Written by: Tim Marsh

Okay, so you’ve fallen in love with a new car. Or perhaps there are a couple of other used cars being advertised that have caught your eye. Either way, it probably means you need to sell your existing car. We’ve put together a handy guide on how to sell a used car, and the differences between selling your car privately, and doing a car trade in. It’s also important to understand your used car value, in order to get the best deal.

The advantages of selling privately

If you’re looking to get as much profit as possible when you sell a used car, and you’re not in a hurry to close the deal, then a private sale might be more up your alley.

You will, however, have to do a fair bit of work, and spend quite a bit of time in order to get the best price. You will need to take care of any necessary repairs, take good photos of the vehicle and advertise in the right places, make appointments, handle the haggling over the price, and manage the payment arrangements and the paperwork, ensuring that the legalities are met.

It can take some time to sell a used car, so it’s also important that you’re not in a hurry, or chances are, you won’t get as much as you might have hoped for. While selling privately can be more profitable, it’s definitely not always a stress-free experience, and the actual selling part might not be your thing, so it’s important to weigh up both options.

The advantages of trading your car in

Predominantly, people turn to a car trade in either because they have fallen in love with a car in the dealership lot, or they want to cut out a lot of the fuss associated with selling a used car privately.

When you trade in your car, the dealership or car broker handles a lot of the paperwork. You’ll only need to have one conversation, and there’s likely to be less haggling involved with trading in your car than selling it privately.

This option is usually best if you’re time poor, and you don’t want to have to show the car to a number of people before selling.

Trading in your car is a plus in terms of security – you might not want strangers coming to your home. It’s also a safer option when it comes to money, as you can guarantee payment, rather than having cheques bounce, or other payment issues.

There are a number of people who can help you with a trade in, from dealers to car brokerage services such as New Cars Plus, for example. New Cars Plus can take care of everything from car repairs, and the photography, advertising and marketing, to the appointments, follow-up calls, buyer inspections, mechanical inspections, and negotiation and payment – which can help make the experience seamless and hassle-free.

Trade-in used car option

The last thing to mention, no matter whether you’re looking to sell or trade in, is the importance of knowing your used car value. You’ll need to do some online research and look at what similar vehicles sell for. Be realistic about the condition of your car as well. There’s no point in asking top price if it’s travelled 200,000kms, for example, or it’s a basic model, without any frills.

Knowing to how to sell a used car isn’t an innate skill, so the more information you can arm yourself with, the better. Have your information and research on hand during the process, and you’ll be better prepared for a more successful outcome, whether that’s getting the best possible price in a private sale, or getting a good trade in deal on a brand spanking new car.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Written by: Tim Marsh

If a good car mechanic has become as elusive as the Loch Ness monster, don’t despair. If you’re wondering how to find car repair that is both effective and reliable, here are some of our top tips to help you find the right car mechanic for your needs.

Define ‘good’

First of all, it’s worthwhile clarifying what you believe a good car mechanic looks like. Is it a business that offers lower prices, or one that offers the highest quality repairs? Do you value convenience over price (is it more important that your mechanic is local?), or are you searching for a mechanic who offers useful educational advice and tips to help keep your car in the best condition, so it’s on the road for longer?

Narrow down what you’re looking for, so you have a list of ‘must-haves’ that your chosen car mechanic should fulfil.

Check your warranty

Before you start your search for the perfect mechanic, you should also double-check your warranty. Dealerships occasionally offer complimentary servicing for the first few years of your car’s life, so it’s worth checking if you’re eligible for any discounts or offers.

Word of mouth

Next, ask friends and family about their experiences with car mechanics. Ask questions like; were you happy with the end result, was the mechanic easy to deal with, and did the cost seem fair?

The question of how to find car repair isn’t unique, which is why it’s beneficial to ask around and discover how people you know answered it. And remember, just because someone describes a mechanic as fantastic, this doesn’t mean they’re definitely right for you. Keep in mind that you still have to compare their review to your internal set of ‘must-haves’.

