What to consider when looking for a new car

For most motorists, a car represents a major investment. Whether you’re in the market for a used vehicle or a brand-new one, you’ll need to weigh a range of factors before making the decision. That way, you’ll be able to avoid regret in the long term.

Cost

Perhaps the most salient factor is the cost you’ll be incurring. This should include not only the up-front asking price but also the ongoing costs you’ll incur. How fuel-efficient is your prospective new vehicle going to be? How expensive are road tax and maintenance going to be? What about your annual MOT, and your car insurance?

Certain manufacturers tend to stand out for their performance and reliability. This makes them safe choices, even when you’re buying used. For example, the market for VW used cars represents a great way for motorists to save money in both the short and long term.

Brand reliability

The most reliable cars tend to hold their value better. But there are other features that correlate with long-term resale value. The prestige associated with a particular manufacturer and model will tend to motivate potential buyers, especially if the particular model is very rare.

According to a recent survey by Fleet News, it’s Toyota that comes on top of the pile in terms of reliability. But a quartet of German manufacturers (Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen) come close behind.

In some cases, the value of your asset might actually appreciate over time, which can drive down the cost of motoring considerably.

Electric

There are two major, related advantages to opting for a battery electric or hybrid vehicle. Firstly, you’ll be able to drive down, or eliminate, the emissions the vehicle produces. Secondly, your overall energy consumption will be reduced.

If you’re traveling long distances, then this might be enough to quickly offset the higher costs of an electric vehicle. It’s also worth considering how easily you’ll be able to charge the vehicle, and who’ll maintain it when things go wrong.

What About Your Needs?

Your purchasing decision should ultimately be informed by needs. How far are you going to be traveling, and how often? How many passengers are you going to be transporting, and how often? How much space do you need in the rear?

We might also think about the extra features available, which might make the driving experience that much more pleasant and safe. Lane assist, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and other such features can not only take the effort out of driving long distances – they can also help to drive down the risk of a collision. Think about which of these features will bring the most value to you, and shop accordingly.