How to Maximize Your Test Drive (New Car Buying Guide)

Apr 9, 2025

When you’re shopping for a car, the process can seem overwhelming and intimidating, but we’d like to remedy that. Today, we’re going to help you learn the best ways to maximize your test drive experience, and help take some of the guesswork out of the car buying process. We’ll be covering the ins and outs of a test drive, and what you should pay attention to before you sign that lease or contract.

Is scheduling a test drive really that important?

The short answer: yes.

The long answer: In today’s day and age, it’s very easy to click-and-buy online for almost anything, including a car. While that might work out alright for a new pair of pants or a book, both of which are easily returnable, it’s probably not the best option for purchasing a vehicle. When you’re shopping for a car, it’s best to make sure you take that baby for a spin before you click that Buy Now button! Some things are just best left to an in-person experience, and buying a car is most assuredly one of them.

What is the point of a test drive, anyway?

A test drive is sort of like trying on shoes at the shoe store: you want to make sure that you choose something that’s functional, comfortable, affordable, and of course, stylish. Just like when your parents would make you take a jog up and down the aisle in your potential new shoes, you’ll want to take your potential car out for a spin, make sure it’s the right fit! We’ll help you learn what to look for when taking that test drive, so you can ensure it’s the perfect car, instead of buying on sight and hoping for the best.

Okay, well, what do I look for on my test drive?

First-hand experience behind the wheel and in the passenger seat of your intended new car will help you decide whether it meets your goals and needs. Is this vehicle large enough to carry all your cargo? Does it have enough room for your expanding family? Will there be space to fit a dog crate? Are there enough extra features to appease your tech-loving self? Can the audio system play your hype tracks with the proper acoustics? Whatever it is you’re seeking in a car, that hands-on experience and visual overview is going to help you narrow down your must-haves and can’t-live-withouts versus the not-that-important-after-alls.

How do I set up my test drive?

There are several ways you can schedule your test drive! First, you can use good ol’ reliable: the in-person request at your dealership. As you’re shopping the lot or the showroom, you can make a list of desirable vehicles, and request a test drive from your friendly neighborhood car salesperson. They’ll get you the keys and a temporary license plate, and get you out on the road in your potential new ride. Some dealerships will take you for a salesperson-led drive, and then swap places with you to head back to the dealership so you get an experience as both passenger and driver. In most cases you’ll be accompanied by a salesperson either way.

Second, you can schedule your test drive online with your local dealership. Look online through the models you’d like to test drive, and sift through the local inventory. Clicking on the make and model of the car will give you various selling points and features, as well as show you which options are in stock. There will generally be an option to submit a test drive request form, or you can open a chat window and ask a representative to schedule one for you. Once you’ve selected your date and time, you’ll meet your salesperson at the dealership and go for a test drive.

Third, and least common, some online-only car dealerships will offer you an online request form, and once approved they’ll give you a time/date and place for your test drive. Some companies will bring the car to you, others will have you rendezvous spot like a branded service center or rental facility.

How do I prepare for the test drive?

Make sure you have a short list of vehicles you’d like to test drive. Generally this is no more than 1 to 3 vehicles for each place you’re shopping. Next, set your desired dates for the test drive and schedule it via one of the aforementioned means. After you have your appointment date, make a checklist of researched qualities that you’d like to concentrate on; this can be accessibility, cargo space, exterior appearances, optional features, comfortability, modern connectivity, lighting, etc. Whatever you deem most important to you as a must-have feature in a vehicle, make sure it’s on the list so you can be sure to inspect it during the drive.

What should I look for on the test drive?

Once you’re behind the wheel, you’ll want to make sure you’re covering the essentials.

Does it have adequate visibility? You should be able to see clearly out of all windows without the use of electronics or mirrors, and no obstructions. Next, check each of the mirrors for blind spots, and check the cameras for extra visibility in the rear views and the surrounds.
Is the drive comfortable and quiet? Road noise and ambient cabin sounds are a focus for most, as excessive noise can be stressful and frustrating while driving. You’ll want to test the noise level without the radio or infotainment center on, and see how quiet it is as you drive at different speeds and on different surfaces, if possible. You’ll probably also want something with a smooth suspension and calm ride quality. Pay attention to how the ride feels on different surfaces and bumpy items like railroad tracks, speed bumps, and entries to parking lots.
How is the handling? You’ll want to get a good feel for the steering feel and responsiveness for the vehicle. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles around a tight corner or a curve in the road, and if it is easy to keep a straight line while driving without constantly redirecting. Of course, handling will be entirely a matter of preference, which you’ll only be able to decide once you take that test drive. Test the responsiveness of the brakes, and see if the user experience you have is equivalent to the projected online statistics; things like stopping distance and acceleration should be posted online for most vehicle manufacturers.

What happens after my test drive?

If you’re scheduling several visits, you’ll want to make sure you go to all test drive appointments, so you can adequately compare all of your potential new vehicles. We recommend making a list of pros and cons from each test drive, and measuring them against your initial “must-haves” and “can live without”’s. After fully evaluating the interior and exterior of each vehicle, and looking at your list, you’ll be able to narrow it down to the best car for your needs and preferences. Whether you’re buying new or pre-owned, this process should help you feel confident and secure in going ahead with the lease or purchase that’s right for you!