We have no association with Southern Highland Motor Group selling Mazda in Moss Vale and in no way represent them.
Test driving
Is the Mazda boot OK?
Don’t forget to have a look in the boot! Ideally, if you have a golf bag or a stroller than needs to fit in there, and you are not 100% sure it will fit; you should take it with you and make sure. Imagine the embarrassment if your stuff won't fit!!
How safe is the car?
Safety has become increasingly important to car buyers over the last 10 to 15 years. Airbags are important in the event of a crash, but make sure you consider preventive safety features as well. FCAI lists all cars sold with ESC available. ESC is possibly the most important advance in safety since the introduction of seatbelts.
Handling
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?
Sounds
Road and wind noise can seriously impair your ability to hear others in the car during conversations. Turn the radio off when you get into the vehicle. 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 it to your existing car, or a competitor to the car you are testing.
Remember to switch the radio on again at some point before end of the drive to check the quality of the sound. Many people like to bring their favourite CD and hear how it sounds in different cars.
