Are you coming to the end of a contract or do you feel like it’s time to upgrade or replace a car you’ve had for years? If you need a new ride, and you’re on a mission to make finding a new car seamless and stress-free, here are some tips to take on board. 

Unless you’re a bona fide petrolhead, you might not be aware of the latest models or new releases that have got motoring aficionados talking. When looking for a new car, it’s always helpful to search for inspiration. Read magazines to get an idea of what’s available, browse dealership websites, look at reviews and check out celebrity cars and see what your favourite singers, actors or football players are driving. It’s also a great idea to take a tour of showrooms and dealerships so that you can take a closer look at different makes and models. Brochures and social media images can be helpful but it’s always best to inspect cars in the flesh if you can. Use your research to narrow down your options. 

Unless you’ve got an A-list salary, it’s probably best to set a budget before you fall head over heels for a car that costs too much. Figure out your finances and use filters to search for vehicles that are affordable. Once you have an idea of how much you want to spend and you have a few models in mind, you can compare deals and offers and explore payment options. Some people choose to buy cars outright while others opt for finance options that enable you to spread the cost and swap the car at the end of an agreed term. Car finance is an excellent option if you like the idea of always having a new or nearly new car and it can also make a wider range of models more affordable and accessible. Always check that you can afford the repayments before you sign any contracts. 

We all have different requirements and preferences when it comes to finding a car. For some, the thrill of driving is the main motivation while for others, finding a safe, reliable, spacious vehicle for the family is the primary goal. Consider your lifestyle, how you plan to use the car and how much space you need when exploring different vehicle types. From compact, fuel-efficient cars for city driving and sports cars for those who love to travel in style to SUVs, estates and MPVs for families, there’s an array of options. Outline your priorities in terms of features, spec, space, aesthetic and price to help you find a car that ticks all of the boxes. 

Cars may look great in showrooms and online galleries but you can’t really get a feel for a vehicle or understand how it drives without getting behind the wheel. If you have a short list, organise test drives and see how much you enjoy the driving experience. It’s important that you feel comfortable and that you’re impressed with the car’s performance. 

Are you on the hunt for a new car? If so, take these tips on board to narrow down the options and find a car that is perfect for you.