YOU MIGHT BE upgrading from a 2017 or 2018 model or buying a new car for the first time ever. Either way, if you’re considering a new set of wheels for 191, the range of options out there is no doubt a little overwhelming.
For starters, there’s the fuel type to pick. The transmission. The car size, the number of doors, the model, the in-car features… it’s a lot to consider.
To help you figure out what features you need, and what pitfalls you should avoid, we asked Dave Humphreys, Road Test Editor with CompleteCar.ie, for his expert advice.
Here’s what he reckons car buyers should be keeping in mind for 191…
Back in 2008, car-buyers began choosing diesel engines “overnight” after Ireland’s motor tax system changed in favour of low-emission engines. “At the time, diesel engines scored better than petrol ones. But now that petrol emissions have dropped too, there has definitely been a swing back,” says Dave.
But the choice between petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid should really depend on your lifestyle, and not motor tax costs:
Look at the type of driving you’re doing and let that dictate it. For urban driving, petrol is more fuel efficient than diesel, for example.
With UK buyers turning away from diesel too, there are ‘diesel dump’ savings to be made for Irish buyers choosing imports – and Brexit could drive costs down even further. But be careful not to get blindsided by a low price tag, warns Dave – it might not be worth the hassle.
People see the initial purchase and think they’re saving money, but if they don’t work out all the other costs they could get badly stung. You have to consider the cost of getting the car home, registering it in Ireland, and covering repairs yourself if you buy privately. It all adds up.
Real-time traffic info, hands-free calling, smartphone charge points… If you’re not a techie by nature, you might have in-car connectivity at the bottom of your list. But high-tech features are a smart way to future-proof your car, says Dave.
Car tech doesn’t move as quickly as smartphones or tablets do, so it’s worth paying a bit extra to ensure your car’s features aren’t out of date in a year or two. Do some research and consider paying for a higher-spec trim to get the extra tech.
Features like reversing cameras and emergency brake assist have obvious advantages for keeping you safe, but they’re not the only extras you should be considering.
Hands free parking might sound a little gimmicky but it can be a huge help if you’re not a confident driver. You can literally drive up to an empty parallel parking space, let the car know you want to park there, and the hands free system will take over the steering.
Earlier this year, Minister for Transport Shane Ross promised a new government crackdown on speeding, with higher penalty points for motorists who break the limit. So what can you do to ensure you stay within legal guidelines? Well, aside from always keeping your eye on the road and not making risky decisions, there’s one feature that could help, says Dave:
Cruise control. It’s a simple feature that’s a great way of avoiding speeding on the motorway. If you’re driving a long distance with a set speed limit, just turn cruise control on and you’ll be all set.
“Ten years ago I’d never have wanted an automatic car,” says Dave. “At that time they cost far more than manual transmission cars and guzzled way more fuel.”
Now though, fuel consumption for automatic cars has dropped across the board. “The costs are lower too,” Dave adds. “If you’re commuting, it’s a great option.”
Whatever motor you go for, make sure it’s chosen with your needs in mind. “The car should suit you, not the other way around,” says Dave.
Thinking of buying new for 191? Order your all-new 191 Renault today and drive away with an unmissable deal. Like the Renault KADJAR, for a start, from €229 per month with €1000 cashback, three years’ servicing and 1.91 per cent APR. Find more great Renault offers here.
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