Fuel Prices and Car Choice: The Connection
Gone were the days when choosing a car heavily leans on looks. It is not surprising that looks play a big part in car choice because it usually forms part of personal image. With the continuing increase in fuel prices, consumers are now forced to think more carefully and consider fuel efficiency as a main aspect in  car purchase decision making.

Main Factors in Choosing a Car

There are three (3) main factors in choosing a car to purchase. First is Quality which pertains to workmanship and expected durability. Car purchase is a major financial decision so it is always to the best interest of the buyer that a car performs and withstands ordinary wear and tear due to use. Some buyers connect quality with brands but unfortunately, this is not always the case. Checking reviews and asking for recommendations based on minimum personal style preference is a good idea.

Cost of ownership is another major consideration. It would be very difficult to own a car however eye-catching, if it ends up straining the finances of the car owner. One easy way to calculate for auto loan payments is the use of an online Car Payment Calculator. It removes the guessing game whether a borrower can manage monthly loan payments or not.

Such a tool can provide the amounts for down payment, taxes, and interest rate, based on the car price. These amounts will be affected by the credit score of the borrower. It makes sense therefore, that buyers take care of their credit standing to avail of the best deals.
Fuel efficiency is still another important consideration. The rapid increase in fuel prices is something that can no longer be set aside. Studies show that many drivers are adjusting their driving behavior as a direct response to gasoline price changes.

Car Choice Based on Fuel Efficiency

Smaller and lighter cars are typically more fuel efficient than their heavier counterparts. New technologies such as multi-speed transmissions also facilitates fuel efficiency. The kind of fuel will also determine overall fuel expenses.

What many drivers fail to understand is that the driving style affects fuel efficiency. Rapid starts and stops as well as careless weaving in and out of traffic are the perfect formula for fuel wastage. This is not to mention exposure to greater risks to accidents.

My Say

At the end of the day, car owners ultimately decide on what  basis to use for car purchase. It is best to say however that more and more buyers are wising up in choosing fuel efficient cars. With no assurance that fuel prices has reached its peak, monthly gas expense should be accounted for in the same way as monthly payment for car loans.