Shopping for a new car is a chance to find a vehicle to exactly match your tastes. This may mean zero-emissions, high-tech interior features, or a specific colour scheme. A new car is a significant investment, but there are usually numerous financing options, making it easier than you think. There are also numerous benefits to buying new. You get a manufacturer’s warranty, which can last up to ten years. You will also have the peace of mind of knowing that your car hasn’t missed a service or been poorly maintained by a previous owner.
Paying for your new car.
There are different ways to pay for your new car. Although paying for a car upfront is expensive, it will work out much cheaper to buy this way if you plan on keeping it long-term. It may be convenient to lease a car if you prefer having it serviced by a main dealer. There are many companies that can offer finance deals, and these can be structured in different ways. You should also factor in ongoing costs such as fuel, tax, insurance, servicing and depreciation. A reputable dealer such as the car yard at Port Macquarie can advise you on your finance options.
Which car should I buy?
Even if you think you know what kind of car you want, you should consider your needs carefully. You may discover that the car you want and the car you need aren’t the same. Will you be transporting lots of children and luggage? Do you want something economical on a long journey? Are you interested in the low running costs of the latest hybrids? Many buyers ultimately conclude that ease of driving, seat comfort and overall value for money are the key considerations when purchasing a new car. Your needs may well differ if you’re looking at luxury cars, of course.
Servicing and maintenance.
Your new car will need a service every year. You don’t necessarily have to take your car to the dealer who supplied it to maintain the warranty. You may prefer to take your car to an independent garage or specialist who you know.
Depreciation.
Some cars depreciate more slowly than others. Luxury cars tend to depreciate quickest, but you’ll lose less money on a popular mainstream model. You can stave off some depreciation by buying a car with a popular colour such as silver or black. You can also help yourself by buying a car with active safety technology.
Test drive before buying your new car.
Once you have a shortlist of models, you should spend time behind the wheel to decide which one is right for you. Some brands even offer 24-hour or weekend-long test drives. A car that looks good on paper might not necessarily feel good in practice. You may simply not like the way it feels. Another good way of getting a feel for a car before taking it for a drive is to do a little research and read in-depth reviews, which will give you details of a car’s safety, fuel economy, space and handling.
