Finding Your Perfect Ride: How to Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Needs
Choosing a new vehicle depends on who you are and what you expect from your vehicle. It needs to fit your lifestyle; some like it to make a statement while other want the functionality for daily tasks.
Here are some practical tips to help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle and needs.
Assessing Your Lifestyle: Start by thinking about how you'll use the vehicle.
How many passengers do you need to vehicle? Will you be using a children's car seat? (For those with a growing family, safety and space might make an SUV or minivan your go-to.)
What cargo capacity do you need?
Do you drive long commutes and if so, is fuel economy important to you?
Do you reside in harsh weather climate, thus is all-wheel drive important to you?
Will you be doing any towing?
What are your "Must Have" features (back up camera, blind spot monitoring, Apple CarPlay, sunroof, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, etc.)
How much garage or parking space do you have?
Consider Your Budget:
Your budget isn't just about the purchase price. Consider the total cost of ownership, including fuel, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation. If you're looking to save on gas and maintenance, hybrids or fully electric vehicles might be worth a look, especially with fuel prices being what they are.
Thinking About Features:
List the features you can't live without. Do you need extra cargo space, advanced safety features, or maybe Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Prioritize these in your search; once you have determined your criteria, go to the dealership's webpage and search their inventory.
Remember, sometimes less is more--don't pay for gadgets you won't use.
Benefits of Used vs New:
New vehicles come with the latest technology and warranties, however used vehicles offer great bargains at lower prices, especially if you find a model just a few years old with low mileage. A used vehicle offers more value for your money with lower monthly payments (buyers avoid additional fees attached to new cars: Freight, taxes etc.)
Test Drive:
Always test-drive the vehicles you're considering. This is when you see if there's chemistry. How does it feel on the road? Is the seating comfortable? Is the ride smooth?
Choosing the right vehicle is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Focus on what matters most to you and take your time. Happy vehicle hunting!