When to Buy a New Car vs Used? | DirectAsia
Life is too short to drive a car you don’t like. But when you are buying a new car, the price tag comes with commas. With so many options available in Singapore, what is the best deal for you?
DirectAsia investigates why a new car may be best, when to buy and offers inspiration for your purchase.
Buying A New Car - Advantages
The warranty. New everything – engine, interior, breaks, tyres. Also, you can rest assured that the car is accident-free and no one is covering up its bad history. With a car between 0-3 years, there are lower maintenance and repair costs.
New car owners like to keep a watchful eye over their precious purchase. If you are insured with DirectAsia, you can choose the workshop you prefer for repairs. You also get a 12 month guarantee if you go with one of our recommendations. Bonus If you opt for car insurance with Loss of Use benefits – we will reimburse $50 per day while your car is in the shop.
Timing
Newly released cars always command a higher price, the best time to buy is when dealers are clearing stocks of last year’s model. Beware of flashy promotions, sometimes prices are inflated before being given a “discount”. So, do your research and shop smart.
When the price of COE falls, the prices of your desired car should fall in line. If the COE prices fall but the car you want remains the same price, negotiate hard for a realistic discount.
The best advice we found on negotiating is from money expert David Bakke who says, “I always make sure that I walk out of at least one dealership. This way, I always know their rock-bottom price, often given to me just before I leave.”
On top of discounts, you can request freebies, like servicing vouchers, solar film or car interior mats.
Showroom
A proper test drive is essential. Why? It's your opportunity to make sure the car is right for your needs and comfortable for you. After all, you are going to spend a significant amount of time in it!
Tip: “Other than test-driving the cars have narrowed down, it is also wise to test drive something at the higher rung of your budget or just above your budget. You will perhaps make better judgment on your original car of choice.” oneshift.com
Dealers may also give deeper discounts to clear stock that isn’t selling, such as cars in less popular colours.
Tip: “Allow at least an hour for your test drive – in town, out on the open road and on a motorway if possible.” moneyadviceservice.org.uk
Want Inspiration?
Here’s our roundup of noteworthy new and updated cars available in Singapore from 2015. From the height of luxury to the everyday workhorse.
Alfa Romeo 4C
Aston Martin
Audi TT Rapide S
Audi A1 and A7 Sportback
Bentley Mulsanne
BMW 2 Series Convertible / M235i Convertible
Citroen C4 Cactus
Giulietta QV
Ford Focus
Ford Mustang
Honda HR-V
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Rio
Mazda 2 Supermini
Mercedes-AMG GT
Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works
Nissan Qashqai 1.2
Peugeot 308
Porsche Cayenne
Range Rover SVR
Toyota Camry
Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan
Volvo XC90
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