Six factors to consider when buying a new car

When it’s time to upgrade your car, it can seem like there are a million details you need to understand. We’ve written this article to help make the decision easier.

Below, we’ll share six factors to consider when buying a new car.

Value depreciation

Brand new cars lose value faster because they cost more and have less mileage. This means you could lose a large chunk of money if you want to sell it soon. If you’ve ever wondered why gap insurance is worth it, this is one of the biggest reasons why people take it out on brand new cars instead of a normal policy. If you don’t want to take out gap insurance, you’re probably better off buying a used car – unless you’re sure you’ll keep it for a long time.

Body style

There are so many body styles out there. It’s best to consider which would suit you best and look for cars with that style. Hatchbacks are ideal for urban driving. Estates are better if you’ll need a big boot to carry luggage or equipment for activities. And SUVs make you feel extra safe on the road, thanks to their large frames and high driving positions.

Transmission

Many people enjoy manual, claiming that driving is more engaging when you have full control. On the other hand, since all electric cars are automatic and fuel-powered cars will no longer be sold in the future, many people are starting to make the switch early. That being said, automatics are still more expensive to buy and insure, so you may still want to opt for a manual for the time being.

Practicality

Whether you often need to transport bulky equipment or drive off-road, you want your new car to be capable of performing every job you’ll likely need it to. You also don’t want it to be over-qualified. Carefully consider what you’ll be needing from your car and try to find a model that can do just that.

Running costs

Buying a new car isn’t the only cost, there’s also the price of keeping it running. First there’s registering the vehicle, paying road tax and taking out insurance. Your new car’s fuel consumption is another important detail to consider, especially during a cost-of-living crisis when bills are likely to be high.

Safety

Especially if you have a family, it’s vital you consider safety features when looking at cars. Search for models with advanced safety features such as collision warning systems, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance, which help you and your loved ones stay safe on the road.

Finding the perfect new car can seem like a challenge. But by considering the crucial aspects above, you can make it significantly easier. Which of these factors will most help you decide?