July 8th, 2009 by Hal Moses
There are hundreds of new vehicles on the market, which can make it difficult for car buyers to choose what is best for them. Many people tend to base their decision on looks alone, but this is a dangerous way to decide on a car. So, what other considerations should motorists make?
The first factor to consider is how much money you intend to spend. Figure out what your maximum amount is before going to the dealership and stick with it. Also, make sure to include everything in the bottom line, such as interest, taxes, finance charges, insurance and new car warranties. You need to factor in all of these expenses.
Also determine if you need a fuel-efficient car. Some models rate much higher on fuel efficiency and if you have a long commute to work this might be an important factor.
Consider safety features. Does the car you are looking at have side-curtain air bags, brake assist, stability control? Also, how were the scores on crash tests?
Finally, do you need a lot of space? If you have a large family you might want to think about a minivan or SUV that has ample passenger room and cargo space.
Do your homework before getting to the dealership so you know what you are looking for. In addition, make sure to get an auto warranty so you can protect your wallet in case of unforeseen repair costs down the road.
July 4th, 2009 by Hal Moses
For three months, Suzuki is offering an incentive of free gas to any consumer who buys a 2009 Suzuki SX4 crossover or sedan. In addition, it is offering a cash-back incentive of $2,000 on the SX4 models that come with a manual transmission. Both deals are good through Aug. 31.
Suzuki’s offer of free gas might not be as effective as the gas offers that were around last year. At only $2.63 per gallon around the nation, fuel prices don’t even come close to last year’s $4 per gallon. Gas prices just aren’t as scary as they were in 2008. And in terms of real money, the pre-paid fuel cars only equal about $300.
And as a general rule, giving people three free months of gas isn’t near as good as making a car that is more efficient. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla both eat up the SX4’s lunch when you’re talking about fuel economy and come with great new car warranties.
June 30th, 2009 by Hal Moses
One way to improve our world would be to alleviate road rage. Everyone has gotten angry with another driver after being cut off. Wouldn’t it be great if we all had cars that helped curb road rage? Well, those vehicles have arrived.
Toyota’s RIN has friendliness in mind. It has wide, deep windows that allow the driver to stay connected with the environment. The headlights on the car have controls for light distribution that allow the driver to be considerate to other drivers. It even has features that reflect the psychological state that the driver is in, such as the steering wheel that is “mood trained†and displays that promote the mental health of the driver.
The Toyota i-REAL offers pedestrians added safety. It is a solo transport that offers maneuverability because it sits upright. This allows the driver to be at eye level with pedestrians. Also, it will stretch out its wheels making it more aerodynamic and stable when you want to travel long distances.
The time has come when automakers are realizing that vehicle design can have an impact on how friendly people are. Toyota is making great strides in accommodating fellow drivers and passengers to make our world a friendlier place. Consumers are willing to pay extra money on car costs that will make their lives easier, such as new car warranties, insurance, and even friendlier cars.
June 27th, 2009 by Hal Moses
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that small cars aren’t as safe as big vehicles, back in 1997. Yet, today there are more small cars than ever. Small vehicles aren’t the only way to accomplish fuel-efficiency and reduced emissions. There are now light construction materials that can accomplish this feat on larger vehicles. In fact, making a vehicle lightweight will improve safety. A car that is lightweight is more nimble than a heavy car, allowing motorists to avoid accidents and road service calls.
Many people make the assumption that weight and size of a vehicle go hand in hand. This isn’t necessarily true. Lightweight, strong materials, like carbon fiber tend to be expensive, however, certain high-end automakers are implementing it on roofs and hoods.
The Smart ForTwo is using plastic door panels. The doors won’t ding or scratch, and are reinforced internally with steel bars. This gives the best protection in the instance of a side impact, yet it is more lightweight than a conventional door.
Small vehicle sales are at an all time high in the U.S. Currently, the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit are the top sellers. Although consumers will have to pay more for big vehicles that are lightweight, it is worth it because of safety. In addition, motorists should have good new car warranties to protect themselves.
June 27th, 2009 by Hal Moses
When purchasing new cars consumers should do their homework to ensure that they are getting the best deal possible. Here are three important tips that will allow you to avoid unnecessary costs.
First of all, look around to find a dealership that is good. You can do this by looking on the Internet and reading blogs about dealerships. Web searches will provide you with a lot of information. A lot of times positive revues or complaints will give you an indication of how a dealership operates. In addition, make contact with three dealerships in your vicinity to see how quickly they respond.
Second, don’t let dealers talk you in to dealer financing or alarm systems. These two things will cost you in the end. For example, auto manufacturers have already installed wiring. However, automakers will then sell alarms for around $1,200 separately. This will be added on to the new vehicle purchase price. Also, finance offices at dealerships typically don’t provide the best deals. It would be a better idea to seek financing elsewhere and put your extra money towards an auto warranty.
