Signs that a car matches a driver’s lifestyle

When buying a car, most people focus on finding their dream car without paying any attention to whether such a car is going to fit their lifestyle, and this can cause them huge problems later on. Now, the question is how to avoid this and find a car that’s going to be perfect for your needs and the one that still brings the satisfaction of driving?

Determine what you’re going to use the car for

The first thing you need to do is determine what you need the car for most. For example, consider the differences in the type of car you would need for these scenarios:

• you primarily use the car for short-distance drives
• you have a large family
• you live in an area that gets a lot of snow
• you need to tow a boat
• you have 3 large dogs
• parking is very tight either in your neighbourhood or on your property
• you regularly carry long items (e.g. garden tools)
• you live in an area with a lot of rough roads
• you have a bad back or limited mobility.

Some trade-offs may need to be made (i.e. it might be that a car in your price range doesn’t 100% meet your requirements). For example, tight parking usually means you’ll need a small car. If you have three large dogs, you’ll be cramped in the car, or you might need to park further away.

Your style is important

Your car can be a reflection of your style. If you’re someone who finds this highly important, then you need to be extra careful when choosing the right car, because one small mistake can lead to a completely wrong choice where you’ll be unhappy every time you get in it.

We’ve seen the impact that a CEO can make on the perception of a vehicle brand, and the image that some vehicles suffer from in terms of their economy or design.

What can be difficult when it comes to this is balancing your style and your budget, and still managing to find the perfect car. Patience is a virtue in this case – the right car might not be available right now, and you might have to wait a while. Find a company that offers both new and used cars so that you can compare the options and your budget, and perhaps register your interests with one of the team, who can then either search on your behalf or call you when they have the right car. The best option is to look for local companies if servicing is going to be an issue.

What about the space you need?

We touched on this when discussing what you will use the car for. Every car differs when it comes to the space it provides, and what configuration they provide it in. For example, if you need a vehicle with seven seats, then boot space will be at a premium; you may need to install a roof rack for your holidays. If you need a general runabout, then you need to have the right amount of seating and enough storage space for groceries, travel needs, etc. This way, you’ll.be comfortable enough using the car and will enjoy all the journeys together. If you carry long items, you’ll need a vehicle with a longer wheelbase, such as a station wagon, unless they can go on a roof rack or in a trailer.

Technology moved car use to the next level

Technological progress continues unabated in vehicles. Unfortunately, many are moving to a massive touchscreen in the dashboard which, contrary to what you might think, is actually much harder to use than buttons and dials because you need to take your eyes off the road. It does, however, lead to much more customisation.

Safety features should be prioritised, such as autonomous emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. Autonomous driving features might be desirable if they are well-enough implemented.

Focus on the most important features, especially if you have a budget that can’t afford any unexpected expensive purchases. 

Don’t forget the maintenance…

All cars need maintenance. Your environment, driving style and distances you drive will affect how much maintenance you need to do. Some vehicles are renowned for having high maintenance costs due to either expensive parts or their propensity to break down.

You will also want to consider whether there’s a local service agent for your make of car.

Buying a car is a process that requires proper attention because details can ruin the whole experience. Your car should always match your lifestyle, because this is the only way to enjoy it without having any problems, whether financial or practical ones, and this way you ensure peace of mind.