Can I change the car I rented. The car we booked and paid for last year was not available so we were offered a pickup Ute otherwise wait in the line for up to 5 hrs.

You can always change with a fee for an upgrade. Better yet, you can deny the pick up given to you and told them to give you something else in the same category you initially rented since inventory changes daily. You're not required or expected to accept what they initially offer. Budget has the obligation to give you a similar car in the same category or upgrade you for free or refund you. Hope that helps.

This happened to me too but in less than one hour I was given a very nice upgrade at no additional charge. Very Satisfied