The process of purchasing a new car can generate a lot of fear and emotions to the buyer. Even the used vehicles shoppers are faced with anxiety sometimes since there are no cars or trucks which are identical. This makes the comparison more difficult. The following research tips will help you in making a right decision when purchasing your next car.
Determine your wants, lifestyle, and needs
You should make a comprehensive list 
of all your needs when you are planning to buy a car. These needs include the storage capacity, performance or mechanical specifications, seating capacity, towing capacities and fuel mileage. These needs will help you in narrowing down to the best option. This is followed by listing down your wants such as the sound system (for those people who love music).
Here are some of the categories that would help you when compiling your list.
- Performance and engine’s features: This includes the transmission, horsepower, fuel mileage and towing.
- Infotainment features: Wi-Fi, touch screen, CD player, surround sound, a navigation system, USB Bluetooth, iPhone compatible.
- Convenience and comfort: Power windows, cruise control, power mirrors, power seats and outlets for charging cell phones.
- Cargo carrying capacities and storage: Boxliners. Cargo systems, tonneau covers
- Safety Features: Traction control, air bags, backup cameras and lane departure warning.
- Seating: Bucket or bench seats, 4, 5, 7 passengers, manual vs. electronic adjustments, armrests, heated seats, leather seats.
Your needs, lifestyle and wants will help you in determining the kind or type of vehicle you will purchase. Additionally, these factors will determine the amount of money to spend when purchasing your vehicle.
Determine the monthly budget for your vehicle
You should choose a vehicle which is within reach of your
budget. All the operating costs must be factored in when 
making the final purchase of the vehicle. Your monthly payment will also play a key role in determining the monthly budget for your vehicle. Other important factors that need to be considered are the advantages and disadvantages of leasing, long term versus short term finance contracts as well as the interest rates on credit offered by the financial institutions.
Making a comprehensive online comparison
You are advised to compare at least three different brands which lie within the same category of the vehicle you are looking for. This will help you in finding the right vehicle for you. Some of these brands will be selling at a high value than the others. You also need to compare the features of the various brands and compare them with the list of your wants and needs.
