Sedans have been around for decades. If you’re interested in one, there’s good news. They’re available to match any driving style, size, budget, and design you prefer. You can get them from subcompact sizes to full-length luxury limousines. It all depends on what you want. But before you buy one, you must test-drive it. And on that test-drive, you need to check certain things. We tell you what those things are.
Cargo Space
An important thing to check on your test-drive is the size and the shape of the cargo area. Two different sedans may have the same volume of cargo space available, but their shapes could be completely different. This can dramatically impact what you can store or carry in the cargo space. The shape and size of the opening of the cargo area can be different as well. So if you often carry bulky items like skis or golf bags, or musical instruments, then you need to check these. Some sedans even have folding rear seats to allow for longer items to be stored.
Passenger Space
Set the driver’s seat to your usual position and then sit in the passenger seat behind it. Check if there’s enough space for whoever may sit behind from time to time. Ensure that they won’t be cramped.
Highway Behavior
This is the car you’ll probably be driving every day. In that case, you will be commuting with it, taking it on road trips, and driving a lot on highways. So, test it on a highway. Keep the music off and drive it at highway speeds. Listen to how much road and wind noise gets into the cabin. Pay attention to the highway ride quality and high-speed stability as well.
Hit Bumps
As opposed to what is usually done, try and drive the passenger side wheels through potholes or sharp bumps. See if the car remains stable or gets unsettled. Check how the impact is cushioned. See how long the vehicle takes to settle down after impact.
Visibility
It’s important that you’re able to see out of the car easily. Check for blind spots and the view from the rear window. You need to be comfortable every time you drive.
