We have no association with Corban Automotive selling Alfa Romeo in Wollongong and in no way represent them.
Test driving
Pop the boot
Walk around the back of the car (unless the boot is up the front, of course!) and have a look inside. Is there enought space for the stuff you will need to carry there? Anything from prams to golf bags, or naughty kids (just kidding - that would be illegal!!)
How safe is the car?
Possibly the most important advance in safety since the introduction of seatbelts is ESC. ESC is short for Electronic Stability Control, a new safety technology that helps drivers to avoid crashes by reducing the danger of skidding. ESC reduces the risk of a single vehicle crash by more than 40%. Not all new cars are fitted with ESC. FCAI provides a list of those that do and those that don't. Make an informed choice!
How does it handle?
Does the vehicle give you a comfortable ride? Will you be happy with the feel? Make sure you test the vehicle over small bumps to feel how soft or firm it feels through the seat and the wheels. Very stiff suspension can result in significant body fatigue when you have to travel longer distances.
Automatic transmissions should be tested up hills to assess the response to kick down. Try pushing the throttle and check for passing power at low speed and well as highway speed. How does it respond at 60klms when compared to 90klms?
Noise considerations
Road and wind noise can be annoying - especially if you do a lot of driving. Turn the radio off when you get into the car. Around suburban streets, most cars will sound quiet but what is the engine and wind noise like on the highway or freeway? The best way for most people to check this is by way of comparing. Have a conversation at freeway speed and compare to your existing car, or a competitor to the car you are testing.
Remember to switch the radio on again at some point to check the quality of the sound. Many people like to bring their favourite CD and compare how it sounds in different cars.
