- Set Your Budget Clearly
- Calculate how much you can afford not just up front (down payment), but monthly (EMI, fuel, insurance, maintenance). (HDFC Bank)
- Include all extra costs: registration charges, taxes, delivery charges etc. (https://www.insurancedekho.com)
- Understand Your Needs
- Think about what you’ll mainly use the car for: city driving? Long highway trips? Carrying family or luggage often? Rough roads? (tmbtatamotors.in)
- Decide how many seats, what boot space you need. (https://www.insurancedekho.com)
- Choose the Right Body Type & Size
- Hatchback / sedan / SUV / MPV – each has trade-offs in cost, handling, fuel efficiency, parking. (indusmotor.com)
- Consider ground clearance if roads are bad. (Moneycontrol)
- Decide on Fuel Type & Engine / Transmission
- Petrol, diesel, CNG, electric/hybrid – consider fuel cost, availability, emission norms. (The Times of India)
- Manual vs automatic (or AMT, CVT, DCT etc.) depending on traffic conditions and your comfort. (The Times of India)
- Safety & Features
- Look for standard safety features: airbags, ABS, ESC / stability control, seat-belt reminders, ISOFIX child seat mounts etc. (https://www.insurancedekho.com)
- Also useful: driver aids like reverse camera, lane‐assist, parking sensors etc. (Travelers)
- Fuel Efficiency & Running Cost
- Estimate mileage or fuel/energy consumption. For high daily travel, efficiency matters a lot. (The Financial Express)
- Also check cost of spares, service centres, insurance in your area. (Moneycontrol)
- Resale Value and Depreciation
- Some brands and models keep value better than others. It’s worth comparing. (Moneycontrol)
- Also check whether certain versions (higher variants) have features that buyers later want. (The Times of India)
- Test Drive Thoroughly
- Don’t just a short spin; test in traffic, on highways, try all features (AC, brakes, steering feel etc.). (The Times of India)
- If possible, include tests with passengers and luggage to mimic your real use. (MotorOctane)
- Check After‐Sales Support & Warranty
- A good service network is essential for maintenance, spares etc. (tmbtatamotors.in)
- Know the warranty terms (duration, what is covered, what isn’t) and what extensions cost. (MotorOctane)
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- Negotiate & Beware of Hidden Costs
- Don’t accept the first offer; check if there are discounts, seasonal offers, dealer discounts. (tmbtatamotors.in)
- Before finalizing, scrutinize the invoice—look for hidden fees (logistics, handling, essential kit etc.). (https://www.insurancedekho.com)
- Also consider getting the loan pre-approved so you know what interest rates / tenures are realistic. (acuity.com)
