Choosing a new vehicle is a big decision, and one of the most exciting parts of the process is taking potential options out for a test drive. But a test drive isn’t just about sitting in the driver’s seat for a quick loop around the block—it’s an opportunity to truly connect with a vehicle, feel its features, and picture it in your daily life. At Tri State Auto, we encourage all our customers to approach the test drive with a plan to make the most of this key experience. Here’s a guide to help you optimize your test drive so you can drive away feeling confident and informed.

Before You Drive: Setting Your Priorities

Determine Your Must-Haves

Before stepping foot on the lot, think about your essential needs and wants in a vehicle. Are you focused on finding an SUV for family road trips or a sleek sedan for efficient commuting? By knowing your priorities—whether they’re comfort, technology, or handling—your test drive will be more purposeful. This is also a great time to jot down any specific questions you may have about features, performance, or maintenance.

Get Familiar with the Dealership’s Options

Tri State Auto offers a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to spacious trucks and SUVs. Familiarizing yourself with the dealership’s inventory can help you narrow down your test drive list to vehicles that fit your needs. Our team can provide insights on the types of vehicles that might be best suited to your lifestyle, saving you time and helping you focus on the best options.

Making the Most of Your Time Behind the Wheel

Observe Interior Comfort and Practicality

As soon as you sit down, take a moment to adjust the seat, check the mirrors, and settle in. Does the cabin feel spacious or cozy? Are the controls intuitive and easy to reach? Try out any features that you’d be using regularly, like seat adjustments, climate control, and the infotainment system. At Tri State Auto, we believe that a vehicle’s interior should cater to your needs, whether it’s ample cargo space or a user-friendly dashboard layout.

Test the Drive: Pay Attention to Handling and Power

When you’re ready to hit the road, focus on how the vehicle responds to different driving conditions. Accelerate smoothly, make a few tight turns, and see how it handles braking. Pay attention to any road noise, the comfort of the ride, and the vehicle’s response to your inputs. A test drive route with a mix of city streets and highways can provide a fuller sense of the vehicle’s performance in everyday scenarios.

Technology: Try It All Out

Many of today’s vehicles come packed with technology and driver-assist features that can enhance safety and convenience. During your test drive, try out any available tech features like backup cameras, adaptive cruise control, or smartphone connectivity. Testing these elements firsthand will help you determine if they’re easy to use and compatible with your preferences. At Tri State Auto, our vehicles often come equipped with cutting-edge features that cater to modern drivers’ needs, making the tech test an important step.

After the Drive: Reflect on the Experience

Ask for Another Look

Once you’re back at the dealership, it’s a good idea to take another look at the vehicle. This is a chance to inspect the exterior design, ask any remaining questions, and make sure there weren’t any details you missed during the drive. Having a final walk-around of the vehicle can offer clarity, helping you feel confident in your decision.

Consider Long-Term Satisfaction

After each test drive, take a moment to reflect on the vehicle. Can you picture yourself in it for daily commutes, weekend adventures, or long road trips? At Tri State Auto, we understand that a new vehicle is an investment in both lifestyle and functionality, so we encourage customers to focus on finding the right match for their long-term needs.

Whether you’re exploring sedans, SUVs, or trucks, a thoughtful test drive can make all the difference in choosing the right vehicle for you. Tri State Auto is located at 721 S Highland Ave, Jackson, and our friendly team is here to assist you with any questions.