Are you in the process of buying your first car? This is an exciting time in your life, but it can also be daunting as it is an important decision and a lot of money to spend. Keep reading for a few of the key considerations that should help you to find the right car for you and help you to start driving with confidence.
Budget
Before finding the perfect car only to realise that you cannot afford it, it is a good idea to set your budget. You can use finance deals to spread the cost of the car out into monthly payments, which can be a smart way to make the cost more affordable. Despite this, remember that it is not just the car that you will have to pay for as there will also be insurance, road tax, fuel and maintenance. You can use online calculators to get an idea of what you are able to afford including running costs.
New or Used
There are benefits to both buying new and used, but for first-timers, it is usually best to go with a used car. This is because they can be cheaper, you can get more for your money and they are cheaper to insure. Additionally, you will not be as worried about a used car and it is likely that you will upgrade after a few years, so depreciation is less of an issue. You can find used cars in your area by searching online, such as used cars for sale in Glasgow.
Engine Size
For new drivers, it is generally recommended that you opt for a car with a small engine. Not only will this be easier to drive, but you should also find that it will be cheaper to buy and run. Despite this, you do not want to buy a car that is not well-suited to the kind of trips that you will be making, so you need to think about the length of journeys you will be typically be making and choose a suitable engine size.
Safety Features
As a new motorist, it is understandable if your confidence levels are not particularly high. This is why it is a good idea to opt for a car that has a range of safety features, which will make driving safer for you (and others). This could include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist and blind-spot detection just as a few examples.
These are a few of the key considerations when choosing a car as a new driver. It is exciting picking out your first car, but it is also a daunting process and a lot of money to spend. Focus on the above areas and you should find a car that is well-suited to new drivers, a good fit for your lifestyle and within your budget.
