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(NAPSI)-Significant, long-term investments, such as purchasing an automobile, are no time for succumbing to our whims. When car shopping, take time to research your options. It won't lengthen or complicate the car-buying process; in fact, doing your homework can help you save time and find a car that better satisfies your needs.
Many of today's vehicle options may not have been around the last time you stepped into a car dealership. For example, have you ever heard of a crossover vehicle (CUV)? It's a new automobile class that combines the advantages of a car and a truck-CUVs get good gas mileage and have the passenger and cargo space of an SUV. Internet sites such as AutoTrader.com have trend centers with the latest industry news, including key information on crossovers, alternative fuels and long-term value retention.
You're probably thinking about either a new or used vehicle, but did you know there is another option? Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are used cars that go through a rigorous inspection, and often come with an approval seal and warranty from the original manufacturer or dealer. Again, there are many Web sites that post guides to simplify the process and can assist you in selecting a new, used or certified pre-owned vehicle.
Now, your research is done and you're ready to find a dealership that has the exact car for you. The Internet continues to help; at AutoTrader.com, you can search for the dealership closest to you and use a dynamic mapping system to print out a map when you're ready to go. Additionally, you can search for dealers by services important to you, such as financing options, whether the dealership has a service center, and loaner car availability.
Finally, make sure to take all your homework with you so you can refer to it while you shop. Print detailed vehicle brochures and valuations of your trade-in that include a third party's estimate of your vehicle's worth. You'll have more confidence in the list price and in what you'll accept for your current car knowing this information. To learn about these and other car-shopping resources and to become an educated car shopper, visit www.AutoTrader.com.