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Manufacturer test drive comparison

A test drive is often your only chance to see how a car will fit with your life. Here's how to make the most of the opportunity.

Stacey Cole
Stacey Cole

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You wouldn't buy a house without properly seeing inside, and you wouldn't agree to marry someone after a five-minute date. Why, then, is it considered normal to decide whether to buy a new car based on a sales pitch and a five-minute test drive around the block?

Car dealers often insist on joining you for a running sales pitch during the ride. Other dealers understand the importance of a test drive when preparing to make such a large financial investment and allow for a longer, more comprehensive experience.

Find out how different car manufacturers tackle test drives and everything you should ask or do during the experience.

What's in this guide?

How do car manufacturer's test drives compare?

Conduct your own manufacturer test drive comparison with this handy table.

ManufacturerLength of test driveSpecial featuresHow to book a test drive
AudiNormal test drives are as negotiated with the dealer. Audi Driving Experience is a full-day course in various locations.Audi Driving Experience is a set of specialised courses including advanced driving, sports driving, ice driving and driving courses solely for women. Located around the world, including Australia, Austria and Sweden, prices start at $500 for the women's course and up to $6,500 for the ice driving experience in Austria.You can request normal test drives by completing an online form. You can book and pay for Audi Driving Experiences online.
BMWNormal test drives are as negotiated with the dealer. BMW Driving Experience is a day-long course.BMW Driving Experience is an extended test drive and an all-day driving course. It costs more than $1,000 with prices varying between states.You can book a normal test drive or the BMW driving experience online or by phone.
FordAs negotiated with each dealership.Australian residents can request a test drive online. Non-Australian residents must phone for an appointment.
HoldenAll Holden models can be test driven for 24 hours or for a shorter period.Receive a $500 Visa card if you test drive a Holden and then purchase a similar car in the same price range within 30 days.You can book a test drive online or by phone.
HondaAs negotiated with your local dealer.You can select up to three Honda models when requesting a test drive online.After you fill in an online form, your closest dealer will contact you.
HyundaiAs negotiated with each dealership.Hyundai previously ran a promotion whereby you could earn 5,000 Velocity points by test driving a Tucson or Santa Fe. That promotion has expired, but similar promotions could occur in the future.The online form allows you to specify your preferred date and time of the test drive. A representative from Hyundai will then contact you to make firm arrangements.
IsuzuAs negotiated with your local dealer, depending on the Isuzu model you wish to test drive.Choose whether you wish to test drive a D-Max ute or MU-X when booking the test drive.You can book test drives with an online form.
JeepAs negotiated with each dealership.You can only select one Jeep model when booking a test drive.You can request contact with an online form.
KiaAs negotiated after making contact with your local dealership.You can select up to three Kia models when requesting a test drive.After choosing the model(s) you wish to test drive, a map will be displayed showing your closest dealerships that stock those models. Phone numbers and opening hours are displayed for each dealership.
MazdaAs negotiated with each dealership.You can request a test drive online.
Mercedes-BenzTest drive bookings made online fall within a one-hour slot. You could negotiate a longer test drive directly with your local dealer.After selecting your preferred Mercedes-Benz model, fuel type and transmission, you will be shown a map of all dealerships in Australia that offer that model. Select a dealer, then you can book the date and time of your test drive.
MitsubishiAs negotiated with each dealership.You can select one Mitsubishi model for a test drive.The online form allows you to indicate your preferred date and time, but a final booking will be made when a representative phones you after you submit the form.
NissanNissan Pathfinders can be test driven for up to 24 hours. Other Nissan cars are as negotiated with the dealership.You can negotiate test drive length and extent over the phone before the appointment.You can request an extended test drive for a Nissan Pathfinder online. You can request regular test drives online or request a call-back.
SubaruAs discussed with your local dealership.Subaru offers the "test drive at yours" service on VX and Impreza models in some areas, where a representative will bring the model to your home or workplace for you to test drive.You can request normal test drives with an online form. A separate online form for the "test drive at yours" service will advise you if the service is available in your area.
SuzukiAs negotiated with each dealership.You can select up to two models to test drive.The online form will prompt you to select your preferred dealer. A representative will then contact you to make a test drive booking.
ToyotaAs negotiated with each dealership.The manufacturer encourages extensive test drives and recommends test driving during the week.You can request a test drive by phone or online. The dealership will accept walk-ins depending on availability.
VolkswagenAs negotiated after making initial contact via an online form.Complete an online form and a representative will contact you.

How to book a test drive

Dealerships have different requirements when it comes to booking a test drive. Some dealerships will allow walk-ins to organise a test drive there and then, while other dealerships will only allow test drives that have been scheduled in advance. Dealerships are increasingly allowing online bookings to keep up-to-date with modern consumer practices. See the table below to compare manufacturer test drive requirements and find out how each manufacturer schedules test drive bookings.

