We have no association with Suttons Rosebery selling Holden in Rosebery and in no way represent them.
Test driving a Holden
Check the boot space
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!!
Is safety important?
Your car's safety performance in a crash could mean the difference between life and death for you, your passengers and other roads users. How Safe Is Your Car is a website where you can find information of how most cars rate in crash tests. It also explains ESC. ESC is short for Electronic Stability Control, a new safety technology that helps drivers to avoid crashes by reducing the danger of skidding.
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?
Noise considerations
Road noise can be annoying - especially if you do a lot of driving. Pay attention and turn the radio off. Around suburban streets, most vehicles 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 aspect 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 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.