It’s easy to go down a rabbit hole when looking for a new vehicle. You start off your search with a specific make in mind and end up looking at something completely different by the end of it. For some, they have an exact vehicle in mind that they have already settled for and for others, they have a general idea but are still exploring the vast sea of vehicle options available out there. It’s important to find a car that best suits your needs and wants as typically, vehicles are something most people keep for a significant amount of time and utilize frequently.
Unsure about what vehicle best suits your needs? Here is a car comparison guide for you to help you find the ride that will go hand-in-hand with your lifestyle!
First of all, what are some popular features Canadians are looking for in a new vehicle?
It’s no shock that vehicles have evolved substantially in the years and with that being said, the options are superfluous. Most new vehicles come with a wide array of safety, functionality, and aesthetic features that can up your driving game. Common features a plethora of Canadians look for when in the market for a new vehicle are;
- Added safety features – blind spot detection, lane departure warning, brake assist, etc
- Functionality features – heated seats/steering, park assist, back-up camera, navigation, etc
- Infotainment system
- Aesthetic appeal
- Seating – if you carry passengers frequently, options that provide comfort for both you and your passengers are a win
When deciding on a vehicle, there is a huge factor that many consider prior to anything else – body style. Before diving into the interior or added features, many first choose the type of vehicle they would like; sedan, SUV, coupe, hatchback, etc. Each vehicle body type has different benefits and suits various needs. With that being said, which vehicle type best suits your individual needs?
Step Into A Sedan
Sedans make up a substantial portion of the market, so much so, when people hear the word car, most think of a sedan. A majority of vehicle makers have sedan models available ,as their traditional look bodes well with consumers. Aside from aesthetic appeal, sedans boast a number of other features that may play to your interests. In regards to fuel economy, a number of sedan models contain some of the best on the market with an array of economical options that won’t cost an arm and a leg at the pump.
Most sedans follow similar dimensions; lower than SUVs meaning more headroom for taller drivers, and a decent amount of trunk space. Sedans are a great option for the everyday traveler or city-traveler. When compared to SUVs, they do not possess the same space, hence, why they are a highly considerable option for those who are not constantly moving significant cargo. If you are looking for a model you can drive day-in and day-out without breaking the bank, sedans are a great option to go with.
Scope Out An SUV
Alongside sedans, SUVs (sports utility vehicles) are one of the most popular makes among consumers. SUVs are very prevalent in Canada, as the increase in size and capabilities in bad weather make for a safer ride in the eyes of the driver. Although SUVs may cost more to fill up at the pump, the plethora of benefits may override that. SUVs have more cargo space which is great for families and/or those who carry a large amount of cargo (i.e., hockey bags, equipment) on a consistent basis. Most SUVs now come in AWD and 4×4 options, making them a great vehicle for all seasons and all types of weather. It doesn’t just stop at SUVs however, there are various styles that have the same features as regular SUVs in their own unique way including;
- Crossovers: Unlike regular SUVs which are built on the same platform as a truck, a crossover is based on a car’s design which means body and frame are built as one combined piece.
- Compact/Subcompact SUVs: these contain the same features of a regular SUV under a smaller roof. Their size typically falls between a hatchback and an SUV. If you are looking for an SUV, but don’t want something too big, consider a compact/subcompact SUV
- Full-size SUV: opposite of compact/subcompact SUVs, full-size SUVs boast the most space in their class.
Coast In A Coupe or Convertible
Whilst some focus solely on the functionality of a vehicle, others simply want to ride in style. Coupes and convertibles are a great option for those who don’t need a lot of space but are looking for something more sporty.
Coupes are two-door vehicles with a sporty style. Whilst coupes are two-door vehicles, most do have seating in the back, however, they aren’t the most spacious. Compared to convertibles, coupes are lighter and are branded with hard-top as opposed to a soft-top. Coupes fall in between the lines of a sedan and a convertible; offering a fun, sporty feel whilst still encompassing traits of a sedan. Coupes are a viable option if you tend to drive alone or with one other person, are looking for a sporty-vehicle, and you don’t carry passengers or significant cargo frequently.
Convertibles are two-door vehicles that take the sporty vibe to the next level. The main difference between a coupe and a convertible is the roof. Coupes possess a hard top whereas convertibles possess a soft top that can be fully taken down. Albeit, convertibles aren’t exactly the poster car for wet or snowy months, they are great for those hot summer days where opening a window just doesn’t seem like enough. Convertibles are a great option if you are looking for a separate ride for the hot months and want to truly engulf yourself in the beauty of summer!
Hop Into A Hatchback
Think smaller vehicles means less cargo space? Think again! Don’t let the small exterior of a hatchback fool you, they are extremely spacious on the inside. Most hatchbacks have more cargo space when compared to sedans, which isn’t obvious at first glance. They also offer a slightly higher roofline than sedans, meaning more headroom for passengers. But what’s the benefit of the small exterior? If you live in a big city such as Toronto or Montreal, you know parking can be sparse and you are often left trying to park your vehicle in a spot that proves way too small. Hatchbacks are great for congested cities as their small exterior makes it easier to navigate through highly saturated streets and fit into even the tightest of parking spots.
Pick up a Pickup
Looking for something that is as durable as durable gets? Opt for a pick-up truck! These vehicles are made to handle the toughest of elements – whether you are driving along snow snow-blanketed streets or off-roading on dirt trails. Of course, cargo is a main plus for pickups as they possess a huge bed in the back solely dedicated to carrying cargo that wouldn’t fit in any other type of vehicle such as; heavy construction materials, furniture, and even ATVs! Pickup trucks are best suited for those who don’t carry passengers frequently but do carry heavy or large cargo on a consistent basis.
Live In Luxury
We can’t lie, riding around in a car dripping in luxury is a great feeling. Although luxury cars are not as popular as other makes, they are still adored by consumers. The major drawback of luxury vehicles is evident in the title alone; the more luxurious, the higher the cost. Albeit, the cost is backed up by the quality of these vehicles. Everything down to the stitching in the seats is carefully articulated when it comes to luxury vehicles. Similar to SUVs, there are various sub-bodies of luxury vehicles; entry-level, mid-size, and full-size luxury vehicles are all readily available on the market. If your main selling point is style, a luxury vehicle will NOT disappoint!
Evolving Into Electric
Although not so prevalent just a few years back, electric vehicles have been taking the car world by storm! Many car makers have adapted to electric, creating hybrid and fully electric models. Electric vehicles are available in many styles including sedan, SUV, luxury, and roadster (still in the works). These are copious benefits when it comes to owning an electric vehicle. The obvious being, you are doing good for the environment as electric vehicles rely on batteries, not fuel. The cost of charging is also significantly less than filling up at the pump, meaning going electric can not only be a saving factor in the environment but your wallet as well!
Once you are decided on a vehicle body-type that best suits your needs, you can then dig further into all the other features and functionalities you desire in your new vehicle. The body-type you choose makes a significant difference when it comes to your own individual driving experience.
Have your next new vehicle already mapped out? We can save you thousands on your purchase! Contact us today and save big!