New Car Matchmaking: How to Find the Perfect Car for You
Looking to fall in love with your next new car?
You’re not alone - every year, millions of drivers have their dream car fantasies turn to thoughts of love, and many start looking to make a move to get themselves in the vehicle of their dreams. From sporty roadsters with unheard of horsepower to ultra-modern cruisers designed to get you where you need to go in style, today’s new cars are designed to make each mile a pleasure - and smart buyers know exactly how to pick the perfect match.
Whether you’re an experienced driver looking to trade up to something sexy or a new driver looking for a reliable starter that’s sure to turn heads, finding the perfect new car for your lifestyle and your budget can be one of the most rewarding investments you’ll make all year. But making the perfect match is more than just a game of chance - it’s all about figuring out exactly what you’re looking for, and making the move to find the best deal for your budget.
Here’s a look at how to take the awkwardness out of those early days of searching and how to get yourself in the perfect new car for a happily ever after all your own.
Budgeting for a New Car
As fun as it is to think of all the fun gadgets and gizmos contained in some of today’s sportiest models, most drivers find it easier to begin in a more realistic place: budget. Obviously, it does a driver little good to shoot for a vehicle that’s well below their price range, but nobody likes to settle for less than they can afford simply for the sake of savings. When it comes to finding that perfect sweet spot for your budget, it’s all about being smart and thinking long-term - and that can be as easy as figuring out how much you’re willing to pay for your new car.
On average, smart buyers follow the 15 percent rule - that is, no more than 15 percent of your yearly income should go to your new car. Whether you’re looking to buy something outright or set up a financing plan, following this basic 15 percent rule can be a smart way of keeping your costs well within budget. That means the average buyer making $4,000 per month should look to budget for monthly car payments not exceeding $600 - that way you can be sure you’re not getting ahead of yourself as those monthly payments start to add up.
It’s also important to consider all costs of your vehicle before signing on the dotted line. That includes the added cost of interest to your overall costs, which can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the course of your financing. Some buyers - especially those with cash in the bank - should look for financing plans that are as short as possible, since higher monthly payments made over a shorter duration of time can save in interest costs over the long term. And although it can be a big hit all at once, simply buying a car outright from the lot may be the best way to reduce overall costs - especially if you can avoid interest all together.
Determining Your Needs
Finding the perfect right car for you means more than just getting behind the wheel of your dream car. For many drivers, shopping smart means shopping to match your needs, and often times the call of family responsibility or lifestyle needs can override that desire for a sporty pony car. Those looking for spacious cargo room, for instance, might want to look into high-capacity SUVs to get the whole gang around town without feeling cramped in; likewise, those who plan to take on off-road trails may need to account for 4x4 capabilities and protective skid plates before taking off on an adventure.
Researching Makes and Models
Although many drivers may already have particular brand or model loyalties based on previous experience, sometimes the best version of the car you're looking for may not hide behind your most familiar nameplates. That’s why new car buyers should always take the time to look into a range of makes and models for your particular body type.
Different manufacturers may offer a different range of amenities and capabilities year after year, meaning that sub-standard model from a decade ago may have improved quite a bit since you last hit the new car lots. On top of that, many manufacturers are now offering incredible deals and incentives to sell particular models, meaning you can find a good or even better deal on the exact car you’re looking for simply by doing your due diligence. It’s all about finding the right fit, and sometimes that right fit might be hiding in plain sight - all you need to do is know how to find it.
Narrowing Down the Search
Once you've determined which make, model, and price point you’re looking for, the hard part begins - determining where you’ll actually buy your new vehicle. This is your chance to narrow down your choices to only the best and most valuable deals out there, helping to reduce costs and increase value as you search for the perfect deal for you. Often times, the act of simply searching inventories in your area may just point you to the perfect option. Who says there’s no value in doing your homework before hitting the lots?
Finding The Perfect New Car Is Easier Than It Looks
If you’re ready to get rid of that old clunker in the driveway and trade up to something you can be proud to take through town, it might just be time to think about buying new. By considering your budget, narrowing your search to exactly what you need, and looking in the right places before buying, you can stand to save yourself a whole lot while getting exactly what you’re looking for.
Do your research, make your move, and get out there - your new car is waiting to take on miles and miles ahead.