CarCostCanada

Buying a Car? Breeze Through That Test Drive the RIGHT Way!

You’re in the market for a new car!

There’s nothing quite as exciting as checking out all the makes and models, narrowing down your list and test driving those final few. As fun as this is, there are certain hitches throughout the process that can trip you up, especially when it comes to that tricky test drive. 

In this article, we navigate you through this elusive art, and also explain why it’s so so SO important to familiarize yourself with the car’s dealer invoice price in Canada before putting down your money.  

A dealer invoice report breaks down the MSRP (how much the dealer paid to own the vehicle), factory incentives, financing options, and more! So for example, if you’re curious about the BMW series 8 dealer price in Canada, a dealer invoice report is your secret weapon to making the negotiations process simpler. 

Without further ado, let’s delve into the different techniques to adopt when test driving your dream car. 

Research, Research, Research

We urge you to read reviews from people who’ve test-driven the same model before, get a dealer invoice report and effectively narrow down your top picks. The last thing you want to do is test drive more cars than you need to. 

Create a checklist that meets your main criteria. When you do your homework, it’s much easier to identify the things you want and don’t want in the car and by default, it becomes easier to identify the things you like or dislike during the drive!

Bring a Buddy

Granted, you may not be a car savant, and that’s okay. Bring along a family member or friend. Even if they’re not as savvy themselves, that extra pair of eyes elevates the chances of noticing something that you may not. 

Plus, they can provide valuable feedback as to what it’s like to ride as a passenger in the vehicle. Inexperienced buyers greatly benefit from bringing someone along as there are many potential concerns that crop up during your negotiations with the dealer that call for added support. 

Inspect the Vehicle

Yes, looks matter! Conducting a visual inspection is as important as getting behind the wheel and giving the car a whirl. What to look for?

  • Make sure the size is optimal, and that the car will easily fit into your garage; break out the measuring tape if you must!
  • Inspect the cargo space and glove compartment; too much or too little will be a problem later on.
  • How about that legroom? The interior space should be sufficient for the driver and front and back seat passengers. 
  • Adjust the seats to see if this can be done quickly and comfortably. 
  • Try out the Bluetooth, GPS and radio to make sure there are no glitches. 
  • Experiment with the buttons and knobs to ensure that everything is accessible and intuitive to use.

Get a Dealer Invoice Report

Now you may be wondering; how is a dealer invoice report vital to my test drive? As it turns out, this handy report is vital to not just your test drive but the entire buying process. Allow us to explain. 

When you select a make and model and request your free report, you will immediately gain access to the following information;

  • MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – what the dealer paid to own the car)
  • Factory incentives
  • Lease and finance rates
  • Recommended dealerships
  • Vehicle pricing options
  • Comparable vehicles

With this information, you can access certified recommended dealerships and the negotiation process then becomes a breeze. 

A majority of dealerships make a profit of 8.7% on selling a new vehicle. When you know the MSRP, follow the 3-5% rule – add 3-5% on the invoice figure in your report to calculate the most lucrative negotiation price!

Test driving is nothing by itself if you don’t get a good price without breaking your budget, right? Right! That’s why we encourage you to get a free report today – no matter the make and model you have in mind, we got you covered. 

We’re here to help. Request your free dealer report right now.

CarCostCanada

Buying a New Car as a College Student? Here’s How to Stay Within Budget!

College is an exciting and challenging time. Between 7 am classes, tons of homework and, whew, student loans, you have a lot of your plate. But now you’ve decided to invest in a new car so you can travel faster and more conveniently. That’s great news! Naturally, you want something that stays well within budget.

Buying a new car is a phenomenal experience. Well, actually, owning a new car is a phenomenal experience. Buying one? Not as much. 

We understand that you’re super new to this and need a little help. If you’re curious about, say, the price of a Honda, Car Cost Canada has got your back! This article helps you simplify the negotiation and reveals how you can find out the invoice price on your new car in Canada in a matter of minutes!

Like most new car buyers, you might be wondering; just what is the invoice price of a car? The invoice price or dealer cost is the sum of money paid by the dealership to gain ownership of the car. It includes the cost of the base model and all add-ons. The figure is typically much lower than the advertised figures, the latter of which is referred to as the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price).

When you shop smart and get a car dealer invoice report, you can skip the MSRP and pay a much lower fee.

Check the Age of the Car

When shopping around for a new ride, go for a model that’s less than 8 years old.  You’ll need a car that has easily available parts that do not call for frequent replacements. 

When you approach the dealers, make sure you have someone with you who is experienced in purchasing cars. Certain salespersons might deceive new buyers about the state of the motor vehicles. 

By taking an experienced person with you, you’re enhancing your bargaining power and the likelihood of getting the best value for your money. 

Set the Ground Rules

Do your research on the car you have in mind before you set foot into the dealership. Instead of dropping by the dealers and letting the salesperson sway your opinion, tell them you already have a vehicle selected. Convey the trim level and add-ons that you wish to invest in, keeping in mind the price for that configuration. 

