How to Choose the Best New Car For You
Searching for "New Car Near Me?" - We Have Some Tips!
Did you know that, after buying a house, the purchase of a car is the second largest purchase you will make? Whether you're considering a new car or a used truck, a vehicle can be a commitment longer than some relationships and far more intimidating. In fact, the average person spends 6% of their waking hours in their vehicle, so getting this choice right is important.
That's why many people choose to purchase a brand new, just-off-the-line vehicle that they can call their own. Here at Stephen Wade Auto Center, we have 13 brands all in one location for you to choose from. But with thirteen brands, the options can seem intimidating. So, how do you choose which one works best for you? There are four main factors you should take into consideration when deciding on a new vehicle: Lifestyle, Budget, Feel, and Value.
Lifestyle:
Just like any other company, vehicle brands focus on specific markets of people, and you can see this in the terminology they use in their advertising. From rough and rugged to sleek and luxurious, every brand has a niche, and knowing which niche fits your lifestyle will save you time and money during your search. Take a moment to identify some of your wants and needs. Do you need many seats, or just a few? Will you be driving it daily, or only for special occasions? What type of fuel do you prefer?
If you have a family of 7 that often goes camping along the Arizona Strip, you're going to be looking for a significantly different vehicle than a family of 7 with a second home in Salt Lake. Knowing your must-haves will help you narrow down your vehicle search quickly. Understanding that some brands won't have what you're searching for will also help. For instance, did you know that Ford doesn't have a sedan option other than the Mustang? Or that Jeep offers only one option for a third-row vehicle? While Toyota and Honda both boast industry-leading minivan options in hybrid models.
Looking for a simple first car for your teenager? The Nissan line boasts multiple sedan options with strong safety ratings at reasonable prices. Knowing what lifestyle features matter to you is the first step. Once you have identified your wants and needs, your next step is to know your budget.
Budget:
In the automotive industry, sales professionals often ask questions such as "What monthly payment are you hoping to be at?" This question, and others like it, allow the professional to ascertain what your budget is. Because, when factoring in the average interest rate, your basic monthly payment can be calculated roughly as--for every $10,000 of a vehicle you can expect to pay $200/month. This is a great way to anticipate what an expected payment might be.
This is also good for calculating a down payment on a vehicle. Typically, it's a good idea to have enough money ready to pay your taxes and registration on your new purchase. Here in Utah, we generally suggest 10-12% for that. Then, take into consideration that every $1,000 is about $20 less per month.
Remember to take into consideration monthly upkeep when calculating your budget. How much can you anticipate spending on fuel? How much for insurance? Once you've determined your budget, it's time to take some vehicles for a test drive.
Feel:
Choosing a car is not just about its practical aspects, but also about how it feels to drive it. This is the subjective part of the decision-making process, and it's important to find a vehicle that suits your preferences.
For instance, do you prefer a smooth and quiet ride, or do you like to feel the road under your feet? Do you prefer a car that's quick and nimble, or one that's more comfortable and relaxed? These are all factors to consider when choosing a car that feels right to you.
It's important to note that the feel of a car can also be influenced by its features and technology. For example, some cars offer adaptive suspension that adjusts to the road conditions, while others offer sport modes that make the car more responsive. Consider the type of driving you will be doing and choose a vehicle that will provide the experience you are looking for.
Value:
Finally, it's important to consider the value of the vehicle. This includes factors such as resale value, reliability, and cost of ownership. While a vehicle may seem like a good deal initially, it may end up costing more in the long run due to maintenance and repair costs. Consider the cost of insurance, fuel economy, and maintenance when making your decision.
It's also important to consider the resale value of the vehicle. Some brands and models hold their value better than others, and this can have a big impact on the long-term cost of ownership. Do your research and choose a vehicle that is known for its reliability and durability, as this will save you money in the long run.
Choosing a new vehicle can feel overwhelming, but by taking the time to look at these four factors - lifestyle, budget, feel, and value – you can navigate your options and make the best decision for yourself and your family. Remember to take your time, do your research, and test drive the vehicles you are interested in. And remember, you've got it made at Stephen Wade!
