Munich-based international car rental company SIXT is expanding to the Canadian market, with Vancouver the site of its first Canadian branch, soon to be followed by Toronto.

According to a company statement, SIXT will bring “a unique, premium experience to car rentals in Canada with a higher percentage of premium and lower mileage vehicles, including BMWs and Mercedes-Benz vehicles."

Canadian branches will soon offer digital counter bypass, which allows customers to not only bypass the counter, but also pre-select the vehice they want to reserve within two hours of pick-up.

The brand's first Canadian branch will be located in downtown Vancouver's Library Square. Following Vancouver, SIXT will soon open in Toronto, encompassing the country's two largest car rental destinations.

The Canadian expansion follows the opening of several new locations across the US including Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) and more. Travellers can now find SIXT at 36 U.S. airport markets, and the brand plans to expand to the top 50 markets.

“Expanding into Canada is a huge step for our business, and we are excited to bring the premium SIXT experience to our northern neighbours," said Thomas C. Kennedy, President of SIXT North America.

“Vancouver is a gateway to the world-famous Whistler ski resort and an important leisure and commercial port city bringing both corporate and leisure travellers year-round. Toronto is a financial and commercial hub with strong seasonal traffic enjoying the endless Canadian summers and outdoor activities.”

David Wong is Regional Vice President Canada for SIXT, bringing 30 years of experience working in the rental market in Canada.

“SIXT's first Canadian branch office will be located in one of Vancouver’s most impressive buildings, and our fleet is unique and impressive,” Wong said. “Our customers will appreciate the high-quality fleet of new premium sedans and SUVs, including various BMW models and the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 SUV with seating for up to 7 passengers.”