First impressions aren't everything. That's the kind of advice we should apply to women, but it's easier said than done. When it comes to buying cars, however, this advice is invaluable.
It's easy to get blown away by the look of the car -- particularly when you're on a lot that has a sale as its only goal. Likewise, a dazzling and disorienting array of numbers, from miles per gallon and horsepower to price, can help pry open the wallet of even the most seasoned buyer.
The only way to make sure that you're buying the right car for you (and not for the salesman) is by giving it a test-drive -- not just a casual spin around the block, but a thorough, planned-out examination.
So, here to commemorate Porsche's stellar First Mile test-drive campaign, are some of the steps you should take when test-driving a car you're thinking of buying.
Do your research
You can find information on cars from reviews in publications like Car and Driver and Automobile Magazine or you can get it directly from the manufacturer's website. Learn about all the options that come standard with the ride you have your eye on, and get familiar with more important specs like engine size and mileage. If you know what the car is capable of and its limitations, you won't fall for an embellished pitch.
Test-drive on your time
It's tempting to get a test-drive out of the way on a lunch break, but it's not a great idea. Every test-drive is a sales situation, and a good salesman can use your lack of time to his advantage. Take your trial spin when you have plenty of time to get all the information you need.
Seat the salesman
Just because the salesman is another source of information, you don't have to let him disturb your driving experience. Tell him that you want to focus on the drive, being polite but firm. Rather than let him launch into his pitch, ask him questions only when you need to, and make it clear that you're not listening to his ramblings.
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