Tips on how to find a good car mechanic

Google it

Once you have some good recommendations from friends and family, or even if you need a starting point in your search, you can hop online for reviews and recommendations.

Social media is incredibly useful for unearthing relevant feedback on loads of service professionals, including mechanics. Sites like Yelp, the Yellow Pages, Truelocal and even Google Places can help you see what other people think of a business, and narrow down your search.

Be mindful though, that not all online recommendations are reliable or accurate. It’s probably more useful to go for a car mechanic who has a good overall rating, rather than a mechanic with just one standout review.

Interview time

Once you’ve identified a few mechanics that you believe fit your requirements, it’s advantageous to have a quick, informal phone interview with them. You can tell a lot about a business’s commitment to customer service by the way a non-paying customer is handled.

Check on the mechanic’s warranty period, and whether it covers parts and labour, check their registered affiliations, and even do a drive-by to determine the quality of their workshop. Clean (as clean as a workshop can be!), and well ordered is a good sign. Be mindful of how the mechanic treats you, and whether he or she is willing to offer advice, and a range of options and alternatives. All these are marks of a good car mechanic.

And last but not least, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel quite right, then keep searching. The perfect car mechanic is out there, just waiting for your business.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Written by: Tim Marsh

Senior executives need to look successful, but not showy. They need to appear sophisticated, without being perceived as gaudy. And their car needs to reflect exactly the right image.
For understated luxury, that says we understand the good things in life, but we’re not interested in being overextended, why not consider an Audi A7, a BMW 5 Series in the form of the Gran Turismo 5, or even a new Mercedes, such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS 350? For more on these elegant but discreet luxury cars, read on.

BMW 535 Gran Turismo
The first boxer in the ring is the Gran Turismo 5. Starting at a cool $98,261 (plus a luxury car tax of $12,638.40), this car offers a whole lot of bang for the bucks.

Under the bonnet is a 3-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine, driven by an eight-speed automatic in rear-wheel drive.
The engine pumps out 225kW/306hp, and turns in a time of 6.3 seconds for the 0 to 100km/h sprint.

The BMW 5 Series comes complete with all the standard gadgets, such as Bluetooth, the BMW iDrive electronics system, iPod/USB connectivity, dual-zone climate control, automatic wipers, parking sensors, and a voice recognition navigation system.
Safety features include antilock disc brakes, side curtain and front-seat side airbags, brake fade compensation, hill-assist, and stability and traction control.

2013 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Image:egmcartech.com

Mercedes-Benz CLS 350CDI

Next up is the new Mercedes-Benz CLS 350. Skidding in at a starting price of $139,855, (plus a rather hefty luxury car tax, which brings it up to $171,091.34) the CLS Mercedes is a dizzying option that strikes just the right note for many a senior executive.

With a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine, it will come as no surprise that the CLS 350 pushes out 225kW/370Nm, with a 0 to 100 time of 6.7 seconds. The power is controlled by a rear-wheel drive, and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features in the CLS Mercedes include Bluetooth, cruise control, electronic stability program, reversing camera, rear parking sensors and USB connectivity.

To cover safety, the CLS 350 offers ABS, acceleration skid control, attention assist, brake assist, an LED intelligent light system, lane keeping assist, hill assist and blind spot assist.

Mercedes-Benz CLS 350CDI Image carsite.co.uk

 Audi A7

Last but not least, the Audi A7 price slips into the middle ground with a starting cost of $135,750.
Both the TDI and TDI Biturbo models offer a turbocharged V6 diesel engine, with a common rail injection system, while the TFSI is a supercharged V6 with direct fuel injection.

