Are you looking for a car and don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, this is normal. There are dozens of options for each category, even if they are from the same brand, you can easily find three or four cars that can meet your budget and needs. But the problem is, you can only choose one. What is your smart purchase? Which car should I buy?
This guide is designed to help you navigate the complex decision-making process.
To decide to purchase any consumer good with a specific value, whether it’s a vehicle or any other type of product, you should always be aware of the maximum budget and try not to exceed it. We know it’s easy to get confused with financing, comfortable installments, and choose a car more expensive than what we originally wanted to buy. But keep in mind that financing often involves other expenses (fees), which will increase the costs, and the actual amount you pay is much higher than your initial budget. Therefore, make sure to have a clear maximum budget, and in the case of financing, ensure that you can still meet the monthly installments and the initial and final amount of the loan.
Never set a budget that is beyond your means. If your budget is not enough to find a car that meets your needs, consider buying a used vehicle.
Another important point is to have a clear understanding of your needs. For example, if you often travel with the whole family, you should consider a vehicle with ample trunk space; if you cover many kilometers per day (at least 30,000 or 40,000 kilometers per year), your smart purchase might be a diesel vehicle; if you cover a few kilometers mainly in the city, it’s better to stay away from diesel, as it won’t be cost-effective.
If you need a spacious trunk for family trips, minivans are the most economical alternative. SUVs have become a more popular choice, but as a general rule, they are not as economical.
If your family is large, you will need a seven-seater vehicle, preferably a large one. Look for a vehicle with three rows of seats, suitable for continuous use (not all minivans have a spacious third row of seats).
If you enjoy picnics, don’t hesitate, an SUV is your best option. Modern SUVs may not have all the capabilities of an off-road vehicle, but they do well in situations you’ll encounter driving on complicated roads and tracks.
If you are a speed enthusiast and want a powerful vehicle, there are many interesting cars, from the smallest and most economical (like the Ford Fiesta ST) to the most powerful and expensive (like the Porsche Boxster). Keep in mind that to enjoy a good sports car, you don’t have to choose a high-end brand. There are many interesting cheaper options, not to mention the second-hand market. Something to consider is that more expensive and powerful sports cars also tend to have high maintenance and refueling costs.
Don’t be fooled, if you don’t need a powerful car, don’t buy one. Nowadays, all cars, even the cheapest ones, can comfortably cover long distances on the road and perform merges and overtakes completely safely. Also, due to lower power, you will save a lot of money in terms of purchase price and subsequent maintenance.
