Your budget should include: On-road price (ex-showroom + GST + insurance + registration + accessories). This is typically 10–15% higher than the ex-showroom price shown in advertisements.
Also factor in EMI affordability — most financial advisors suggest keeping your car EMI under 15% of your monthly take-home salary.
Under 1000 km/month: Petrol or CNG. 1500–2500 km/month: Diesel or CNG. City-only driving: Consider EV if you have home charging. This single decision affects your long-term running costs more than any other.
Narrow down to 2–3 cars and test drive all of them. Pay attention to: visibility from the driver's seat, ease of entry/exit, boot space with seats up, ride quality on rough roads near the dealership.
Get quotes from at least 2 different dealerships of the same brand. Ask specifically about: discounts on ex-showroom price, free accessories, extended warranty at no cost, free first service.
Avoid: paying for accessories you don't need, overpriced dealer insurance (get your own from a third-party insurer), and extended warranties at launch events where pressure is high.
Before signing and paying: Inspect the car in daylight for scratches, dents or panel misalignment. Check all electronics — windows, AC, infotainment, cameras. Confirm the variant matches what you paid for. Test drive the actual delivery car, not a demo unit.
Use our free car finder quiz to shortlist the right car for your budget and lifestyle before visiting any dealership.
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