Expect 180kW/580Nm for the TDI, 230kW/650Nm for the TDI Biturbo, and 228kW/440Nm for the TFSI. 0 to 100 times range from 5.3 seconds in the TDI Biturbo model, to 5.6 seconds in the TFSI model, and 6.3 in the TDI.
Gadgets included in the Audi A7 price include Audi drive select, Multi Media Interface, four-zone automatic air conditioning, multifunction steering wheel and seat heating. The Audi also has a nifty heads-up display as an optional extra, which projects a colour, virtual image inside the windscreen.

Safety features include active lane assist and side assist, as well as adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, and Audi pre sense for preventative passenger protection and traffic monitoring.

2013 Audi A7

Verdict

Overall, the contenders are pretty equally matched, and while the Audi and the BMW do offer slightly more value for money, there are definite benefits to all three vehicles. At the end of the day, the final decision might simply be matter of personal taste.
For those searching for the ultimate luxury car buying experience, purchasing a car through a broker can help ensure quality service, and a smooth buying process. At New Cars Plus, we have helped thousands of clients find their perfect cars, and get the best possible deal.

We act on behalf of our clients to not only find the right car, and get the best price, but ensure that our clients walk away feeling like they’ve had the best possible experience – from having the car delivered to their door for a test drive, to receiving the keys, and a complimentary tank of petrol after purchase.
Questions? Comments? Please leave us a note below, and we’ll answer as soon as possible.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Written by: Tim Marsh

Looking to buy a new car? Although finding the perfect car can take a little work, doing your research beforehand can ensure that you get the best possible new car deal.

So, where do you start? Well, besides choosing a car that meets your needs, you’ll also need to stick within your designated price range – even if it’s tempting to indulge!

And before signing on the dotted line, it’s also essential to check out a few final details to ensure you don’t get hit with any unexpected fees or delays when you’re trying to get your new vehicle on the road.

Choosing the right car for you

It might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s important to figure out what you need, and stick to it. Buying a car is usually an emotional decision, but there’s no point coveting the sporty red number you see at the car yard if you have three kids to ferry around. Consider things like how often and where you drive, how much space you need for equipment, luggage or passengers, fuel economy, the cost of insurance premiums, and of course, the purchase price.

How many kilometres has it done?

Although this is a standard question for second-hand car buyers, it should also be one of the top questions for anyone looking for a new car. Don’t assume that new cars won’t have travelled. The fact is, when you buy a new car, it may have already clocked up more than a few kilometres through test-drives at one or more dealers. If you’re looking at more than 450km, ask for a car discount.

Five Questions to Ask Before Signing a New Car Deal

What about add-ons?

New cars can be fitted with a range of add-ons when they are built, and a dealer may offer extras to make a car more attractive to a buyer. Things like after market alarms, mud flaps, tinted windows and metallic paint options are often on offer. When you buy a new car, always ask for a list of add-ons, check what is already included in the advertised price, and ask what will cost extra.

What fees and charges do I need to know about?

There will be the vehicle purchase price with or without additional add-ons, and then fees and charges. Legitimate charges that you will usually be asked to pay when you buy a new car include stamp duty, registration costs (most dealers do the registration paperwork for you), insurance, the luxury car tax (depending on the price of the car), and dealer delivery. Dealer delivery charges vary, and typically include the cost of detailing the vehicle, compliance, and administration, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.

When can I expect delivery?

When negotiating a new car deal, always confirm whether the car is on site. If you are looking for a specific colour or extras, a dealer may offer to provide it for you, but that can involve an exchange with another car yard, and a little extra waiting time. It is a good idea to confirm the waiting time with the dealer in writing before you accept the deal.

And when you’ve found your ideal new car deal, check to see if the dealer will deliver. It may not always be a viable option, but it’s a definite bonus when possible.

You also might want to consider using a car broker, instead of going around to different dealers. A car broker can find you the car that you want, bring it to your door for a test drive, and if you decide to buy, deliver it to you with a full tank of fuel.

