When it comes to things like vehicles or electronics, people love change. They can’t wait to update, upgrade, and be ahead of the curve. For many, one of the most exciting times can be shopping for a new vehicle. If you find yourself in the market, there are several things you will need to consider.
Gas Mileage
Before considering any vehicle, you need to first think about gas mileage. What kind of driving do you primarily do? Are you a city-commuter or a highway driver? Is this car meant for everyday use or just for long haul trips? Settling on a target mileage amount before you begin shopping can help eliminate certain models that would not suit your purposes.
Seating
The second most important thing to consider is how many seats you need. While those two-seater coupes might be super cute right now, if you are newly married and planning on children, you may need to invest in something with a little more space. For families who already have kids, you need to consider how often you are the carpool designate and whether you can fit any of your children’s friends in the vehicle.
Getting a car that is too big for your family can hit you pretty hard when it comes to gas mileage. Alternatively, buying something too small and being forced to upgrade again early will cost you. Carefully consider your purchase before you move, so you have a pleasantly sized vehicle for many years to come.
Hauling Capabilities
While not everyone needs to consider hauling capabilities, it is a very real requirement for some people. Ranchers and farmers often need trucks that can haul loads of material out on their property, as well as a vehicle that can haul livestock trailers. Your hauling capacity could be very important to both your work and recreational life and should be considered carefully.
4-Wheel Drive
Another element that may not be relevant to everyone is 4-wheel drive. In some areas, 4-wheel drive is a basic requirement, due to heavy snow loads or poorly maintained roads. Living in rural areas, having four or all-wheel drive may be your only option for transportation in winter months.
Alternatively, 4-wheel drive can seem exceedingly unnecessary if you live in the sunshine south where it never snows. It can cost you more initially on the vehicle, as well as decrease your gas mileage. For travelers, though, 4-wheel drive is a must if you plan to hit the slopes nearby or navigate mountain passes in the summer.
Extras
Nobody can determine what extras are “necessary” but you. If you cannot navigate your hometown without GPS, it will have to be a component of your car. If heated seats are the only thing that gets you out of bed in the winter months, you will probably need to add those as well. Consider which extras are necessities before you go to buy, so you can avoid being talked up.