iLending vs Upstart

iLending, founded in 2006, is a company based in Englewood, Colorado, specializing in auto loan refinancing. Originally known as Fleet Financial, the company rebranded to iLendingDirect and shifted their focus to helping consumers lower their auto loan payments by connecting them with the best lenders and rates. With a team of over 250 employees, iLending has expanded to meet the increasing demand for auto loan refinancing services. They aim to streamline the refinancing process through online applications and dedicated loan consultants, focusing on transparency and customer service throughout the refinancing journey. Keep in mind that iLending doesn't disclose minimum credit score requirements, so it's advisable to check directly with them to determine if you pre-qualify. They maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and have been recently recognized as the top Auto Refinance Company by LendingTree for Customer Satisfaction, among their earned accolades. This demonstrates their commitment to ethical business practices and exceptional customer experiences, supported by stellar online customer reviews.

Upstart, founded in 2012, is an online lender headquartered in San Mateo, California. The company specializes in auto loan refinancing and leverages AI technology to evaluate borrowers beyond traditional credit scores. This approach considers factors such as income, education, and employment history, making it more accessible for individuals with thin or poor credit profiles. Upstart's services are online, offering a convenient and streamlined application process. Key features include flexible loan terms ranging from 24 to 84 months, loan amounts between $3,000 and $60,000, and competitive APRs starting at 5.61% but varying by state. The platform does not charge upfront fees, prepayment penalties, or origination fees unless specific conditions like repossession or late payments occur. One of Upstart's unique aspects is their ability to prequalify borrowers without impacting their credit scores. However, the platform does not offer purchase loans for new or used cars or allow co-borrowers or co-signers. Despite these limitations, Upstart's innovative underwriting process has garnered positive feedback for their inclusivity and efficiency. Upstart has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2015 and holds a high Trustpilot score, indicating intense customer satisfaction. Upstart's AI-driven approach and flexible terms make them a compelling option worth exploring further for those seeking to refinance their auto loans.