Finally, it’s worth remembering that deals aren’t set in stone until you sign on the dotted line. If you’re well informed you’ll be in a much better position to negotiate a good new car deal and drive away with your wallet – and dignity – intact.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

The Lowdown on DIY Auto: Knowing How to fix a Car

Written by: Tim Marsh

While regular professional maintenance is recommended to keep your vehicle in tip-top condition, trips to the mechanic for every automotive fix can add up. Knowing a little DIY auto repair is a valuable tool that can save you time and money.

Although there’s a lot of information available on how to carry out small car maintenance or basic car repair jobs, there’s no need for you to spend hours or weeks trying to learn it all. Just read on to discover some of the key areas worth focusing on.

 Broken lights and fuses

A blown bulb in a headlight, taillight or brake light need not mean a trip to the car repair workshop every time. Replacement bulbs and fuses are readily available from automotive stores, and you’ll generally just need a screwdriver to remove the lamp cover.

Check your car manual, as the position of bulbs and fuses will vary for each model. If you can’t access the bulb readily, than it may still be worth a trip to the mechanic.

 Tyre pressure

There are two points here. One, it’s easy to check and keep tyres at the correct level yourself. Most service stations have ‘air stations’ for you to check the air level of your tyres. For the correct level of air required for your car, look on the driver’s side door. When the door is open, most cars will display a small sticker that lists the recommended air levels.

Secondly, driving with deflated tyres, or the incorrect tyre pressure, can impact on your fuel economy potentially adding hundreds of dollars to your fuel bill over the course of a year. By keeping an eye on your tyres, you will reduce tyre wear and tear, as well as ongoing fuel costs.

5 basic car fixes that you can do yourself

 Tyre rotation

Due to regular braking, front tyres will generally wear faster than the two rear ones. It’s recommended to rotate your tyres regularly, so that you can prolong the life of the tyres. Tyre rotation at a workshop will usually cost between $40 and $50.

To rotate them yourself, you need only use your car jack to remove and swap the tyres over. And while you’re there, why not examine your tyres closely for any signs of defects or other issues?Set aside an hour to complete this bit of automotive maintenance.

 Air filter replacement

Air filters can be purchased at most automotive shops, and will take only five minutes to change with the aid of a screwdriver. It’s recommended to change them regularly as a blocked filter can push dirt into the engine,impacting fuel economy and its general condition. If you live or drive regularly in dusty areas or on country roads, you are advised to check filters more frequently.

 Oil change

This is one of the more technical car maintenance tasks, but you don’t need to know how to fix a car to carry it out. If you’re confident enough, you can master the skill, and it can save you money. You’ll need to purchase engine oil and an oil filter, and have access to tools; including a jack, socket wrench, oil filter wrench, bottles and pans to catch the old oil, rags and definitely rubber gloves. Be prepared: it’s messy. Schedule at least an hour for this automotive fix.

Knowing how to perform some basic maintenance and how to repair a car (well small basic repairs at least!) is something every driver should master. Make sure you do your research beforehand though, and if it feels the repair is beyond your skill set, leave it to a professional.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Facts on fuel consumption & a few ways that can help you save

Written by: Tim Marsh

Vehicle running costs can be expensive, so any opportunity to save on petrol consumption is a good thing. Buying a fuel-efficient car is, of course, the first step in saving on petrol costs, but it’s not the only one. With some planning, it is possible for you to reduce your fuel consumption and therefore you costs. Here are just a few points worth remembering.

Vehicle maintenance

Keeping your car in good condition can help save on repair and maintenance costs, and can result in better fuel economy. Cars are generally more fuel-efficient when you replace worn tyres, ensure tyre pressure is kept to optimum levels, and have a regular wheel balance and alignment check. A regular service is of course a wise move for any car owner, to help keep your vehicle performing as it should, and to help save your wallet from sudden major repairs.

Driving style

Every driver should strive to be a safe driver at all times, for the sake of all road users. Additionally, your driving style can save you money on petrol consumption. Regular and sudden stops and starts will chew up more fuel, even in fuel economy cars. Drive a little slower and steadily for better fuel performance.

