What does standard mean in car rental?

Okay, so you're wondering what "standard" means when you're renting a car? I've been there, staring at all the options online, like, "What even is a standard car?!" It can be confusing, right?

Basically, think "Goldilocks." Not too big, not too small... just right. It's your typical mid-size sedan. Bigger than those cramped compact cars (I rented one once for a road trip – never again! My knees were practically in my chin!), but not as big as a full-size boat. You know, the kind your grandpa might drive. A standard car fits five people comfortably, and you'll have decent trunk space for luggage. Enough for a family vacation, probably, unless you're like my sister who overpacks like she's moving across the country. Then, well, you might need a van! ????

I remember renting a "standard" car in Florida last year – it was a Toyota Camry, I think. It was perfect for zipping around, easy to park, good on gas. Not luxurious or anything, but totally fine for getting from point A to point B. That's the beauty of a standard car, really. It's just... practical. And sometimes, that's all you need, you know? It gets the job done.