While purchasing a new car might be thrilling, it can also be stressful. The test drive adds to the tension that comes with the negotiation process. In fact, it can be unsettling to consider getting into a strange car with a complete stranger and traveling down the road together. Additionally, there is pressure because most customers will decide in this limited period whether they will buy their next new vehicle.
Since most customers don’t frequently purchase new cars, part of what makes a test drive so stressful is that they aren’t sure what to expect. Be ready to hand over documents that the dealer may ask for, like your driver’s license and, in some areas, proof of insurance. This information might need to be copied by the salesperson. This is done so they have your personal information in case something goes wrong during the test drive, in addition to confirming that you are a registered driver. As strange as it may sound, there have been instances of frauds in which groups of individuals attempted to steal a car while it was being tested.
In most situations, the salesperson will join you on the test drive once they have the correct license plate for the car and the keys. Many dealers simply demand that a member of their staff accompany the potential buyer due to the possibility of vehicle theft and joyriding. But there’s also a much more practical reason the salesperson wants to accompany you: it gives them the perfect opportunity to explain the new car’s features and try to convince you to buy one.
In many cases, the dealership will offer a predefined test drive route, which frequently includes a variety of driving circumstances (city, interstate, twisting roads, hills, traffic, etc.) that allow potential buyers to see how the car responds to various situations. Frequently, the salesperson would take the wheel first to demonstrate and discuss the features of the car.
If the salesperson gets behind the wheel first, use this opportunity to become acquainted with the car’s comfort and convenience amenities, such as the seats, climate controls, and sound settings. Because you’ll want to concentrate on the driving experience when you’re behind the wheel, this is also a wonderful opportunity to ask questions. When you are a passenger in a car rather than the driver, you frequently receive a different perspective of the vehicle.
When you finally get to take the wheel, fight the urge to “jump in and go.” Make all the essential modifications first for safety and comfort. If available, completely adjust the foot pedals, steering wheel, seat belt, and mirrors.
Although the car should always be driven safely, it’s also critical to understand how it operates. Drive normally, paying particular attention to how the car handles when you accelerate, brake, and turn. Verify that there is adequate side visibility and that parking and backing up are both simple tasks. When reversing, pay close attention to your blind spots and make an effort to decrease or eliminate them by adjusting the mirrors.
After the test drive, spend some time examining the car closely. Check whether the front and back seats are comfy by sitting in them. Test any foldable, adjustable, or removable features on the seats to evaluate how simple they are to use. Finally, check out the cargo area or trunk. Check to see whether there is enough space for luggage for a lengthy trip and look for any special features, such a cargo net or hooks, that would be beneficial.
When the salesperson is behind the wheel, the test drive should take between 15 and 30 minutes. When you return to the dealership following the test drive, the salesperson may ask if you’re ready to make a purchase. If you need a few minutes or a few days to think over your alternatives, don’t be afraid to say so. Ask for a longer test drive if you don’t feel like you’ve had enough time behind the wheel to feel secure in your choice. If a buyer has previously had a brief test drive or is returning for a second visit, many dealerships are amenable to the concept of letting them borrow the car for the evening or the weekend.
It’s simple to get caught up in the thrill of buying a new car and forget about some things that are crucial to you. Make a list of the characteristics that are essential to your way of life before going to the dealership, and don’t let the salesperson, a friend, or even yourself talk you out of obtaining what you actually want.
In This Article...
Do Audi test drives last a full day?
Schedule a test drive of the Audi e-tron. A 24-hour test drive is obviously not something you can perform at random. Choose a day that fits your schedule the best for your 24-hour Audi e-tron test drive here.
What test drive is the longest?
The World’s Longest Test Drive Relay record was officially set by Kia Motors South Africa on Thursday, October 20, 2016, according to RecordSetter, powered by the brand-new Kia Sportage, which had its formal debut in South Africa on October 21. Over the course of seven days, the team traveled 3,291 kilometers through six South African provinces with 520 test drivers chosen from more than 30,000 applicants.
The test drive began on Friday, October 14 in Durban and ended on Thursday, October 20 at Cape Point. The voyage included a wide range of different experiences and activities, including getting to know KIA fans from all walks of life, visiting famous landscapes, waterfalls, and temples, leaping off the Bloukrans River Bridge, and taking in some of South Africa’s most breathtaking sites.
“When we set off on this world record attempt, our aim was not only to showcase the all-new Sportage to as many people as possible, but to give them a tangible and memorable experience while actually driving the car, says David Sieff, Marketing Director for Kia Motors South Africa. “All during the journey, there was a lot of enthusiasm, wonderful participation, and many unexpected moments for everyone. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this extraordinary experience possible.
The World’s Longest Test Drive involved a number of notable partners, and special thanks go out to vida e caff for keeping the crew and test drivers awake during the journey, to Butterfly Products for donating tons of desperately needed educational supplies to Itemeleng Primary School in Reddersberg, and to GoPro for candidly and authentically documenting every step of the journey.
When you order an Audi, how long does it take?
The appeal of special ordering as a method of purchasing or leasing a new Audi has grown. You can save money and get your new Audi personalized to your exact specifications by delaying just a few short months.
