In order to assess one of your largest investments and long-term companions in life, a test drive before buying a vehicle is absolutely essential. Testing a car is mostly a matter of common sense and careful observation. Read on to know what exactly you should consider while going for a test drive.

Homework
Decide upon what type of car is appropriate for you – a hatchback, sedan, van or SUV? 
Once you have decided on the type, choose the models which fits your budget. Study reviews on the short listed models and ask for feedbacks from car experts or people who are using the model.

Strategy 
• Drive the selected models back-to-back on the same day so that you can make a proper comparison.
• Consider bringing a friend along to keep the salesperson occupied and point out things you might overlook.
• If you have a small garage, consider checking if the car fits in to the space available.
• Once you’re at a dealership, let the salesperson know that you want to buy a particular model and that you’ll be comparing the models and prices at other showrooms as well. Doing this should fetch you the best deal from the dealership.
• Certain options and powertrains can greatly alter the feel of a vehicle and hence it is important to drive the particular model and trim level you intend to purchase. If a dealer doesn’t have the particular variant you are looking for, find a dealer that does.

Getting started
• Although turning the key and mashing the throttle might be your first inclination on a test drive, but instead, first walk around the vehicle and inspect it thoroughly.
• Observe how certain features might become bothersome in day-to-day use such as low ground clearance, inadequate storage cubbies as well as a boot etc.
• Check the ease of entry and exit into the vehicle, including the third row of seats, if applicable.
• Remember to review the vehicle’s safety features, such as the number of airbags, active-safety electronics and adjustable seatbelts.

Before the drive
First, get behind the wheel and take stock of how the primary controls are laid out. 
• Find out whether the driving seat is comfortable, supportive and adjustable to suit your height and vision. 
• The ease with which the infotainment system can be operated. Are the display screens easy to view and operate?
• Check out the ease to use the primary controls. Is the clutch too hard or the steering too heavy? 
• If the car is meant for long journeys, look for one with a big boot. A family car should have a roomy backseat.

On the drive
• Drive the vehicle on multiple road surfaces and at varying speeds. Don’t be convinced into a quick drive only around the dealership or on smooth roads. 
• Do not switch on the audio system during the test drive - the music system can be checked out after the main run. You need to be alert for all suspicious noises from the car. Undue noises and rough ride do not augur well for a new car. Do not hesitate to ask for explanations regarding unfamiliar sounds. 
• Also, do not initially put on the air-conditioner, to check the pick-up and power of the vehicle. 
• Try a full forward thrust with quick shifts to find out how powerful the car is. 
• Check the turbo lag.
• See if the brakes are effective.
• Take several corners to evaluate the vehicle’s composure and extent of body roll.
• Check how smoothly the transmission operates when driving spiritedly.
• The suspension should not be very soft, one that imparts a continuous bounce. Neither should it be so hard that it makes the ride uncomfortable. 
• Park the vehicle. Find how easy it is to reverse and park with its rear view mirrors.
• Test the turning radius of the vehicle.
• Observe how well you can see out in all directions, particularly through the front and rear glasses while driving.
• Check the level of noise, vibration and harshness felt inside the cabin and ask the reasons for the same.
Remember, while taking a test drive, avoid any distraction due to sales pitching by the sales executive. Judge the vehicle on your own.

Before the final decision
• Carefully study the terms of warranty and the parts not covered under the warranty.
• Find out the basic service charges and the cost of frequently damaged components. Also review the vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
• Find out the location of service centre.
• Look for the free accessories, terms and warranties offered by other dealers. It will help you negotiate for the best bargain with better terms. Read the warranty thoroughly before booking.
Go through the same process with all the vehicles you have short-listed and make your final decision only after this process.