Keeping your options open
The options are all about creating your ultimate driving experience. But when you're dreaming about a fully loaded vehicle, knowing that some options can really drive up a vehicle's price will bring you right back down to earth.
Before you visit the dealership, consider the available options and write down the "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves". Taking the list to your dealership will help you figure out what you can realistically afford.
There are four main categories of options :
- Performance Engine, handling packages, trailer-towing packages
- Styling - Selection of colours, sunroofs, spoilers, leather seats
- Safety & Security - Advanced theft deterrent systems, side-curtain air bags
- Comfort & Convenience - Sound systems, climate control, cruise control
Because different features are offered as standard on some vehicles and as options on others (not even taking into account the differences between base- and up-level models), it can be difficult to compare vehicles. To complicate matters even further, you can buy options in three ways:
- Individually: Choosing and purchasing the exact options you want. It can cost more than buying an option or value package, and can lead to a longer wait for vehicle delivery.
- Value Package: Also known by other names, like "Popularly Equipped". The dealers and manufacturers outfit a stock of vehicles with options that buyers frequently choose. It's a great choice when the group matches what you want. But if some of your "must-haves" aren't in the package, you'll have to choose between going without or adding them individually.
- Option Package: A set of options bundled together for a purpose, like a "sport package". This package has the same advantages and disadvantages of the Value Package.
