Buying a new or used car in Thailand is a long-term financial decision, the key is to make the right decision based on your needs and lifestyle.
If you’re someone who is looking to buy a new or used car, here are 10 things to consider for selecting a car that suits your needs:
- Passenger Capacity and Interior Space
The most important thing to consider when buying a car is the passenger capacity and interior space. This varies depending on the type of car. If you’re looking for a compact and stylish car, a two-door coupe or convertible might be suitable for you. However, for traveling with friends or loved ones, a small sedan or hatchback that can accommodate four passengers would be sufficient.
If you need to accommodate more passengers in a larger interior space, a family car like a 7-seater SUV or MPV would be the most suitable option. Particularly, multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) and SUVs that are versatile in their use, with a third-row seating that can accommodate an additional two or three people, or fold down for extra storage space.
- Fuel Type
Traditional cars have internal combustion engines (ICE) that run on gasoline or diesel, but many countries are transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles at a fast pace.
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) rely on electric motors and batteries and require charging with an EV charger. On the other hand, Plug-in Hybrids are an excellent option as they offer both fuel efficiency and convenience. They feature an electric motor and EV battery combined with a gasoline engine. Full hybrid vehicles operate on electric mode with the battery while driving and use the gasoline engine and fuel during high-speed operation. The car battery is recharged during the regenerative braking process and doesn’t necessarily require plugging into an EV charger.
- Engine Control and Power
The chosen car should provide good responsiveness, stability, and comfort when accelerating on highways or city roads. However, if you frequently drive on highways or travel to different provinces, you may want to consider an SUV with better off-road capabilities, higher ground clearance, and excellent traction on rough surfaces. This ensures better performance with rear-wheel drive and low center of gravity for better control, acceleration, and suitable top speeds.
- Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, or All-Wheel Drive
Front-wheel drive is the standard for most modern cars as it generally provides better safety, especially at limited speeds, and offers more interior space. Rear-wheel drive is commonly found in sports cars and luxury sedans of the past. It provides better drivability and a modern traction control system for maximum grip. Meanwhile, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) are excellent options for off-road adventures.
- Automatic Transmission or Manual Transmission
Most new cars come with automatic transmissions, which means the driver doesn’t need to manually change gears using a clutch. However, manual transmissions can add a nostalgic charm and enhance the driving experience for drivers who enjoy shifting gears themselves.
- Cargo Capacity
In general, sports cars have the least cargo capacity, while hatchbacks and sedans offer a moderate amount of storage space. MPVs and SUVs provide more versatility with spacious cargo areas and the option to install roof racks or bicycle racks for carrying various items such as mountain bikes or surfboards. It’s essential to consider the shape and size of the car’s rear to ensure it can accommodate larger items like folding bicycles or strollers.
- Safety Features
Safety is always one of the most important considerations when deciding to buy a car. Therefore, it is advisable to look for cars with excellent safety features and systems, such as Lane Tracing Assist, which helps you stay in your lane and avoid drifting into other lanes, or Blind Spot Monitoring system, which alerts you to potential blind spots.
- Additional Expenses
After you have chosen a car, you should consider after-sales services, such as warranties and service packages. Some dealerships offer extended warranties that cover the car for its entire lifespan, which is an important consideration as car maintenance can be costly.
Another expense to consider is car insurance. Insurance premiums vary based on the car’s profile and the driver. For example, sports cars usually have higher insurance rates, while younger and older drivers may face slightly higher premiums.
- Resale Value
When buying a car, it’s worth considering factors such as the future resale value. Certain brands, types, and models tend to retain their value better than others in the market. Conducting research before making a purchase can give you more flexibility when selling or trading in your car in the future.
- Additional Considerations for Used Cars
When evaluating the overall condition of a used car, check the mileage and look for any visible internal or external damages. Inspect crucial components such as tires or the engine compartment for any signs of wear. Take a test drive and observe for any unusual sounds or engine vibrations, and ensure that the wheels are properly aligned.
To enhance confidence and peace of mind, you may consider purchasing a certified pre-owned car from a reputable automotive dealer.