Do I have to pay to take a test drive?

Generally, you will not have to pay in order to test drive a vehicle. However some manufacturers may charge a fee or offer specialised experiences that you will have to pay for. These are detailed in the table below. If possible, it is always a good idea to contact the manufacturer or dealer directly to see if there will be any costs associated with the test drive.

What to do on your test drive

Taking a new car for a test drive can be a daunting experience. The excitement of potentially purchasing a new car combined with the pressure of the time-sensitive situation is usually worsened by being under the salesperson's watchful eye. When taking a car on a test drive, it is important to not panic and to not feel rushed or under pressure.

Consider the following tips when taking a car for a test drive:

  • Taking a car for a five-minute trip around the block does not constitute a sufficient test drive. However, this is what many car dealers will encourage you to do. A minimum of a 30-minute drive is a more realistic expectation for a test drive.
  • Remember that you are the one spending the money, and you are the one who will be spending a significant proportion of your life driving the car. Try not to let the salesperson control the transaction or the test drive.
  • Aim to test drive several cars in one day, even models that you are not keen on purchasing. Comparing the test drive experience of one car to another will give you much better idea of the real car experience than evaluating one car on its own.
  • If you will regularly be carrying other people in the car with you, such as your partner or children, bring them along during the test drive. Load your family into the car just as you would on any other day and gauge their reactions to the comfort of the car and the ease of getting in and out. It can be difficult to assess backseat comfort from the driver's seat, so have other people sit in the back seat and give you their opinion on comfort, airflow and legroom.
  • If you will be carrying elderly people, people with disabilities or anyone who has problems moving around, either bring them to the test drive with you or take the time to assess the car from their point of view, particularly regarding the ease of getting in and out of the car.
  • If you'll be installing a baby seat or booster seat, bring the seat with you. Take the time to fit the seat into the car to see how easily they can be installed and how well they fit. Assess the height of the seat once it's installed and imagine lifting a baby or toddler in and out several times. Is this a good height for you?
  • Think about how much storage you'll need. If you regularly carry large items like bulky sports equipment, bring it with you to make sure everything will fit. If purchasing a small car, think about your weekly shopping needs and ensure you'll have plenty of storage room in the boot.
  • When it comes to the test drive itself, don't allow yourself to be limited to a quick trip around the block. Drive to a nearby shopping centre or parking facility and try your hand at parking. Choose a relatively tight spot and ease your way in. Can you see all four corners of the car when parking? Notice how much visibility you have when backing out of the same parking spot.
  • Safety is of the utmost importance when choosing a car, and one of the most important elements of safety is the brakes. The dealer may not like this, but it's vitally important to test the brakes before committing to purchasing the vehicle. Navigate to a quiet street or the back area of a parking facility, drive at regular speed, then imagine a cyclist or child has just appeared in front of your car and quickly apply the brakes. Did the car stop swiftly and securely, making you feel safe?
  • Finally, experience how the car handles at freeway speed. Drive to your nearest freeway or motorway on-ramp and enter the roadway. Notice how quickly the car can get up to the speed limit. Did the car feel like it was struggling or was the acceleration process effortless?

A test drive can be a high-pressure experience, run by experienced salespeople who know how to make buyers feel a certain way. It may not be easy, but it is important to take back control of the situation and insist on performing a full inspection and road test of the car before committing to purchasing it.

Frequently asked questions

How can I test how the car handles at night?

Most dealerships are only open during daytime working hours, but you'll likely spend a significant amount of time in your car at night. You have the right to ask to revisit the dealership at night to see how the car handles in the dark and to experience the interior and lights. If the dealer won't allow this, choose another dealership that will.

Do I need to use the dealership's finance provider?

No, you do not. The car salesperson may whisk you into their finance office as part of the sales process, but you are under no obligation to use their preferred finance provider. Take the time to compare car loans to make sure you get the best deal.