How To Decrease Your Fuel Consumption Image credit: drivingford.in

Choice of vehicle

Drivers have a lot more choice these days when it comes to fuel-efficient cars. Take your time to do your research to ensure you have all the facts on the makes and models that offer better fuel consumption. Weigh this up with the purchase price, and probable maintenance costs, before buying.

Buying a fuel-efficient car doesn’t have to mean buying a hybrid, either. Many prestige manufacturers also now specialise in fuel-efficient cars. BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz offer eco models that run at less than 7.5 litres per 100kms. The end result is better efficiency, and with the luxury car tax threshold now sitting at 75K instead of 60K, better affordability.

Buying better

Of course, another way to save on petrol costs is to buy wisely. Online resources such as the NRMA website can advise you on the best – and worst – petrol prices across Sydney and NSW, for any given week. They can also let you know the best day to buy your petrol, as prices do fluctuate not merely from one town or suburb to the next, but from one day to the next.

Being savvy with your choices can help lower your petrol consumption.

Fuel-efficient cars are the first step, but the way you shop, maintain your car, and even your driving style, can all help to lower your fuel costs, and have a positive impact on your wallet.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Selling a car and getting the best price can be tricky, so understanding what the process involves is important. If you are looking to sell your car, then take the time to plan it properly. While you might be keen for cash, rushing in is not likely to garner you the best price – a little time and effort is likely to get you a much better deal. Here are our 10 steps to successfully sell a car.

Research – Knowing the value of your car is vital. You’ll obviously need to look at other vehicles of the same make and model, age and with similar mileage to yours. Consider also when the registration is due.

Price – Set a realistic price based on other car sales Sydney-wide and be sure to factor in five to 10% for negotiation. Remember that your car is probably worth more if it has special features, or lower mileage.

Place – There are various ways to sell a car, such as trade-in, consignment, auction and private sale. The former options may be quicker and easier while the latter may get you a better price. Look at on-line car sale sites, and consider the readership.

Repair – If you’re looking to sell your car, you need to prepare. Ideally, repair anything that needs to be fixed, however weigh up any major repairs against the likelihood of getting that money back in the sale.

10-steps guide on how to sell a car

Clean – If you’re selling, car cleanliness shouldn’t be underestimated. Clean thoroughly inside and out, under the bonnet, and in the boot.

Write – Write a clear and concise ad that lists all the pertinent details.

Photograph – Car sales, Sydney–wide rely on quality photographs that best show off your vehicle. Poor quality shots are likely to deter buyers.

Prepare – Be ready for interested buyers with questions. Ensure relevant information is close to hand. Important details include:

• - Current mileage
• - Number of owners
• - A record of any accidents
• - Dents or scratches
• - If it’s been kept outside or in a garage
• - If the price is negotiable
• - Extras information – CD, cruise control, power windows et cetera
• - Interior colour and condition
• - Remaining registration
• - Why you are selling the car

Paperwork – Once the funds have been deposited or the cheque cleared, fill out the ‘notice of disposal’ on the back of the registration form. If you don’t have a copy, you can obtain one from the RTA (or your state roads authority).

Handover – Once the paper work has been provided to the RTA or your state roads authority, the final stage is to hand over the keys together with a copy of the disposal form.

So, here’s a quick guide to everything you need to know about selling your car.