When the salesperson senses you’re a novice who doesn’t have a specific model and trim level in mind, they’ll pull out all the stops to get you to invest in expensive and unnecessary add-ons. 

Reassure them that both parties are emerging from a mutually beneficial deal, and ask if they’re willing to match your target price. If not, don’t be afraid to tell them that you’d prefer to go to another dealership. When they see you’re willing to let the deal fall through, they are all the more likely to be open to reason. 

Purchase At the End of the Month

Business slows down at the end of the month and most salespersons are looking to make one final sale. It stands to reason that they’re more amenable and willing to be open to your negotiation tactics. If you want to go one better, try buying your car at the end of a quarter – March, June, September or December. This will help you save even further. 

We suggest shopping for the car early in the month and actually buying it much later, meaning get the test drive done early and narrow the list when the month is closing up shop. 

Access Great Rebates With a Free Car Dealer Invoice Report

A dealer invoice report is honestly every college student’s best friend when car shopping. This report is meant to provide a breakdown of all fees, including the hidden car fees that most people aren’t aware of. That way, you will know exactly how much you’re paying for that trim level and how to negotiate smartly. 

Your report will reveal;

  • MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – what the dealer paid to own the car)
  • Factory incentives and rebates
  • Lease and finance rates
  • Recommended dealerships
  • Vehicle pricing options
  • Comparable vehicles

A majority of dealers turn a profit of 8.7% on selling a new car. When you’re aware of the true MSRP, you can follow the 3-5% rule – meaning you can add about 3-5% on the invoice figure in your report to calculate the most lucrative negotiation price. 

 

At Car Cost Canada, you can have your cake and eat it too. Get a great car at your dream price. 

Your report is ready and waiting! Get it here. 

CarCostCanada

Ditching Fuel For an Electric Car? 5 Reasons Why That May Be Your Best Idea Yet!

Is it finally time for you to own an electric vehicle? 

In the electric automobile industry, there are so many cars debuting each year. Many of these come with affordable price tags and extended operating ranges, making your buying decision both easier and harder simultaneously. 

So if you’re thinking about an electric car, do read on. Also, we have a great surprise at the end. If you’re wondering, say, what the cost of a BMW electric car in Canada is, we can do you one better! Not only will we show you how to know the full MSRP, but also how you can get amazing rebates and incentives. Read on!

What is an electric car and how does it work? All-electric cars have an electric motor in place of an internal combustion engine. The car relies on a large traction battery pack for power and it must be plugged into a charging station or wall outlet to recharge. 

Granted, these still occupy a razor-thin percentage of the overall automobile industry, but they’re picking up traction very quickly! And with the dearth of renewable fuel sources, there might come a time when all owners switch to EVs!

The debate between electric cars vs gas cars has been on for quite some time. In this article, we explore the pros of shopping for an EV in 2019. 

  1. So Many Amazing Options

You’d be surprised to learn that, in 2019 alone (so far!), 17 new EVs and crossovers have been launched. For the budget-minded shopper, these start as low as $23,900. A large portion of them are within the $30,000 range which, let’s face it, is the average cost of a new car these days. 

Which new models have debuted this year? Say hello to the Audi e-tron, Jaguar i-Pace, Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro Electric and the Nissan Leaf Plus. When talking electric, Tesla is never far behind. This year, the auto giant released the Model 3, priced at $35,000 for the entry-level trim.

  1. EV Resale Values Are Quite Impressive

Conventionally, people have found that EVs have abysmal resale values. That’s about to change. Models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Tesla Model 3 and Jaguar I-Pace can all run for over 200 miles at a time and are anticipated to hold a much sturdier 3-year resale value. In fact, the Tesla Model 3 is expected to retain about 64% of its value after 36 months. 

  1. Electricity is More Affordable Than Gasoline

This one’s a given. Gas prices are soaring and more and more people are finding that it’s cheaper to own and run an EV. For instance, the Hyundai Ioniq Electric is expected to cost the owner about $500 a year to run for 15,000 miles! This means that those who opt for this car will pay approx $4,200 less in fuel costs over a 5-year period as opposed to someone who owns a gasoline run vehicle.

  1. No Tailpipe Emissions

EV batteries do not spew smog-forming pollutants like an internal combustion engine does. Imagine the good you’d be doing for the environment! Now the overall impact on the environment does depend on how the electricity is locally sourced. But overall, these produce way less pollution than traditional cars. 

  1. Maintenance Costs Take a Nosedive

No more oil changes or tune-ups That sounds good, doesn’t it? In fact, because there are just a handful of moving parts, the less chance of things failing or needing replacement in an EV. Electric cars use a one-speed transmission and avoid components like valves, spark plugs, clutches, catalytic converters, etc. Thus, you will only need to get the brake pads serviced every once in a while. 

Want the Best Deal on Your New Electric Vehicle?

