Going for a test drive requires you to test two things; the car and the salesman.
We’ll deal with the salesman first; remember you are spending your money so as the customer you are literally the one in the driving seat and especially at this time of year and under the current economic conditions, no salesman should be taking you for granted. Does the salesman appear impatient or evasive when you ask them questions? Do they take the time to explain what is available and what some of the terminology means? If you aren’t sure what ABS is, ask them, if they don’t take your question seriously or are dismissive, then dismiss them and find another dealer. If you are not comfortable move on to another salesperson or another dealer, but assuming the salesperson has checked out OK then it is time to actually get into the car.
A new car is not cheap; in all probability it is the second most expensive purchase you are going to make after buying a home so take some time to get yourself acquainted with it. A test drive should allow you to drive the vehicle pretty much under the same conditions you are expecting from your regular use of the car. Take the vehicle out on different roads and different traffic conditions; if you spend time commuting in heavy traffic, drive in stop-and-go traffic so you get a feel for how comfortable the ride is and how easy the car is to drive.
You also will want to pay close attention to the car features; how easy is it to get in and out of the car, how do the seats feel and how easy is it to adjust the position of the seats, is your head hitting the headliner and how is the driver’s position with especial consideration for visibility? How much space is there in the back, especially if adults or growing kids and teenagers are going to be passengers for long journeys? What is the braking and acceleration like, is the handling loose or firm and what about the quality of the ride – how does it feel and fit to you?
If you aren’t satisfied or want more time, take it – you are the one who has to live with the car so take all the time you want and ask yourself whether this is the car you see yourself with in 3, 5 or 10 years time.
