Just like you know it’s better to go grocery shopping with a list, so too should you when you’re in the market for a new car. A new car test drive checklist is really quite important, because it’s easy to be overwhelmed with all the fuss — and the obvious comparison to the car you arrived there in.
This doesn’t mean to say your current mode of transport is dilapidated, but the comparisons to the car you’ve been in and a brand-new model will be obvious.
That’s why a vehicle test drive check list helps you keep a clear head about the experience.
Tips On Preparing For A Test Drive
- Don’t waste your own — or the dealership’s time. If the car doesn’t meet your needs, thank them for the effort and leave.
- Do your vehicle test drive during daytime hours. This gives you the best visibility of the model which would look different under night lights (no matter how bright).
- Conduct your vehicle test drive by taking both streets and freeways, as much as you can. Where possible, choose your own routes that offer a mix of road surfaces — from city streets to winding suburban roads, hills and freeways — all best suited to truly test ride quality.
- Is the car powerful enough for everyday use? Test it merging onto a highway, passing and in city driving.
- Does running the air conditioner result in unacceptable power loss?
- Your test drive checklist should include giving yourself enough time. Don’t be rushed. And a dealership salesman who rushes you is probably trying to get you to overlook things.
If you can…
A great tip is to rent a model of the car that you’re looking to buy. Take it for a weekend where — whether you’re doing family events and weekend shopping, or going out of town — you’ll get a great perspective on living with the car and find out if it really works for you.
Tips For Conducting An Effective New-Car Evaluation
Can I test drive a new car?
Even though it’s new and shiny, and you’ve been counting down the days to when you collect your brand-new car, it’s still important to have a new car test drive checklist for when you collect it. Just as you did a thorough “dress rehearsal” during the browsing-to-buying phase, you should expect a walk-through of the new model you’re picking up.
Why do I need to test drive a new car?
You don’t want to leave the showroom and realise on your joyride home that an indicator doesn’t work, the wheels aren’t balanced or the aircon gas wasn’t filled. It’s rare that a new car off the production line should have any of these issues, but unforeseen glitches happen.
With six incredible models on offer from Subaru, we’re ready to work through your new car test drive checklist six times over — if you’re keen.
All our dealerships across the country are equipped to help you find the Subaru of your dreams. Book your test drive today, call us on +27 11 608 0116 or email info@subaru.co.za and a skilled member of our team will be happy to assist you.