Many automobile purchasers may experience frustration while trying to locate their ideal vehicle because a new Audi can be customized in what seems like an infinite number of ways. The first option for any Audi dealer is to sell you one of the few cars they have available on their lot. Great if they have the one you desire. If not, you have three options: choose a car that is “near enough” on the lot, go to a different dealership and hope they have something that fits better, or order the car exactly how you want it. (Cartelligent can assist you in searching inventory across California (and beyond, if necessary) to discover the closest match, or you can place a special order for the vehicle of your dreams.)
What is a special order?
When a customer orders a particular car in the color and options they choose, it is known as a special order, or factory order. Typically, the buyer will select the vehicle’s characteristics online before placing an order with a salesperson at the dealership or through a car-buying service like Cartelligent, which assists customers with the procedure. Direct special orders for vehicles from Audi or the majority of other significant automakers are not accepted.
What are the benefits of a special order?
- Avoid paying for features you won’t utilize.
- You want the car set up a certain way.
- You’re looking for a car with little to no inventory currently available.
On each of these, we’ll elaborate:
If there isn’t enough of your desired car in stock, it could be tempting to choose an available model with comparable attributes. For instance, even though the only Moonlight Blue Metallic S8 you’ve discovered has the $3,000 rear DVD player you don’t really want, it can still be incredibly alluring. While ordering the car takes a little longer, you avoid paying for pricey options that you won’t use.
A new Audi can be customized in hundreds of different ways, unlike many other vehicles that can only be purchased in a limited number of packages.
Consider the Audi Q5 and Toyota Highlander as examples:
The likelihood that you’ll be able to find the Highlander XLE in Silver Sky Metallic in stock is very good considering that there are only seven trims and nine standard colors available. It will be considerably more challenging to find the Q5 Prestige SUV in Cuvee Silver Metallic with the Black Optic Package, though.
In this situation, purchasing the Audi specifically can be a great alternative that enables you to get the color and features you like.
Sometimes it might be very challenging to get a newer model at any dealership, such as the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, or a rare car, such as the R8. Your best options in this situation are to acquire the car on special or locate an other model that you like just as much.
How much can special ordering an Audi save?
Ordering a vehicle at the very least spares dealers the insurance, lot fees, and other expenses related to having a car sit in inventory. They may be more willing to bargain because the vehicle is less expensive than an in-stock model. Ordering also saves money by avoiding unnecessary fees for things that aren’t needed, as was mentioned above.
How long does a special order usually take?
Special ordering requires more time than purchasing a car off the lot. The bulk of Audi SUVs (made in the US) take between 6 to 10 weeks to complete, whereas German-produced cars take 8 to 12 weeks. For individuals who would want to enjoy driving their new car on Audi’s home ground, the company also offers pick-up of special orders in Germany (see European Delivery: Want a European holiday with your new car?).
How do I decide what I want?
The ordering process is made simple on the Audi website. They provide interactive elements so you can imagine the vehicle and choose exactly what you want. These capabilities let you compare and contrast options and colors. Your Cartelligent representative can also guide you through your choices so you can choose the ones that are most essential to you.
Can I still negotiate on the price of the vehicle?
Yes, however this ought to be done in advance of placing the order. It will be far more challenging to convince the Audi dealership to be flexible on price once you have placed your order for the car. However, the dealership might not be willing to haggle much on price if the vehicle has a low inventory and a strong demand because they can only order a certain number of vehicles.
Can I take advantage of current lease and finance incentives?
When you order a vehicle from Audi, you won’t be able to lock in the lease and financing rates, but you will be able to take advantage of any promotions that are running when the car is delivered.
How much money does it cost to place the order?
When placing an order, the majority of Audi dealers may ask for a deposit (Cartelligent clients very rarely pay this). If the customer ultimately decides not to buy the car when it is delivered, the deposit is normally refunded.
What happens if I change my mind?
Nothing Up until the moment you pick up the vehicle and sign the contract, you can change your mind at any time. If you made a fully refundable deposit, you ought to get your money back.
What if I need my new Audi immediately?
Special ordering is generally not the greatest choice if you require a new car right away. If the automobile you desire isn’t available, you’ll have to look at vehicles with comparable attributes that will suit your needs or make compromises on color and choices.
Can I lease an Audi that is special ordered?
Yes. Since our clients who are currently on leases know exactly when they will need a new car and can take advantage of that time frame to order the car exactly how they want it, we frequently advise special orders to them.
How do I place a special order?
To place your order and haggle over the price of your particular order, you must visit a dealer unless you use a car buying service like Cartelligent. Don’t let the automobile on the lot that is the wrong color and with the incorrect choices convince you to change your mind; be ready to stand your position. Instead of having to wait a few weeks for the commission on an ordered automobile, they would prefer to sell you a car that is currently in stock. Inform them that you are there to place an order and that you will need their assistance.
Special ordering might be a great option to get your new Audi set up precisely how you want it if you have flexibility with timing or can start the process ahead of when you need your new car. Whether you’re looking at a vehicle that is specially ordered or one that is already in stock, Cartelligent can help you find a great bargain on what you need. To get started, contact our team of car-buying professionals at 888-427-4270.