How to Buy a New Small Car
- 1). Make a budget for yourself. Small cars can be more affordable than larger vehicles, but they are still a hefty investment. If you plan to finance, know what you can afford as a down payment and per month to help you create a budget before car shopping. Most small cars will cost between $14,000 and $35,000.
- 2). Find car dealerships in your area that sell smaller cars. Online resources like Car Dealership Directory.com and New Car Dealerships.com can help you locate dealers near you. The major brands that sell small cars include Chevrolet, Ford, BMW, Nissan, Scion, Toyota, Honda and Volkswagen. Look for dealerships that sell these brands.
- 3). Visit the dealerships in your area that sell the type of small car you want. There are a few basic kinds, including small sedans and sporty small cars. Both types typically seat five to six passengers and have a fuel economy from the mid-20 to low-30 miles per gallon. Since they are so similar, this decision is largely based on your personal preferences for how your small car looks.
- 4). Pay attention to the features that are important to you when considering small cars. Fuel economy, for example, can vary from car to car. Seating positions, access and cargo space are matters of personal preference that will also vary in different types of small cars.
- 5). Check the safety rating for the small cars you're considering. Smaller cars are much more vulnerable if involved in an accident than larger cars and vehicles, so the safety rating and features are very important. Consumer Reports.org allows you to search for a particular car's safety rating. Front airbags, lap and shoulder seat belts and electronic stability control are all safety features to look for in a small car.
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