| For most people buying a new car is their second | | | | emissions will affect the amount of tax you will have |
| biggest financial outlay. You need to ensure you have | | | | to pay. |
| a great car that meets your requirements and suits | | | | What type of fuel does it run on-unleaded petrol, diesel, |
| your budget. There are a number of key factors | | | | or a duel fuel and LPG? If you like a particular model is |
| which should be considered before you make a final | | | | it available with different fuel types? |
| decision. | | | | What are the specifications of the car? The car's top |
| Firstly you need to take a look at different | | | | speed, weight and size. |
| manufacture's models to narrow down the size, cost, | | | | Are there optional extras available? How much will |
| features and style you are looking for. The easiest | | | | they cost? |
| way to do your initial research is to go online and | | | | What are the delivery times? |
| browse through the ranges of cars available from | | | | Book test drives either via the website, by phone or by |
| approved car dealerships. You will also find some | | | | calling into the showroom. It is advisable to take a |
| great offers including finance, free accessories and | | | | number of cars for a test drive. This will give you a |
| warranty. All new vehicles come with a manufacture's | | | | good comparison basis. Try and take the same route |
| warranty. The number of years on new vehicle | | | | in each of the cars to see how they perform and |
| warranties is usually three years, but this does vary | | | | handle in the same road conditions. Drive at different |
| between manufactures. | | | | speeds to judge road handling, use all of the gears and |
| Check with the dealership about part exchange | | | | test braking. Driving different models may help you |
| options. Dealerships will use market value lists to make | | | | decide which has the best all round vision. The comfort |
| you an offer, however if your old car is in immaculate | | | | of the driving position, ease of accessing controls of |
| condition with low mileage you may be able to | | | | heating and the audio system and sufficient interior |
| negotiate for a better deal. | | | | space can only be judged during a test drive. |
| Once you have an idea of what's available within your | | | | Remember to take your driving license with you. If you |
| budget you will be able to select models which meet | | | | don't have a current and valid driving license you will |
| your requirements. Ask yourself some fundamental | | | | not be able to test drive a car! |
| questions. | | | | You will be looking for the best overall deal on the new |
| What is the car going to be used for?-purely for | | | | cars available, so ask about special offers. Many |
| personal social and domestic use or a combination of | | | | dealerships will offer free insurance for a year-subject |
| work and personal pleasure? | | | | to terms and conditions-or roadside assistance cover. |
| What fuel consumption can you expect to get? How | | | | As the car market is very competitive dealership will |
| many miles per litre can you expect the car to give? | | | | have various incentives to tempt you to buy from |
| How much CO2 will it emit? The amount of CO2 | | | | them. |