Years ago, things were much simpler than they were now when it came to buying a new car. You’d simply go to the local dealer, select a model from the range in the showroom and then buy. Now though, when it comes to buying new, there is a much wider range to choose from – not least in terms of where to buy. So let’s take a look at this first.
Where To Buy
Franchised dealers of the brand that you’re looking to buy are now more competitive than they used to be – not least due to the rise in competition. Franchised dealers also tend to be very well represented, meaning you shouldn’t have to travel very far to find one. They’ll tend to offer a part-exchange service though you won’t get best price. Warranties of 3 years are typical, though some will offer more.
My experience of franchised dealers: Most expensive, but in this day and age they are far more willing to negotiate than previously. If you’re looking for nearly-new they’ll offer extremely low mileage cars. The easiest way to access brand new vehicles.
UK brokers source cars from franchised dealers but then bulk-buy in order to get big discounts. The best should offer these discounts to the customer, giving a deal on a new (or almost new, i.e. last of model line) that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Brokers should also be able to match services such as low-interest finance or free insurance if offered by the franchise they purchase from.
My experience of UK brokers: Good service, many cars of the same type so you might find it easy to get ‘that particular colour’. You may not be able to spec up a car and then have it due to the way that UK brokers operate.
Car supermarkets are independent (or at least they should be, though some may feature special deals from certain manufacturers) traders with a wide range of models. They will often offer cheaper cars as they have lower overheads, whilst pre-registered imports can be great for those hunting a bargain. Under the same roof, there’ll be a range of almost-new and used cars too.
My experience of car supermarkets: A good range of cars at varying prices, many of which are low mileage. If you want to see a range of models across a range of manufacturers, then this is your place. Even at a supermarket prices can be high, though the lowest of the three here. Least likely to offer an absolutely brand new vehicle.
As a word of caution, don’t automatically assume you’ll get better service levels from any one of these places. Talk to someone who’s already shopped where you’re thinking of buying, if at all possible. Remember, as soon as dealers hand over the keys it’s then that you’re dealing with a different animal. Try to rebuild a rapport with the Sales Manager, be polite and friendly and you should do fine.
Look out for Part 2, where I’ll look at importing vehicles.
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