France, Belgium, Germany but sometimes things change.

Pretty sure you should have had an IDP in Belgium. An IDP is never required to rent a car, it is required if the police stop you. You need to understand this difference because the police won’t take too kindly if you don’t have one.

You didn't need one in Germany on your last trip.

You did need one in France - you were lucky (and apparently drove safely).

IDP is a translation of your drivers license, it isn't needed when you drive in English speaking countries. I've had one whenever I'm driving in non-English speaking countries but haven't yet had to actually show it. It's cheap, however, so better to have it and not be asked for it.