Choices.  Choices.  Choices.  Choosing the Right Car for You.

Mr. Businessman/Ms. Exec. Family-on-the-go. Solo mom or dad. Weekend warrior.  Whatever defines you. . .whatever you do for work or play, there’s a car out there with your name on it.  From among the dozens of makes, hundreds of models, and thousands of options–sedate sedans to show-off supercars–choosing the right car can be overwhelming. How do you narrow down the selection to which one’s the best for you and your needs?

A smart way to start your car-shopping list is with a dollar figure:  how much can you really afford for monthly payments–to purchase or lease–(assuming you don’t pay all cash upfront)?  Like a homeowner, who’d rather not be ‘house poor,’ i.e. spending a huge percentage of regular income on a mortgage, you probably don’t want to be ‘car poor.’

So, step one, determine your budget, including what it will cost for fuel (electric, gas, or some combo), insurance and maintenance.

That dollar determination will logically lead to step two:  what auto brand, and which of their models, fit into my budget?  Looking for luxury, a newer generation minivan, something sporty, or a reliable, more fuel-efficient compact for ‘round-town errands and school pickups?  Your search will be a lot narrower, and easier, if you decide what you have to spend and what kind of car that money will buy before you start visiting showrooms.

Which makes you ready for step three.  Just as there are a seemingly infinite number of cars to consider, there are countless magazines, consumer guides and other info sources you can investigate (like right here at wheelsnews.com). It’s easy to research articles, lists and professional recommendations like, “The Best Buys of (fill in model year)” for exactly the kind of car you’re looking for.  Professional sources that include test-drive results, comparative data between similarly priced cars from different manufacturers, and unbiased ‘Pros and Cons’ for the vehicle you want should be high on your research list.

Now that you know “which car,” “how much” and “exactly what my money will buy me” (including factors like the safety and other features you want; the car’s reliability reputation and resale value), you’re ready to do some serious car shopping.  Buy from the dealer who’ll give you the best deal on precisely the car you want, feature-for-feature,  financed or leased (if that’s the way for you to go), including the best price for your existing car (if you’re in a trade-in situation).