Car Cost Canada can help! With a dealer invoice report from Car Cost Canada, you can get a breakdown of factory incentives, lease rates and more! That way, you can easily skip the extra charges and find out the MSRP of any car (how much the dealer actually paid to own it). 

Negotiating for a great deal is so much simpler. 

Get your FREE report right here!

CarCostCanada

Use These 5 Proven Tricks on Your Car Dealer to Get the Price You Want!

You’re on the lookout for your next car? That’s exciting news! What isn’t as exciting is the prospect of haggling with a dealer to talk them down from the exorbitant quote they’ve just given you. Fear not. 

In this article, we reveal 5 successful strategies you can use to beat the dealer at their own game. We talk about how the price of your new car in Canada doesn’t have to be at the whim of the dealer. 

For instance, if you’re in the market for a Subaru Forester, a new price report will help you avoid paying the full MSRP and give you amazing incentives! 

Without further ado, let’s explore the 5 tactics that will get you a new ride without breaking the bank. 

  1. Stick to Your Target Figure

Make it clear to the dealer that you will only sign the paperwork when they agree to match the price you have in mind. Of course, they’ll try to counter your offer. Stay firm and politely decline. Leave them with your phone number, and if the price you’ve quoted is reasonable, chances are they’ll call you back within the next couple of days. 

  1. Know When to Follow Up

Auto gurus have suggested it’s best to follow up on Saturday or Sunday an hour before the dealership closes. 

Always call and ask to speak to the same point-of-contact person you negotiated with before. Reiterate that you aren’t willing to go above your quote, and if they’re having a not-so-lucrative weekend, they just might acquiesce!

Salespeople are under more pressure to make one more sale before the month closes, hence it’s always a good idea to follow up at the end of the month. A deal that they refused on the 26th of the month might suddenly make sense to them on the 30th. 

  1. What NOT to Say

“I really love this car”

“I don’t know much about cars”

“I’ve made up my mind to purchase a car today”

While all of the above may be true, there’s no need to volunteer this information to the dealer. The dealer psychologically profiles every person that walks in. Knowing that you’re already emotionally invested in a car, they might just play to that and use any and all tactics to complete the sale. Make sure you hold the cards and don’t relinquish that edge to the salesperson. 

  1. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away

Walking away does not equate to defeat. Sometimes, leaving the dealer with a quote to mull over is a great thing. If you eagerly accept the first quote they give you, chances are you’ll get taken for a ride. From there, it’s only a matter of time before the dealer heaps additional fees onto you (VIN etching, rust protection) that you don’t really need. Again, if the dealer is not meeting you halfway, hit the road. 

  1. Get a Free Dealer Invoice Report

None of the above really stands for much if you don’t have a dealer invoice report to turn to. 

Your report will reveal;

  • MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – what the dealer paid to own the car)
  • Factory incentives
  • Lease and finance rates
  • Recommended dealerships
  • Vehicle pricing options
  • Comparable vehicles

A majority of dealers turn a profit of 8.7% on selling a new car. When you’re aware of the true MSRP, you can follow the 3-5% rule – meaning you can add about 3-5% on the invoice figure in your report to calculate the most lucrative negotiation price. 

It’s simple! Choose your make and model and see a complete breakdown of all fees. 

 

Get a FREE dealer invoice report within minutes. 

 

CarCostCanada

Unmasking 7 Hidden Costs of Owning a Car

Sure, it’s really exciting to mosey on to your local dealership and pick out a new ride. But it’s also important to pay attention to your wallet. Apart from the upfront fees, there are plenty of “hidden” charges that rake up over time. 

To ensure you’re not going to be breaking your budget down the road, check out these little-known fees that are often missed by new car buyers. 

Read till the end to find out how knowing the dealer invoice price can help you save BIG. Want to know the dealer cost for a Toyota Tundra for instance? A dealer invoice report is exactly what you need. 

  1. FUEL

This one is a no-brainer but you’d be surprised how many people overlook it. If you plan to buy an all-electric vehicle, then you can skip this point. Large vehicles like pickup trucks, minivans and SUVs tend to be costlier as far as the fuel economy is concerned. Small cars like sedans and hatchbacks are your best bet. Fuel is the second biggest ownership expense after depreciation and accounts for over 24% of overall charges. 

  1. MAINTENANCE

The manufacturer’s warranty will most likely cover all maintenance requirements for the first couple of years of ownership. However, you will eventually have to take on that burden. Maintenance accounts for about 4% of ownership expenses over a 5-year period. Make sure you check how expensive your vehicle will be to maintain before putting down your money. 

  1. TIRES

It costs anywhere between $60 to $125 to change one tire. It is recommended that you change your tires at least once every 3 to 6 years. Of course, always check them sooner to ensure they’re not worn out. Just like fuel, tire costs vary dramatically from one model to another. 

  1. INSURANCE

You can’t forget to tally the insurance expenses as it is illegal to drive without insurance in Canada. Ontario and Alberta have the highest rates in the nation. The average resident pays about 1,476 per year on insurance. 