Finally, you can save money by selling your car yourself. Don’t trade it in at the dealership because you probably won’t get as much money for it.
These simple tips will help you save money if you are planning to purchase a new vehicle. Also, realize that new car warranties should be an essential part of your purchase so you are protected from unnecessary repair costs.
June 20th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Everyone has heard of certified used cars, however, Toyota is going to introduce a certified used car program exclusive to hybrids. This will be the first program of its kind among carmakers.
Toyota is hoping that the added inspection and new car warranties will spike consumer confidence in pre-owned hybrid cars by guaranteeing that the cars receive a three-month/3,000 mile comprehensive auto warranty. In addition, the cars will have a limited powertrain warranty for seven-years/100,000 miles, a roadside assistance program and a detailed battery system inspection.
This will be huge for consumer confidence because some motorists fear that the battery life could become a big issue for hybrid vehicles. Toyota now provides an eight-year/100,000 mile warranty for its hybrid batteries.
June 16th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Often motorist get sticker shock or experience buyer’s remorse after buying a new car. However, you can avoid this by considering the expenses that you will encounter in the future.
According to experts, most consumers anticipate the price of the purchase, registration and taxes. However, many people forget to factor in the price of insurance and new car warranties. Fortunately, by doing your homework you can get good deals on insurance and an auto warranty.
To control car costs drivers should consider these tips. First of all, decide before you get to the dealership the amount of money that you can spend. Also, decide on what type of car will suit your needs. It is also beneficial to get quotes from several dealers, because then you are in the position to negotiate. Finally, check insurance and auto warranty prices on the vehicle that you want to purchase.
You don’t have to go broke purchasing a new car. But, be smart and consider all of the costs involved. It isn’t just the purchase price that you will be paying.
June 13th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Recently, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners did a study on the best and worst places in the country for auto insurance. The study showed that drivers living in the Northeast pay the highest premiums.
The most costly state was New Jersey. Its average premiums are more that $1,300 per year. Our nations capital, Washington D.C. came in second with the average premiums over $1,185. New York came in third with average premiums being over $1,110.
The study showed that elevated insurance costs in those areas are due to urban driving matters, high salaries, and dense traffic. Also, costs for the liability insurance premiums that are average are elevated in the Northeast.
Northern and Midwestern states ranked as the lowest costs for insurance premiums. Iowa has the lowest overall insurance at $530 per year. Maine comes in second with $560 per year, and North Dakota is next at $570 per year.
This study shows that your location plays a key role in your auto insurance costs. Consumers are paying more than ever for their automobiles with the costs of insurance, new car warranties, and maintenance.
June 13th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Volvo Cars of North America came out with the C30 R-design, limited edition, which is priced at $25,700.
The C30 R-Design is a similar, yet more outstanding version of the latest C30 hatchback. This car has the power, to accompany its new updated look. The engine is 227-horsepower, and it puts out 236 ft per pound of torque.
This car comes in four colors- Titanium Grey, Black Sapphire, Passion red, and Orinoco Blue. The interior of the vehicle is very sporty. The seats are black flex-tech with a cream trim in leather. Also trimmed in this leather are the shifter and steering wheel. The stock pedals have also been replaced with sport ones.
Consumers are excited about this car model that provides the options for a Dynaudio sound system, and a navigation system based on DVD. In addition, to spending money on new car warranties and maintenance, consumers are willing to shell out money for these latest technologies.
June 13th, 2009 by Hal Moses
The U.S. has been sideswiped by high gas prices and a poor economy. Car companies have had to reconfigure their lineups to accompany this shift. Consumers are staying away from gas-guzzlers and instead purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles with a good auto warranty. Here are the three most fuel-efficient vehicles in America.
The #1 most fuel-efficient car is the Toyota Prius. This car has impressive fuel economy at 45 mpg on the highway and 48 mpg in the city. Also, the base price of the Prius is unbeatable at $22,160. Hollywood types giving it iconic status made this vehicle popular.
Next on the list is the Honda Civic Hybrid. This car appeals to people who don’t want to publicize their environmentalism because of its classy look. The Civic Hybrid handles more like a typical car than other hybrids and is very responsive. This vehicle has great fuel economy at 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway, and the price is right at $23,270.
Coming in at 3rd is the minuscule Smart fortwo. An amazingly small vehicle that makes parking a snap. Not much acceleration in this tiny package, so you better put the pedal to the metal on highway on-ramps. Great price though at 12,272.
With fuel prices on the rise, fuel-efficient vehicles are in demand. Consumers are trying to protect their wallets by purchasing small cars that offer good fuel economy and by buying new car warranties. After all, you don’t want to get stuck with unnecessary repair costs down the road.