Test drive dos and don'ts

Before heading to the dealership, research the models you're interested in and narrow it down to 3 or 4 within your budget. Familiarise yourself with their features, specifications, and reviews. This will help you make informed comparisons during the test drive.

Dealerships can get busy, especially on weekends. To ensure you get enough time and attention, schedule an appointment for your test drive. This also allows the dealership to prepare the vehicle in advance.

Before you start driving, take a few minutes to inspect the car. Check for any visible damages, wear and tear, and the condition of the tyres. Ensure all features and controls are working properly.

Try to test drive the car in different conditions. This includes city streets, highways, and any rough or uneven terrain. Pay attention to how the car handles, accelerates, and brakes in each setting.

Make sure to test all features, including the air conditioning, infotainment system, and any advanced safety features. If the car has different driving modes, try them out as well.

Create a checklist of things you want to evaluate during the test drive. This can include comfort, visibility, noise levels, and how easy it is to park the car. A checklist ensures you don't forget to assess any important aspects – don’t forget to take it with you to the dealership.

Don't hesitate to ask the salesperson any questions you have about the car. Whether it's about maintenance costs, warranty coverage, or financing options, it’s crucial to get all the information you want upfront.

Take your time during the test drive. A thorough test drive should take at least 30 minutes. Don't rush through the process and spend enough time to get a proper feel for the car.

Focus on the driving experience. Avoid distractions such as phone calls or conversations that can take your attention away from assessing the car's performance.

Pay close attention to the comfort of the car, the ease of getting in and out of the car, and the amount of legroom and headroom. Make sure the driving position is comfortable for you, especially if you have any physical limitations (if you’re very tall or short, have back issues etc.).

Even if you don't plan to use the back seat often, it's important to check its comfort and accessibility. If you have children or frequently travel with passengers, their comfort is equally important.

Check the boot space. Consider if it meets your needs for everyday use, groceries, or any larger items you might transport. These are some of the questions you can consider: How does it open and close? Will it be easy to load and unload groceries and schoolbags when your attention is on your kids or elsewhere? Will you be using it for work or to transport bigger items? Are you planning long holidays that require more space?

Don't ever feel pressured to make a decision on the spot. Always go home first, take some time to think about it, compare it with other models, and ensure it truly meets your needs and budget before closing the deal.

The dealership experience is also important. Take note of how the staff treats you, the level of service provided, and their willingness to answer your questions. A positive dealership experience can make future service and maintenance visits more efficient and pleasant.