Taking a new car for a test drive is the fun part of buying a car! You’ve done all the research and possibly even picked the car you want. Now it’s time to get behind the wheel and put your foot on the pedal.
The test drive is your chance to put the car to the test and make sure it is comfortable, enjoyable to drive and the right choice for you.
Test driving several cars should be part of your research into buying your new car. It will give you exposure to the feel of the car from behind the wheel, experience operating it and compare it to alternative models.
You will be able to guage how easy the car is to steer, how it handles rough and smooth roads, as well as the general comfort and visibility when driving. It’s a useful way to make sure any model of car is suitable for your needs and driving preferences.
This can vary depending on the dealership and their usual practice, so be sure to check what you should expect to be included in a test drive experience, in terms of time or range.
Ultimately, you should drive on roads similar to your usual journeys. Mimicking a like for like experience will give you the best idea of handling the car on your normal route and gauge the general comfort when driving.
FEEL AND DRIVE
BRAKING AND REVERSING
GADGETS AND CONTROLS
The dealer who takes you on the test drive is trained and will understand the car. They will be happy to answer your questions and give demonstrations on using features and programming the SatNav.
Remember you can’t ask too many questions – the dealer wants to make sure you are happy with your new car.
With the wealth of car information now online, do you really need to take a test drive? It seems car buyers are happy to skip the traditional test drive experience – widening their search to locations beyond their nearby dealerships and forgoing a pre-sale spin.
In fact 69% of people say that a 360 would convince them to buy a new car without a test drive. We recommend you do though, particularly if you haven’t driven the model or a like-for-like before.
It is important to book your test drive in advance with the dealer. You can book a test drive in a new car online or by phone with your local Jardine dealer.