Finance a Vehicle
Vehicle insurance options

Compare car finance

Data updated regularly
$
Name Product Interest Rate (p.a.) Comparison Rate (p.a.) Monthly Repayment View Details CTA
Plenti Car Loan
Plenti Car Loan
From
4.89%
(fixed)
5.44%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.89% p.a.
Borrow up to $100,000 with a Plenti Car Loan and benefit from no early repayment or exit fees.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.89% p.a.
Borrow up to $100,000 with a Plenti Car Loan and benefit from no early repayment or exit fees.
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Loans.com.au - New and Dealer Used Car Loan
Loans.com.au - New and Dealer Used Car Loan
From
4.67%
(fixed)
5.22%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.67% p.a. based on your risk profile
Finance a new car and benefit from features such as fast approval, no ongoing fees and an optional balloon payment. Settle the loan before 30 November 2021 and enter the draw to win a $1,000 fuel gift voucher. T&Cs apply.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.67% p.a. based on your risk profile
Finance a new car and benefit from features such as fast approval, no ongoing fees and an optional balloon payment. Settle the loan before 30 November 2021 and enter the draw to win a $1,000 fuel gift voucher. T&Cs apply.
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View details
IMB New Car Loan
IMB New Car Loan
4.99%
(fixed)
5.34%
You'll receive a fixed rate of 4.99% p.a.
A low minimum borrowing amount of $2,000 that you can use to purchase a new car or one that's up to two years old.
You'll receive a fixed rate of 4.99% p.a.
A low minimum borrowing amount of $2,000 that you can use to purchase a new car or one that's up to two years old.
Go to site
View details
NRMA New Car Loan
NRMA New Car Loan
From
4.99%
(fixed)
5.69%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.99% p.a.
Purchase a new or used car up to 2 years old and benefit from a fixed rate and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.99% p.a.
Purchase a new or used car up to 2 years old and benefit from a fixed rate and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
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View details
NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan
NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan
From
4.45%
(fixed)
4.45%
You'll receive an interest rate from 4.45% p.a. to 15.45% p.a.
Borrow up to $100,000 for terms between 18 months and 7 years. You can use this loan to buy a car, motorbike, boat, motorhome or caravan.
You'll receive an interest rate from 4.45% p.a. to 15.45% p.a.
Borrow up to $100,000 for terms between 18 months and 7 years. You can use this loan to buy a car, motorbike, boat, motorhome or caravan.
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View details
Wisr Secured Car Loan
Wisr Secured Car Loan
From
5.19%
(fixed)
5.46%
You'll receive a personalised interest rate from 5.19% p.a. to 17.69% p.a. based on your risk profile
A flexible car loan from $5,000 - $50,000 with personalised rates and rewards for strong credit customers.

You'll receive a personalised interest rate from 5.19% p.a. to 17.69% p.a. based on your risk profile
A flexible car loan from $5,000 - $50,000 with personalised rates and rewards for strong credit customers.

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OurMoneyMarket Car Loan
OurMoneyMarket Car Loan
From
5.5%
(fixed)
5.85%
You'll receive a fixed interest rate from 5.5% p.a. to 14.99% p.a. based on your risk profile.
Borrow between $2,001 and $75,000 to finance a new or used car up to 10 years.
You'll receive a fixed interest rate from 5.5% p.a. to 14.99% p.a. based on your risk profile.
Borrow between $2,001 and $75,000 to finance a new or used car up to 10 years.
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View details
CUA Secured Fixed Car Loan
CUA Secured Fixed Car Loan
6.79%
(fixed)
7.16%
You'll receive a fixed rate of 6.79% p.a.
A secured loan with a high maximum borrowing amount up to $100,000. Redraw facility and no monthly fees.
You'll receive a fixed rate of 6.79% p.a.
A secured loan with a high maximum borrowing amount up to $100,000. Redraw facility and no monthly fees.
Go to site
View details
RACV New Car Loans
RACV New Car Loans
From
4.99%
(fixed)
5.69%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.99% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.99% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.
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View details
Latitude Personal Loan (Secured)
Latitude Personal Loan (Secured)
From
5.99%
(fixed)
7.26%
You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.99% p.a. and 21.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
Lock in a competitive fixed rate when you offer security. Loan can be used for any purpose and repayments are flexible. You can check your interest rate before applying with no impact to your credit score.
You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.99% p.a. and 21.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
Lock in a competitive fixed rate when you offer security. Loan can be used for any purpose and repayments are flexible. You can check your interest rate before applying with no impact to your credit score.
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View details
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed
From
9.99%
(fixed)
10.88%
You'll receive a fixed rate between 9.99% p.a. and 18.99% p.a. ( 10.88% p.a. to 19.83% p.a. comparison rate) based on your risk profile
An unsecured loan up to $55,000 you can use for a range of purposes and pay off over up to 7 years. Note: Majority of customers will get the headline rate of 12.69% (13.56% comparison rate) or less. See Comparison rate warning in (i) above.
You'll receive a fixed rate between 9.99% p.a. and 18.99% p.a. ( 10.88% p.a. to 19.83% p.a. comparison rate) based on your risk profile
An unsecured loan up to $55,000 you can use for a range of purposes and pay off over up to 7 years. Note: Majority of customers will get the headline rate of 12.69% (13.56% comparison rate) or less. See Comparison rate warning in (i) above.
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View details
SocietyOne Car Loan
SocietyOne Car Loan
From
6.99%
(fixed)
6.99%
You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.99% p.a. and 20.49% p.a. based on your risk profile
A loan from $5,000 to use for a range of purposes. Benefit from no ongoing fees and no early repayment fee.
You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.99% p.a. and 20.49% p.a. based on your risk profile
A loan from $5,000 to use for a range of purposes. Benefit from no ongoing fees and no early repayment fee.
Go to site
View details
NRMA Used Car Loan
NRMA Used Car Loan
From
6.49%
(fixed)
7.19%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.49% p.a.
Finance a used car with NRMA and benefit from a fixed rate term and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.49% p.a.
Finance a used car with NRMA and benefit from a fixed rate term and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
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View details
Credit Concierge Car Loan
Credit Concierge Car Loan
From
3.85%
(fixed)
4.91%
You'll receive a fixed rate of 3.85% p.a. with a comparison rate of 4.91% p.a.
Get access to over 20 providers to fund a new or used car.