  1. FINANCING/LOANS

Your monthly loan payments will probably be one of your biggest. You can extend the loan to lower your monthly payments, however, this, in turn, will increase long-term expenses as you will have to defray interest charges on each monthly payment. Interest accounts for over 11% of ownership expenses over a 5-year period. 

  1. LICENSING

As a car owner, you will have to renew your license on an annual basis which costs about $100 in Canada. Registration is a bi-annual charge that costs around the same. 

  1. DEPRECIATION

Depreciation has a huge impact on the total cost of ownership. In fact, it is estimated that your car can depreciate by as much as 20% as soon as you drive it off the lot! The longer you wait between purchasing your vehicle and selling it, the more you stand to lose. Over a period of 5 years, vehicles depreciate by about 65%. This is why depreciation accounts for about 48% of total ownership expenses. 

Find Out the True Cost of Your Next Car

How? Simple! With a dealer invoice report from Car Cost Canada, you can get a breakdown of factory incentives, lease rates and more! That way, you can easily skip the extra charges and find out how much the dealer actually paid to own the car. Negotiating for a great deal is so much simpler. 

 

Get your FREE report right here

Psst: We send it to your email in minutes!

CarCostCanada

Ready to Buy Your New Car: Here’s What You Need to Bring to the Dealer!

The research process when it comes to looking for a new vehicle to purchase can be quite lengthy so when the day comes when you are finally ready to make the big purchase, it can be very exciting! Days, weeks, or even months have led you to this point and there is nothing you want more than to get the keys to your new ride and drive off. Of course, this can only be done so if you have all your paperwork and necessary requirements readily available. It’s important to understand what fees are associated with buying a car and what you need to bring with you to the dealer to ensure you can drive away the same day.

Preparing what you need ahead of time can help ensure you don’t miss anything come the day of purchase. There are a few very essential items/documents you need to bring with you in order to complete your vehicle purchase.

 

Driver’s license: This may seem like a given, but you would be surprised how many people forget it. When purchasing a new vehicle, many people find alternative ways to get to the dealership; Uber, public transportation, ride-sharing, etc. Because of this, some forget to bring their license with them. Your driver’s license is important for confirming and verifying your identity when purchasing your vehicle. If you plan on driving your car off the lot, the dealership will not allow you to do so without a proper license on you. If you forget it and plan on driving your new ride home, you will either have to arrange for another day, arrange for vehicle delivery, or get someone to come pick it up for you.

Proof of Insurance: Just like a driver’s license, you cannot legally operate a vehicle without insurance in Canada. Dealers need to see proof that you have taken out a policy on the new vehicle before allowing you to drive it off of the lot. If you have recently purchased a policy and don’t have the slip yet, providing a printed copy will suffice. Without proof of insurance, you will not be allowed to drive your new car off the lot.

Employment/Credit Information: Typically, dealers will run a credit report for you, however, it’s good to have a report handy with you as well as your credit card. Some dealers may require employment information if they need to verify you can, in fact, pay for the vehicle. If any issues arise with your credit information or you don’t have the required back up information, this may delay the entire car buying process.

Form of payment: Whether you are purchasing your vehicle outright, leasing, or financing, you need to bring some form of payment. If you are purchasing outright, you need to present either a cheque, bank card or credit card that will cover the entire cost. When it comes to financing/leasing, payment is required for your down payment. If you are not putting a down payment down, it is still vital to bring your payment method. This is so the dealer can register the monthly payments to either your bank or credit card. Without this, they will not be able to bill you for your payments monthly, ergo, they will not let you drive off the lot until they are 100% they have a method of taking payments from you.

Dealer Invoice Report: Our Dealer Invoice Report can save you thousands on your new vehicle purchase and many dealers gladly accept the report. Ensure you have it printed out or have a digital copy readily available to show to the dealer. The report can help you knock off some serious dollars on your whole purchase or finance/lease payments. If you do forget it, you could be foregoing a plethora of savings.

 

What fees are associated with buying a new car?

There are a few required fees you must pay before completing your vehicle purchase. It’s imperative that you are aware of these fees so you are not hit with any surprises at the dealership.

 

New plate costs: A front and back plate are legally required when operating a vehicle. These need to be paid for prior to purchasing your vehicle so the dealership can ensure your vehicle is legally fit for the road. If you have a previous vehicle and you want to take the plates off and transfer to your new vehicle, you can do so and the dealer will waive this fee. If you want entirely new plates, however, you will have to purchase them at an extra cost of $60-120 depending on your place of residence (prices will differ for personalized plates and commercial vehicles).

Delivery fees: If you plan on having your vehicle delivered to you, it may cost you a little extra. Depending on the distance from the dealership to your home, the dealership may charge you a delivery fee. You can, however, find dealers who waive this fee for you.

