I want to buy a new car but can't get enough time on the test drive - what do you suggest? | Ask Honest John

What do you think of Elon Musk? Have your say | No thanks

I want to buy a new car but can't get enough time on the test drive - what do you suggest?

I'm considering a Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate. I've had a very brief test drive, but I'm struggling to get anything more than about 20 mins round the block. I accept that the dealership will seek to keep high performance vehicles to limited mileage and limited availability to 'time-wasters', but if I'm going to part with £70,000 it seems reasonable to expect a decent amount of time in the car. Any thoughts?

Asked on 28 July 2017 by Kerr Morton

Answered by Honest John

Maybe you can offer to hire the car for a bit longer, with a refund if you buy. Also, they do have AMG days at circuits (I've been on a couple). That's the best way to find out what the cars can really do. Ask the dealer about that too.

Tags: estates test drive track day experiences buying a new car buying and selling consumer advice

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

Select a few terms below

Similar questions

Can I test drive a vehicle before I tax and insure it?

I am looking to buy a second-hand Jaguar X-type estate. Can I personally test drive the vehicle before I tax and insure?

Is it normal for a car dealer not to allow a test drive until a deposit has been paid?

I'm three hours drive from a dealer selling a car that my son wants. I contacted the dealer and he said we can't test drive the car unless we buy it by putting down a £500 deposit. Apparently they wont...

What engine will best match my 2004 Mondeo 2.0-litre Estate?

I'm looking to change my old manual 2004 Mondeo 2.0-litre Ghia Estate for the latest equivalent model. This appears to be the Titanium range, however, all I can find in the petrol model is the 1.5 T EcoBoost...

Related models