But, if it still seems all too complicated and time consuming (and let’s face it, selling something like a car often is) you might want to consider using a car broker. The right broker can do all of the hard work for you, including:

Give you a trade in – and a guaranteed price

• - Find sellers on your behalf
• - Market your car to their database of potential buyers
• - Cover all marketing and advertising costs
• - Deal with all follow-up calls
• - Securely store the car
• - Provide full insurance after trade-in
• - Help you sell for a higher than trade-in price, and split the profit with you

While it is perfectly possible to sell your car yourself, using a car broker and their expert knowledge of vehicles and the local marketplace can help get you the best deal, and take the hassle out of the process at the same time.
autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Are we placing less importance on a test drive nowadays? The build quality of most new cars is so good that price and practicality tend to dictate our decisions. And with buying on-line now a way of life why wouldn’t you just tick the boxes and click on those options you want. Hit send. Then wait for the call to tell you it’s ready for delivery. Before you do just remember this is the 2^nd biggest purchase most adults will ever make and you’re likely to have it (warts and all) for 2-3 years. Sometimes even longer. A decent drive before you sign should vindicate the decision. It might even be a deal breaker, which isn’t a bad thing. But it’s still worth doing. Here are some tips before you set off:

How to test drive by Greg Rust

1)    Don’t just do a quick lap of the block. Take the time to really get the feel for this car. Try to drive it in different conditions, in traffic, on a bumpy road and stretch its legs on a freeway too. On balance how was it? Smooth? Teeth chattering? Lazy?

2)    Try to limit conversation with the sales rep during the test. Turn the radio off (you can check the audio system later) and listen to the road noise and the general sound of the car. Are there any annoying rattles? It should be relatively quiet not drowned out by tyre noise.

3)    How comfortable are the seats? Try adjusting the driver’s seat and remember if you do long commutes every day you don’t want to feel cramped or compromised in your seating position from a safety point of view. Check the legroom and headroom.

4)    Are there any blind spots. A good driver will look over their shoulder as well as indicating before they merge or change lanes. When you glance over your shoulder is the view obstructed in any way? How badly?

5)    Without breaking the law or the company’s test drive policy make sure you turn into a few corners at speed. Not outside your comfort zone! By doing this you should be able to gauge steering response. Does it feel light or firm? Most importantly does it instill you with confidence? It should.

6)    If more than one person is going to drive the car on a regular basis take them with you. Let them drive it too and get their impressions. Sometimes a second opinion is a good thing particularly if you’re enamored with the car!

7)    Is the dash/instrumentation layout easy to read? You want to be able to check the vitals with a brief glance not a distracting search that takes your eyes off the road.

8)    Put your foot down! Again within the speed limit and your own ability. How responsive was it? Keep your expectations realistic. Don’t go expecting Ferrari performance if you’re in a Hyundai i20.

9)    How was the whole experience? For me this is the most important. I’m a practical person first and foremost but we’ve all got some ego in us. Could you see yourself driving this car every day? Would it make you happy? For the most part it should.

10) What does a professional driver look for? Craig Baird, the world’s most successful Porsche Cup racer, says safety is his first consideration. “I want to know that my wife and kids are going to be safe and that the features in the car will offer us the best protection. Then it’s about drivability. The low range torque found in many of the current European diesel engines makes them a pleasure to drive. I like my race car to have a precise front-end  In a road car I want the same feel. The steering feedback from the front wheels to the driver should be very direct not light and airy. And remember tyres can make a big difference too. Paying a little extra for good rubber is worth every penny. Do your homework on the vehicle first but I still think a good test drive is vitally important when you buy a new car.”

Buying a car is a major purchase, and it’s imperative to remember that costs are ongoing for the life of the vehicle. Car expenses include not just the initial car cost, but also the cost of regular servicing, insurance, petrol and automotive repair when it is needed. So, whether you’re looking to buy second-hand, a budget car or a top of the range model, it’s vital to think long-term. Here are some points worth considering before you jump in to car ownership.

How To Budget and Lower Car Expenses Image credit: quickquid.co.uk

1. Buy what you need

It’s tempting to get carried away with seemingly great deals on extras, or even to buy a bigger or more luxurious vehicle,

but a smart buyer will stick to what they need. Consider how many people will be driving the car, what the car needs to carry, how often the car will be used, and whether you will use it mostly in the city, or for travelling long distances.

