CR.ORG/CARS NEW CARS 9PH
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How to Get
the Most
Out of an
Auto Show
Even though no transactions
will take place, you should still
do some preparation before
heading to an auto show. If you
do your research, you’ll know
which cars you’ll want to check
out and what questions you’ll
want to ask.
Make a plan. Narrow down
the list of cars you’re interested in
before you get there. A good
place to start is the vehicle
profiles beginning on page 56.(^) Collaborate. Take ever yone
who will drive or ride in the car
with you, so they can all judge
comfort and ergonomics.
(^) Kid approved. If you have
kids, see how easy it is for them
to get into the car and use the
seat belts. That’s especially true
for models with third rows.
(^) Check the schedule. Make
sure the brands and cars
you want to see will be there;
they aren’t at every show.
And keep in mind that week-
ends and holidays may be
the busiest times.
Write it down. Remember
to take notes and pictures of
cars and features that you’re
interested in. Check whether
those features come standard
or are optional.
(^) Be open-minded. You should
look at a few models that are
just above and below your price
range. You might end up really
liking a car that wasn’t on your
original list.
(^) Take your time. Check out
the feel of the materials, the
comfort of the seats, and the
ease of getting in and out. Even
if there’s a crowd, make sure
you have enough time in a car
to form a valid opinion.
(^) Ask questions. The repre-
sentatives of different car brands
are trained to answer them,
and they won’t put pressure on
you to buy.