Loan payment fees: When financing or leasing a vehicle, you are given an exact amount that will be billed to your credit card/bank weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. It’s important to keep an eye out on these payments and ensure they match up to what original cost was given to you. If you see the payments that are coming out are slightly higher than initially agreed upon, it may be due to loan payment fees. Some automakers will add this fee on to car buyers monthly payments, usually around $10-$20 extra per month. It’s important to fully read your payment terms and conditions so you are not hit with any unwanted surprises when your payments come out. Not all automakers/dealers will charge a loan payment fee, so it’s essential to research which ones will waive it.

 

Making sure you have all the necessary documents and paperwork ready with you on the day of your purchase can help the process run smoothly and will allow you to drive off with your vehicle the same day. Doing so will also prepare you so you don’t run into any unwanted surprises.

Ready to purchase your new vehicle? Let us help you with the process! Contact us today for your FREE Dealer Invoice Report and drive away in style with some cash in your wallet to spare!

CarCostCanada

First Time Car Buyer? Here Are Some Rides We Think You’ll Like!

Obtaining your license and buying your first car is a rewarding and memorable experience. It’s a trademark in one’s entrance into adulthood. Purchasing a vehicle is a massive, long-term investment, ergo, it’s important to do your research ahead of time when it comes to which vehicle best suits your needs as a new driver. Whilst most would love to drive a new Lambo off the lot right after getting our licenses, it’s always best to start with something that is cost-efficient and quite frankly, not as fast!

In the market for your first vehicle? Here’s a comparison of the top cars Canada has to offer for new drivers!

 

First off, what do new drivers need to be on the lookout for when purchasing a new vehicle?

Buying your first car as a new driver is a lot different than buying a car years down the road. There are a few more factors you need to consider as a novice driver, including;

  • Insurance rates – if you are under 25 years of age, insurance rates are higher. With no record as well, insurance companies tend to raise prices as a precautionary method.
  • Cost of fuel/charge – if you are working within a budget, it’s important to consider the monthly cost of keeping your vehicle running. Some vehicles require higher levels of octane which can quickly add up to a heftier monthly gas bill.
  • Finance/lease cost – if you are choosing to finance/lease, it’s important to have your credit in good standing, especially if you are within a specific monthly budget. Poor credit or even no credit can be grounds for higher monthly payments due to interest.
  • Cost of maintenance – chances are, as a new driver, you are going to ding up your car quite a few times. Ergo, opting for a vehicle that is cheaper to maintain and with more cost-efficient parts should be highly considered.
  • New or used – used vehicles typically have a lower upfront cost, however, they may require more maintenance down the road. It’s important to navigate the pros and cons when it comes to new/used vehicles.

Here are a few great options to consider when shopping for your first vehicle:

 

2019 Toyota Corolla

With the standard base model starting just under $20,000, the 2019 Toyota Corolla makes a great starter vehicle for new drivers. The 2019 models come equipt with a plethora of safety features including; lane departure warning, steering assist, automatic high beam lights, back-up camera, and collision detection. The array of safety features can put new drivers at easy when it comes to hitting the road solo for the first time. Although the 2019 Corolla isn’t built for speed, with a 1.8-L 4-cylinder engine, this could be good news for new drivers in order to help them avoid stepping on the gas and potentially landing themselves in a ticket hotspot.

The 2019 Toyota Corolla is a good option: for new drivers fixated on the safety of the vehicle over everything else

Opt for another vehicle if: you are looking for something with a little more pizzazz when it comes to the engine and driving performance

 

2019 Honda Civic

Perhaps the sporty version of the Toyota Corolla, the 2019 Honda Civic has a surfeit of features that will surely attract the attention of new drivers. The 2019 Civic comes in a variety of engine options which is great for those who either want something calmer or for those looking for a sporty feel when driving. What has made the Honda Civic one of the most popular vehicles on the road time and time again is it’s superb fuel economy, boasting 40 kpg in the City and 58 kpg on the highway. The interior is simplistic and new drivers won’t find themselves overwhelmed with a ton of gadgets.

The 2019 Honda Civic is a good option if: fuel-efficiency is a “make it or break it” in your car buying experience

Opt for another vehicle if: you don’t want something so ubiquitous

 

2019 Volkswagen Jetta

Looking for something that will stand out more than the Civic of the Corolla, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta might just do the trick. The best part about the Jetta? It’s stable handling. Its suspension makes for better handling when navigating turns or simply cruising around the city. Like The Corolla, the 2019 Jetta starts just under $20,000 making it a more affordable option for first car buyers. If you want a car with a clean and crisp interior, the Jetta has it, with a modern infotainment system, digital cockpit display, and a Beats audio system. A luxurious vehicle with an economical price tag.

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is a good option if: you are all about that crisp, sleek interior

Opt for another vehicle if: you want an AWD-vehicle; the 2019 Jetta is strictly a FWD vehicle.

