Replacing Your Car? How To Narrow Down Your Options

If you took a second to search online for a new car, you’d be greeted by hundreds of results. It’s brilliant for consumers to have a choice but how do you go about narrowing down the options to find ‘the one?’ In this guide, we’ll explore some essential factors to consider before you sign on the dotted line. 

Image credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/positive-gorgeous-agent-sharing-contract-with-client-in-car-salon-4173194/

Your budget

Unless you have an unlimited amount of money to spend on your new vehicle, it’s an excellent idea to start your search with a budget in mind. The cost of cars varies hugely depending on the make and model, age, mileage, spec and condition. Figure out how much you want to spend and how you’re going to pay for your car. Finance options are increasingly popular and they offer an affordable alternative to purchasing a vehicle outright. You can choose from used car finance or finance for new cars. If you are buying a car outright, filter online results according to your budget and ask dealers to show you cars up to a certain price if you visit showrooms. If you’re considering finance, work out how much you can afford to spend per month. You may be able to reduce payments by putting a deposit down. 

Your lifestyle and requirements

We use cars for a range of purposes and there are vehicles to suit different types of lifestyles. From sleek, sporty numbers for drivers that enjoy hitting the open roads at the weekend to functional, spacious family cars, it’s always advantageous to think about how you plan to use the car, how much space you need and the types of features that will benefit you. If you have pets, you enjoy outdoor sports, you have kids or you use your vehicle for business purposes, space is essential and vehicles like MPVs, SUVs, 4X4s and estate cars may appeal. If you drive in the city, compact cars are ideal. 

Fuel types

Electric and hybrid cars have become increasingly popular in recent years. As manufacturers look to support global and national initiatives to lower emissions, the range of vehicles is expanding year on year. Some drivers are ready to switch to greener vehicles while others still have a preference for petrol cars. Consider the pros and cons of all options before you decide which car to buy or hire next. Eco-friendly vehicles are beneficial for the environment but they also cost a lot less to run. 

Test drives

Glossy brochures and online galleries can give you an idea of what to expect when you see a new or used car in the flesh but you can’t really get a feel for a vehicle or learn about the driving experience without going for a test drive. Once you have a shortlist, arrange test drives and use the time behind the wheel to gauge how you feel about the leading contenders. It’s essential that you feel comfortable as well as being impressed by performance and aesthetics. 

Picture from https://pixabay.com/photos/auto-vehicle-steering-wheel-seat-3209511/

There are thousands of cars available to buy. If you’re wondering where to begin on the search for your next vehicle, take these tips on board. 

Flush the Fashion

Editor of Flush the Fashion and Flush Magazine. I love music, art, film, travel, food, tech and cars. Basically, everything this site is about.

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