How to choose a sedan
Content
There are many different categories of vehicles on the market today, and one of the most sought after is the full-size sedan. Sedans are cars with four doors and a trunk, not a sunroof or tailgate.
Even among full-size sedans there are different variations:
- Entry-level full-size sedans
- Family sedans
- Luxury full-size sedans
- Sports sedans
While the overall design of a full-size sedan is the same from model to model, the vehicle's options vary greatly. You can choose a sedan with a manual, fuel-efficient powertrain, high-performance engine, fuel-efficient fabric interior, premium leather interior and basic power features inside, or a host of luxurious amenities and comforts.
You'll need to narrow down your options to find the full-size sedan that's right for you. Here's how to choose a full-size sedan to suit your situation.
Part 1 of 4: Decide on a budget for your full-size sedan
Because the options offered by many car manufacturers vary greatly, selling prices can also vary. If you're looking for a luxury sedan, you can easily spend six figures on a car. Determining a realistic budget for your vehicle will help you narrow down your options.
Step 1. Determine how much you can afford to spend on a car. Use an online calculator such as the one provided by USNews to determine how much you can afford to spend on a car.
Enter the amount you can spend on the car, your down payment, the value of your new car trade-in item, your state sales tax, the interest rate you expect to receive, and the loan term you want.
Click "Update Price" to see how much you can spend on a full size car.
Step 2: Pay as much as you can for the down payment. This will increase the total cost of the purchase that you can afford.
The down payment directly increases the value of the car you can buy by exactly the same amount.
Step 3. Consider maintenance and repair costs over time.. Make sure you leave enough money for yourself each month to pay for these expenses.
Your budget will dictate which cars you can consider buying. A smaller budget will be able to consider economy models from domestic and Asian brands, while a higher budget opens up options including domestic, Asian and European-made premium models, as well as luxury full-size sedans from more exotic or luxury brands. .
Part 2 of 4: Determine the purpose of buying a sedan
You have a reason to look for a full-size sedan, and that reason can help you narrow down your search.
Step 1: Consider family-friendly options.. If you're looking for a car for yourself and your young family, you might want to consider a car with easy-to-clean leather or vinyl rear seats, as well as a car with rear entertainment features such as DVD players in the headrests.
Step 2. Consider travel time. If you're looking for a full-size commute vehicle, look for one with a smaller engine that's well rated for combined fuel economy.
Step 3: Think about the desired image. Whether you're looking for a luxury car or a car that shows your status, look for premium or luxury models from well-known car brands to stand out from the crowd.
Step 4: Think About Your Desired Driving Experience. If you want to experience invigorating performance, find a car with a large V8 or supercharged V6 engine that will satisfy your need for speed.
Part 3 of 4: Determine the features you want in your car
Vehicle specifications are constantly changing. Previously, only premium cars had options like power windows and door locks, but now virtually every full-size sedan will come with a plethora of electrical amenities. Below are some of the key features that every full-size sedan is equipped with.
Step 1. Determine if you need basic features. Whether you're looking for an economy car or basic transportation for a few adults, these basic features are the way to go.
Step 2: Consider Additional Options. You may be interested in a sunroof, heated seats or leather interior.
These features will make driving more comfortable while keeping your budget moderate.
Step 3 Consider luxury features for your full-size sedan.. These features include cooled seat surfaces, woodgrain interior details, a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control and navigation.
Luxury features enhance your driving experience and set you apart from the simpler cars on the market.
Part 4 of 4. Select Make and Model
There are dozens of automakers to choose from when it comes to full-size sedans. Your choice will be based on your budget and desired performance, as well as the purpose of buying a full-size sedan. Listed below are a few popular full-size sedans from different brands, depending on the price point:
When you buy a full-size sedan, don't get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car. Think logically about your decision to make sure you buy the right car for your needs. A good seller may suggest a different car that you haven't considered before, but that might even better suit your needs, so keep an open mind.
