Perhaps you’ve swapped out a bulky SUV or truck for a smaller sedan that’s easier to maneuver within tight crowds. Or maybe you’re looking to cut back on extra expenses with a more affordable or fuel-efficient alternative. Whatever the reasons for switching, consider all your options before driving off the lot. Here are four tips to guide you through the sedan-buying process.
Shop Around
When you arrive at the dealership, don’t just settle for the first sedan that catches your eye. Instead, do some research beforehand so you go in prepared, but stay flexible in case the sedan you want doesn’t meet your expectations. It’s also smart to test drive different cars under different conditions to test their performance and reliability.
Also, look at models with varying price points within your limit, both at the lower and higher ends, and browse online reviews before heading to the dealership so you have a better idea of what to look for. Most importantly, don’t let the dealer rush you into purchasing a sedan you’re not 100 percent committed to.
Know Your Sedan’s Purpose
The sedan spectrum is broad; you’ll find models that are compact, midsize, or full-size as well as those with amenities geared toward sportiness, luxury, or family hauling. If you’re focusing on nimbleness and agility, consider a compact or midsize sedan. Meanwhile, a full-size sedan is ideal for carpooling, road-tripping, or simply accommodating a growing family.
If you need a more fuel-efficient option, you may want to search for a sedan with a hybrid or all-electric power-train. Lastly, consider the types of terrain you’re likely to cross; this will determine whether you need front-wheel drive or the added traction and support of an all-wheel-drive system.
Keep a Checklist of Features You Want
If you want to upgrade past the basics, make sure you have enough room in your budget to afford these added luxuries. If you often take road trips, features like a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, a navigation system with turn-by-turn directions, satellite radio, and smartphone integration are must-haves. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to add splash guards or all-season floor mats, too!
You also need a vehicle that can protect you and your family efficiently. Fortunately for Honda owners, sedans like the Accord and Civic already come standard with a suite of driver-assist technologies collectively known as Honda Sensing. This group keeps you focused and alert thanks to systems like lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition.
Consider a Used or Certified Pre-Owned Sedan
You can avoid premature depreciation by choosing to go the used sedan route. However, you’ll need to consider whether the factory warranty and latest amenities on a new car are worth swapping out for a slightly outdated yet cheaper model.
Though if you don’t mind spending a tad more for a certified pre-owned vehicle, you’ll benefit from dealership perks like a detailed inspection, vehicle history report, unlimited roadside assistance, and additional warranty coverage. A certified pre-owned is an appropriate median for buyers who want to blend reliability and frugality.
If you do your research and stick to what fits comfortably within your budget and expectations, you’ll have no trouble finding a sedan that ideally suits your lifestyle.
Image via Flickr by NiePhotography | CC BY-SA 2.0.
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