Many people consider a vehicle part of their identity, like the clothes they wear or the neighborhood where they live. And there’s nothing wrong with that. But when making a vehicle purchase, it can help to ask some practical questions—and nothing is more practical than how you will use the car, truck or SUV.
Ask yourself honestly, “what will I actually do in this vehicle?” The answers may seem obvious, but there’s often more to consider than you may think.
For example, perhaps you commute to work each day, making fuel economy and the ability to fit into smaller parking spaces a requirement. But will you also take the car on longer trips? If so, perhaps four doors is an important consideration. That might also influence whether an electric vehicle is an option.
Another example might be someone who lives on several acres and requires a truck to do regular hauling. Will they also carry multiple passengers? That could determine whether they need a two-door pickup, or a more expensive four-door model.
What about a couple who is planning to have children? Or one that is planning to downsize now that the nest is empty? Your life situation, now and in the future, will impact your vehicle needs. How you will actually use that vehicle is arguably the most important factor to consider when buying a car.