 

2019 Mazda CX-3

There’s no denying that SUVs can be costly. Larger tanks mean more fuel needed to fill up. SUVs are typically seen as the best of the best, especially in the snowy Canadian winters. If you’re looking for an SUV, but don’t want to pay SUV prices, consider a compact SUV such as the 2019 Mazda CX-3. The CX-3 handles and performs like an SUV, even in the harshest of weather without the addition of a massive tank. The i-ACTIV AWD system makes driving in poor conditions less stressful and can actually detect poor conditions to prepare you ahead of time. The exterior gives off a sporty-vibe and the compact SUV even comes equipt with sports mode for a more thrilling ride. Another perk? They 2019 Mazda CX-3 starts at just over $21,000 – a reasonable price for all you get!

The 2019 Mazda CX-3 is a good option if: you are in the market for an SUV that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg

Opt for another option if: you plan to have many passengers as the legroom in the backseats is limited

 

2019 Hyundai Ioniq

This vehicle is completely different than any on this list. How so? It’s fully electric! For the earth-conscious new drivers looking to skip out on paying at the pump, this one is for you. The Hyundai Ioniq base model offers around 200 km on a single charge, making it a great ride for occasional and city drivers alike. The Ioniq is also available in a Hybrid option if you are looking to get a little bit more out of it. Charging is significantly cheaper than filling up at the pump and there tend to be rebates available when it comes to electric/hybrid vehicles. The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq lineup starts at just over $32,000, making it cheaper than most of its competitors.

The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq os a good option if: you want a fuel-free vehicle that will help save the earth and your wallet

Opt for another option if: you plan on taking long road trips frequently; although the range is quite good, charging takes a lot longer than just filling up, making pit stops last quite a bit

 

Buying your first vehicle is exciting and although you may want to dive into the first one you come across, it’s important to do your research to ensure you are getting the best car for your needs. Of course, we love helping people drive away in their desired ride – our Dealer Invoice Report can help you save even more money on your first vehicle.

Looking to get into your first ride AND save some of your hard-earned money on the purchase? Contact us today to get your FREE Dealer Invoice Report!

CarCostCanada

Gear Up for Summer 2019 with These Fire Rides!

As Canadians, we know what it feels like when it’s “the time of the year” with the sun in its full form and winning over those endless months of snow! Not to forget, this is the best time for all car enthusiasts to get rolling and show off your prized possessions on the road.

While summer is the best time to share and enjoy the aesthetic beauty of the car you invested in, it’s important to still consider the other factors surrounding a vehicle including safety, performance, and efficiency. To make you the best recommendation, we outlined some of the new car deals in Canada that can surely be your best bet this year.

Check out the popular cars for summer 2019:

 

Hyundai Veloster N

Termed as the hotter version of the original Veloster hatchback, this car is the performance car to set your eyes on this summer. Priced at $34,999, this one comes with a 2.0L turbocharged engine tunes with the exhausts to allow crackling on overrun.

New front and rear fascia, grille, that killer LED look, interior designed for the sports fans, customized technology for automation and an exhilarating performance makes it one of the coolest hatchbacks to look out this season. Amongst all hatchbacks, this deal is worth chasing for!

 

2019 Subaru Ascent

The family-sized SUV for all your summer adventures is right here. The 2019 Ascent comes with a spacious interior and offering seating for up to 8 passengers. It is a complete package of convenience, sport, safety and robust performance experiences. The engine is powered by a 2.4L turbocharged boxer four connected with the all-wheel drive to improve response times and performance.

Coming in Touring, Convenience, and Limited models this summer, this is Subaru’s largest vehicle till date with pricing starting from $35,995.  Needless to say, this car is envisioned and engineered for comfort for not only you, but also your family. If you are planning for a summer getaway, this is the car you must own.

 

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt

Wondering what’s missing in the list? Yes, the spicy hot audacious Ford Mustang Bullitt series is back this year. If you are planning to hit the road with that brash and hard-to-ignore-sound that turns all heads around, this is your deal. This car is basically an auditory reminder for summer lovers and powered by the V8-powered GT with a price tag starting from $46,595.

There are driving modes for all your moods: from normal to comfort to sport to track driving. Interestingly, it comes with launch control and drag-strip setting to add to the thrill and one heck of a riding experience. You can customize and mix-match any of these modes in this limited edition ride by Ford that is worth the experience for all the Mustang fans out there.

 

Mazda MX-5

With its exemplary mechanics, this Mazda cult make is back yet again with an extra 20 hp engine for better performance. Mazda entitles this one as the world’s best selling roadster and without a doubt, the MX-5 has so far been the bang for the buck ride with all the exciting new design and safety features it comes with. Along with the advanced blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, it also includes the smart city brake support and a rear view cam like never before. And you get a cherry on the top. Literally – yes. Its convertible model comes with a choice of black cherry or brown top.

 

BMW M2

A list without BMW is unfinished business. The BMW M2 amalgamates everything that BMW lovers look for. It comes with an engine upgrade – turbocharged inline-six engine, tougher suspension, stick-shift transmission, new colors, powerful braking system and much more! This powerful roadster reassures you that BMW is a beast when it comes to building an ultimate driving machine! It is definitely one of the best sports cars under $100,000 we bet you want to flaunt this summer!