2. Research running and maintenance costs

Investigate the fuel economy for any makes and models you are considering. Look for specific facts and figures to compare. Consider also the cost of maintaining the vehicle over the long term. Budget cars or discount new cars may actually cost you more in the long run. For instance, a discount new car that requires foreign parts that are not readily available is going to cost that much more in automotive repairs, than a more common car with readily available and cost-efficient parts.

3. Spend wisely

If you can put off buying a car until you’ve saved the full purchase price, do so. This of course isn’t always an option, so if you are looking for a car loan, shop around for the best deal, and do your sums – considering both interest rate and loan fees and charges.

4. Be insurance wise

Shop around for the most appropriate policy for your needs, at the best price. You might be able to get discounts for insuring more than one vehicle, and you might be able to get a lower premium if you use your car less. Always read the fine print.

5. Drive safely and conservatively

A smoother driving style (with less abrupt stopping and starting) will generally help your fuel efficiency. While it’s imperative to drive safely for the safety of everyone on the road, it can also help your wallet. Driving safely can help you save on petrol, and help you avoid traffic fines, which can be hefty.

6. Be petrol price aware

It’s no secret that fuel will be a better price on a certain day of the week, or that prices will vary widely from one city to another, and even from one suburb to the next. Online resources such as the NRMA website (for NSW drivers) can help you find the cheapest petrol in your area, and help you to keep your overall car costs in check.

7. Keep your vehicle in good condition

Regular servicing will help to avoid the need for a costly automotive repair. It will also help ensure fuel efficiency is maintained.

8. Be a thrifty driver

Use your vehicle only when you need it. Try to car pool, shop locally, walk or take public transport from time to time.

With some forethought and planning, it is possible to save significantly on car expenses by purchasing the right car for you, and being smart about ongoing costs.

About  Tim Marsh:

Tim Marsh, author of  New Cars Plus’s Car Reviews and Blog, has been covering the car beat for the last 7 years. Tim specialises in finding the best deals on wheels and offering advice on making your car last. Click here to read more about him!

New Cars Plus is Australia’s leading car broker based in Sydney, with its extensive experience in the automobile industry New Cars Plus has helped thousands of clients find their ideal cars, saving them millions of dollars in the process.

For any more information on the SUVs, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 020 311.  If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours.

Leave any comments below for the Author Tim Marsh if you have any!
autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile

Written by: Tim Marsh

Finding a convertible in Australia is relatively easy. When the desire is there to drive with the top down through the city, along the Gold Coast or into some of the vineyards, there’s no better way to do so than with some of the best convertibles currently on the market. Seven excellent convertibles come to mind when considering the current market. These include the BMW Z4, Audi A5, Audi TTS, Mercedes-Benz SLK, BMW 650i, BMW M3 and the Lexus IS250C.

BMW Z4

The BMW Z4 reviews quite well because it features a hardtop convertible as well as a variety of six cylinder engine options. There are ultimately three Z4 models to choose from including the sDrive20i, sDrive 28i and the sDrive 35is. The 35is is the one to get for speed and performance as it features 250 kW of power. The BMW Z4 review for safety is also considered high due to the number of airbags and other features including the front and passenger airbags, ABS and an engine immobilizer.

The BMW Z4 price starts at $85,709, which is for the 20i version. For those who can spend more on the Z4 model, the BMW Z4 price increases to as much as to a drive home price of $130,964 in New South Wales.

Audi A5

The Audi A5 convertible has also gotten the attention of many car buyers. There are six A5 models to choose from which will vary based upon the engine as well as the number of doors you’d want with your A5 model. The Audi A5 reviews have been solid due to the 7.0L/100 km fuel consumption, with some models even outperforming that. The Audi A5 review for safety has also earned it five ANCAP stars, much of it having to do with the Audi A5 convertible containing many safety features as well as the optional blind spot monitoring.

