When the time comes for someone to get a new car, there are many things to think about. You need to consider everything and decide what is right for you given your circumstances. Below is a list of items that you may want to think through

Financing

Are you going to purchase or lease a car? Some people have very strong opinions about this topic. Most usually associate themselves as a buyer of cars or leaser of cars. Owning a car is very nice when it comes to the time you own it outright and don’t have a monthly payment. The downside of owning might be that you may keep the car longer than you would a leased car and have bigger maintenance costs or even have a vehicle that is not as reliable as a new car. With leasing a car you typically always have a new car that will change every couple of years. Your maintenance costs may be lower because the car is newer. But then again you have to face the fact that you don’t actually own the car, which some people have a problem with. Cars are an asset that depreciates as soon as you leave the lot.

Another thing to consider when it comes to money and financing is if you are going to put money down. How much you put down can affect your monthly payment.

Size

What size car do you need and want? This subject s a very practical one. If you have a large family, you may want to consider a minivan or SUV. If you are older and or single you may be able to get a sports car. Either way, once you figure out the size you prefer then you can narrow down your search and make sure it is suitable for you and your lifestyle.

Terrain

Speaking of lifestyle, the kind of lifestyle you have should affect your style of car that you have. Do you live in the city or the suburbs? Do you drive mostly in the mountains or mostly on highways? If you are an adventure-seeking individual than you probably shouldn’t be in a tiny sports car that can’t handle rough terrain, a 4 wheel drive SUV or truck may be more your style.

Gas Mileage

Depending on the size and style of the car, you will get different gas mileage. If you drive a lot you may want to pay attention to this number when searching for a car. If the mileage is low, then you may want to reconsider the vehicle because it just wouldn’t make financial sense. Not only is the gas mileage a financial factor, but it is also an environmental one.

Environmentally Friendly

A lot of people pay close attention to the effect their actions have on the environment. No one can contest that cars hurt the environment because of the gas they burn. Depending on how much this fact matters to you, you may choose to go with an environmentally friendly car. There are hybrid cars and electric cars. Hybrid cars use both gas and electric while electric is strictly electric. Both lessen the impact of your carbon footprint. Both types of cars are becoming more popular. Charging your car has become easier and easier. You can even contact your electricity providers to see what impact it will have on you, or you can also lookup local charging stations. Charging stations can typically be found in public buildings where you can literally just plug in your car and wait while it charges.

These are all things to consider when you are on the market for a new car. Some may be more important to you than others but they should still be reviewed.