 

2020 Audi R8 Coupe/Roadster

Spectacular – inside out. That’s what the new Audi R8 is. With the gorgeous exterior and classy interiors, this one is eye candy for the Canadian roads this summer. Would you imagine Audi breaking the long known notion of building a sports car instead of their family and luxury cars? They have surely done a great job with this high performing beauty running up to 602 hp and promising a 0-100km/hr in just 3.3 seconds. The exclusive Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires add to the sporty look of the car. Audi does a great job continuing the legacy of R8 yet again.

 

2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

With the endless range of variants in the Porsche 911 range, the GT3 RS is arguably the most eye-catchy sports car of all times. With a maximum power of 500 hp, this car is made for the race-track and is a perfect thrill catcher for the Canadian roads raising the 0-100km/h needle in just 3.4s. Its wide body, graphics and design are unbeatable this summer. Heading out for a fun road trip to the countryside? This one ‘s for you!

 

Make the most of this summer with CarCostCanada reports making the decision easier for you with a detailed pricing, comparisons and best dealerships outlined for you.

 

CarCostCanada

Car Comparison: Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla

Year after year, the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla have been pegged against one another as top contenders in the economical sedan realm. The 2019 versions of both of these vehicles bring new features and improvements that have been noted by consumer feedback. The Civic continues to have the sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles whereas the Corolla is only available in the sedan style.

These vehicles are both sensible choices for a wide range of drivers as they have a reputation for being reliable but an affordable choice all-around. Understanding the implications and differences that each of these vehicles has will help you narrow down the choice perfect for you. Although these vehicles are quite affordable, having dealer invoice reports will help to ensure that you get the best car deals in Canada for financing purposes. Keep reading to learn about the key differences between the Civic and Corolla and how you can get the best price on each.

 

What is the Difference in the Vehicle’s Exterior?

For the Honda Civic, its standard has stayed the same since 2016, getting a mild facelift for 2019. Corolla has been mostly unchanged since 2014, with mild changes a couple years back. In the sedan form, both vehicles have almost identical exterior dimensions. As mentioned before, the Civic comes in a hatchback and coupe structure as well, which adds variety to the Civic model. The Corolla does come in a hatchback body style but that is a completely different car with a different engine.

In this sense, the Civic takes the lead as there are more form options to choose from as most car models these days do not have all three choices as an option.

 

What is the Difference in the Vehicle’s Interior?

Overall, in regards to the design, material quality, and overall fit, the Civic has a nicer interior but the Corolla has a leading advantage that beats out any compact car: their class-leading rear legroom. This allows back-seat passengers to have enough legroom to create the feeling that it is a much bigger car. There is a significant 4 inches of more legroom in the Corolla than the Civic.

Another popular factor of the Civic is that the digital gauges in the dashboard make you feel like you are in a more expensive vehicle. The displays in the Civic, in general, are nicer to look at. Thus, the breakdown comes down to this: the additional leg room positively changes the passenger experience so if that is an important factor, the Corolla is your best bet. If the aesthetic and look of the car are more important, the Civic takes the point.

 

What are the Differences in terms of the Internal Mechanics?

The Honda Civic has 2 available engines whereas the Toyota Corolla has one. Both of these front-wheel-drive cars have the option for an automatic or manual transmission.

2019 Honda Civic 2019 Toyota Corolla
  • Engine 1: 2.0-liter inline four; 158 horsepower, 138 lb-ft of torque; 30 miles per gallon in city driving and 38 mpg on the highway
  • Engine 2: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four; 174 hp, 167 lb-ft of torque; 32 mpg city/42 mpg hwy
  • Engine 1: 1.8-liter inline four; 132 horsepower, 128 lb-ft of torque; 28 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway

Comparing the two vehicles’ internal mechanics, the Civic is a clear winner. The two engines that it has both beat the Corolla. It continues to deliver excellent performance on the road while having an eco-variant that is better than the Corolla.

 

What are the Differences in the Technology?

As technology continues to grow, integration with vehicles has become common. Both of these models have developed high-level safety tech to be standard on models. For the Corolla, there is the Toyota Safety Sense-P which is a pre-collision system dedicated to detecting pedestrians, dynamic radar cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist and automatic high beams. The Honda Sensing safety tech suite has a similar built-in functionality but does not include the automatic high beams.

Another aspect of technology that is popular is the infotainment system and both vehicles have a version of an audio and infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports exist in both vehicles but the Civic is the only one that has both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Overall, the technology aspect of both vehicles is very similar. The only step forward the Civic has is that the connectivity features are more tailored for Android and iPhone users with the pairing component integrated.

 

What is the Difference in Pricing for the Civic and Corolla?