The Audi A5 price has much to do with the model desired; with the drive home starting price in New South Wales at $87,337 for a Cabriolet 2dr Multitronic 8 speed. For those who are looking for more speed, more performance and more power, there is also the top model, the Cabriolet 2 door S-tronic 7 speed Quattro with an Audi A5 price of $123,457.

Audi TTS

The Audi convertible makes the list because of the many standard features the Audi TT has. Drivers will benefit from leather trim, cruise control, Bluetooth and much more. The Roadster Audi convertible also has a lot of power in the engine with 118 kW for the starting model and then going all the way up to 184 kW in the V6 Quattro model. The Audi TTS hasn’t changed much since 2006, though some of the interior features have improved, which is why many people still consider this model for its reliable feel and consistent performance. The Audi TT is available in both manual or automatic models.

The TTS Audi take home price, in New South Wales, will vary based upon the trim level purchased. The TTS Audi S-Tronic 7 speed is $80,664, which the S Roadster 2 door Quattro is priced at $113,109.

Mercedes-Benz SLK

The SLK has done a lot to improve its performance including updating the bonnet to an alloy and the Mercedes SLK price has dropped as well making it a little more affordable for those looking for a quality luxury brand model. The BlueEFFICIENCY Roadster is available in four trim levels and is available in six or seven speed transmissions. The base model has the power of 135 kW and goes up from there. Many of the interior features are available for an upgrade, such as woodgrain or nappa leather. The SLK safety features are numerous, including airbags and ABS, which offers a good Mercedes SLK review for safety.

The Mercedes SLK review has been high due to the cost. The Mercedes SLK price starts at $92,484. For those wanting more power and more features, there is also the Roadster Speedshift 7 speed which is available for $168,307.

BMW 650i Convertible

The BMW 650i convertible makes the list as a soft top convertible that has 2+2 seating allowing more people to ride inside of it. The BMW 650i has strong performance, though can be a little stiff in the turns. For those looking for more power, the BMW 650i’s engine can achieve 330kW/450hp. A lot of interior features are included in the BMW 650i as well, including cameras, CD player and heated seats.

The BMW 650i convertible is priced at $265,272.

BMW M3 Convertible

The BMW M3 has the attention of drivers because of its 309 kW of power from its 4 litre V8 engine. The BMW M3 convertible is a high performance vehicle that has versatility. There is room for just two passengers in the M3 though there are many features inside for their benefit. Such features include leather seats, a premium sound system and Bluetooth. There are also additional features that can be added to the M3 BMW, which include a TV tuner and wind deflector.

The BMW M3 base model is priced at $187,100, any added-ons features that a driver would want would be in addition to this.

Lexus IS250

The Lexus convertible is part of the IS series and its six cylinders of power. There is 153 kW of power to help drivers get the speed they want and the hardtop roof of the IS250 is a great feature. The 2-door Lexus convertible has a lot of interior features, including power windows, doors and locks as well as Bluetooth, a premium sound system and heated seats. The Lexus IS250 review for safety has been high due to such features as ABS, engine immobilizer and driver and passenger side and knee airbags.

The Lexus IS250 review has also been strong because of the price of the Lexus IS250. The Prestige base model is a take-home price of $83,661 while the Sports luxury IS250 convertible sells for $102,561.

Summertime is a great time to be considering a convertible option for your next car purchase. Get in contact with us at New Cars Plus, and we’ll help you save money on the next car purchase of one of these beauties.

About  Tim Marsh:

Tim Marsh, author of  New Cars Plus’s Car Reviews and Blog, has been covering the car beat for the last 7 years. Tim specialises in finding the best deals on wheels and offering advice on making your car last. Click here to read more about him!

New Cars Plus is Australia’s leading car broker based in Sydney, with its extensive experience in the automobile industry New Cars Plus has helped thousands of clients find their ideal cars, saving them millions of dollars in the process.

For any more information on the SUVs, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 020 311.  If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours.

Leave any comments below for the Author Tim Marsh if you have any!
autovehicle
Tim Marsh’s Google Plus Profile