As mentioned before, both of these vehicles are affordable compact vehicles, which makes them both at the lower end of the price range. The Corolla’s first trim beats the Civic on price, starting at $18,700 compared to the Civic sedan at $19,450. The Civic continues to be more expensive than the Corolla, even at the top trim ($27,300 compared to $22,880). Thus, when it comes to financial constraints and budgeting, the Corolla does take the lead.

With dealer invoice reports, you will be able to identify any rebates and rewards you qualify for and negotiate a price that is fair for you.

 

Conclusion

Overall, both choices are great for anyone looking for a simple compact vehicle. They both have their benefits and depending on what you value as a driver and a passenger, one may appeal more than the other to you. Contact our team today about getting a free dealer invoice report so that you can get the best price for the vehicle fit for you.  

 

CarCostCanada

Subaru Ascent vs. Volkswagen Atlas

With spring in full swing, you may be considering a new vehicle for the year. There are many options in the market whether you are looking for a convertible or a family vehicle, which means understanding the benefits of different makes and models will help to narrow your decision down. After choosing your choice of car, you have your choice of financing or leasing, which is where Car Cost Canada comes in. With free dealer reports, you are able to maximize your benefits at lowered costs.

 

One of the top car comparisons today is of these 2 three-row SUVs: Subaru Ascent and the Volkswagen Atlas. Although they are both similar vehicles, they each have their benefits that may resonate with some drivers more than others. Whether you are looking at their road performance or the interior make, there are specifics that may fit your needs better.

 

Keep reading to learn more about the two vehicles, which makes them top SUV options, and what the differences between them are:

 

What are the main differences between the two vehicles?

 

The 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring is known to be a well-damped ride, solid acceleration, with rich leather upholstery whereas the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas V6 is popular for the spacious interior with minimalist designs.

 

They both have a large group of the market, targeting consumers that are looking for bigger vehicles, with the need to transport mass groups of people and items. These vehicles are similar in the sense that both are three-row SUVs, assembled in the U.S. with strong engines. They each have multiple trim levels, within starting prices of one another. However, the Ascent comes with a standard all-wheel drive whereas the Atlas requires the V6 S trim to unlock that feature, pricing itself a little higher. At their top trim levels, both models have an all-wheel-drive equipped with every option, including a panoramic sunroof and tow hitch.

 

On-the-Road Comparison

 

Volkswagen has 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, which can propel the Atlas to go at 60 mph within 8 seconds flat. On the flip side, the Ascent has 260 horsepower with a 277 lb-ft torque, allowing it to go at 60 mph within 6.5 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster than the Atlas.

 

The Ascent has had multiple updates and refinements to the vehicle itself and how it operates, and while it does not have a conventional automatic, it is one of the best continuously variable transmissions (CVT) in the market. It does a great job at ensuring the engine is in the thick of the torque curve. The Atlas does have an eight-speed automatic, predisposed to shifting early and often. It is a fuel-saving strategy which is great for the driver and environment but it does create more of a busy driving experience which results in it being a better fit for some drivers than others. The Atlas also has a Sport mode which assists in making that less of a hassle or you can choose to drive in manual mode, allowing you to have the autonomy for what your drive on-the-road feels like.

 

The Ascent scores EPA estimates of 20 mpg in the city, 26 on the highway, and 22 combined. Comparatively, the Atlas estimates about 17, 23, and 19-mpg figures, respectively. Both vehicles are great drives and not harsh rides. The Ascent also has a light and quick off-center steering when frequent corrections are required, which is less desirable for spirited driving. On the other hand, the Atlas reacts to change progressively, which changes the feel of the vehicle, instilling confidence in the driver.

 

The Interior

 

As mentioned previously, the Atlas is known for its spacious interior and minimalistic designs. It features a mild mix of complementary colours whereas the Ascent is styled with several colours from the seats to the dashboard, in a variety of chrome accents. Both are comfortable vehicles with accommodating first seats. Each row is spacious and comfortable after the first seats in the VW, providing an enjoyable ride for passengers.

 

To measure in regards to cargo, each vehicle has different measurements, pending on how the seats are positioned. For the trunk space, maximizing seat use, the Ascent wins with fitting 5 carry-on suitcases whereas the Atlas fits 4. However, with the rows folded down, the Atlas can fit 38 total whereas the Ascent can fit 33.  

 

In Conclusion…

 

Both of these vehicles are great choices whether you are looking for a family car or one that can carry large amounts of cargo. They both have their advantages: the Ascent provides all-wheel drive without upgrading to a certain trim for that feature and there is optimal space without needing to take down seats. On the other hand, the Atlas can fit more cargo when all the seats are brought down and provides a good driving experience for fuel efficiency purposes. Depending on what you are looking for, one may fit better. Thus, you should take a look at your needs, what your vehicle will be used for, and benchmark the better option for yourself.

Whether you are looking at one of these vehicles or have your eye on another one, take advantage of Car Cost Canada’s free reports so that you can get the best purchase price going forward. Maximize your opportunity and lower your costs. Contact our team today for more information on how you can leverage a dealer report to your advantage.