You'll receive a fixed rate of 3.85% p.a. with a comparison rate of 4.91% p.a.
Get access to over 20 providers to fund a new or used car.

Go to site
View details
Symple Loans Personal Loan
Symple Loans Personal Loan
From
5.75%
(variable)
6.47%
You'll receive a personalised interest rate from 5.75% p.a. to 25.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
Borrow up to $50,000 to pay for what you need.
You'll receive a personalised interest rate from 5.75% p.a. to 25.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
Borrow up to $50,000 to pay for what you need.
Go to site
View details
Stratton Finance New Car Loan
Stratton Finance New Car Loan
From
4.05%
(fixed)
5.63%
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.05% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with
Apply for up to $250,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.05% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with
Apply for up to $250,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
Go to site
View details
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Compare up to 4 providers

Compare car insurance side-by-side and get quotes

Data updated regularly
Name Product Roadside Assistance Accidental Damage Storm Choice of Repairer Agreed or Market Value
Budget Direct Comprehensive
Budget Direct Comprehensive
Optional
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: Awarded the 2019 Finder Award for the Best Value Car Insurance, this policy offers solid coverage at a low cost plus you will get 15% discount on first year's premium when you take out a policy online. Budget Direct’s claims service has received a 4.2/5 based on nearly 5,000 customer reviews.

Who it might be good for: People who want a comprehensive policy without breaking the bank.
Get Quote
View details
Bingle Comprehensive
Bingle Comprehensive
Market
Finder's summary:Bingle consistently comes up as one of the cheaper insurers out there. It only covers the basics, so you don't get to choose your own repairer, you're not covered for personal items in the car and unless you add it as an option, you won't get a hire car if your car is stolen. But this keeps its premiums low.

Who it might be good for: Someone who wants a low-cost option that covers them for the basics.
Get Quote
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Coles Comprehensive
Coles Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: Coles have two-tiers of comprehensive car insurance to choose from. You'll earn double flybuys points at Coles supermarkets and you can get $10 off your Coles grocery bill every time you redeem 2,000 Flybuys points. If you're over 30, you can get roadside assistance free for a year.

Who it might be good for: Coles customers and Flybuys collectors.
Get Quote
View details
Qantas Comprehensive
Qantas Comprehensive
Optional
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: You'll be able to choose how comprehensive you want your cover to be with optional extras like choice of repairer and the option of agreed or market value. Plus earn Qantas Points for joining and paying your premium. Sign up by 2 May 2021, you can earn up to 30,000 Qantas Points (points awarded will be based on your premium). T&Cs and eligibility apply.
Get Quote
View details
QBE Comprehensive
QBE Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: QBE is a sustainable insurance company and also Finder's Green Insurer of the Year 2020 Award winner. This policy offers the highest level of protection available from QBE including three-year new car replacement. You can also save $75 when you purchase a new comprehensive policy online. T&Cs apply.

Who it might be good for: Those that are looking for a more environmentally friendly insurance choice.
Get Quote
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Virgin Comprehensive
Virgin Comprehensive
Optional
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: Finalists for the 2019 Finder Awards for Best Value Car Insurance, Virgin Comprehensive provides a good level of cover for a decent price. Get 15% off on your first year’s premium when you purchase a new eligible comprehensive car insurance online. T&Cs Apply.
Get Quote
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Stella Comprehensive
Stella Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: Stella’s a female-focused insurer. It'll cover you if your car is damaged as a result of domestic violence. It offers higher cover for baby gear than most, with up to $2,000 cover for prams, strollers and child seats. You get a free Bauer magazine subscription when you sign up and a portion of your premiums go to supporting female-led businesses.

Who it might be good for: Someone who wants a female-centred car insurance policy (it will cover men too).
Get Quote
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Youi Comprehensive
Youi Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Finder's summary: Youi Comprehensive Car Insurance is one of the few providers to include roadside assistance in its policy. You'll also get access to YouiRewards which gives you discounts on furniture, parking and more. Youi also has a live chat feature on its site to talk through any questions.

Who it might be good for: People over 25 who want comprehensive cover with a focus on customer service
Get Quote
View details
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Car Loan Offers

Important Information*
Logo for IMB New Car Loan
IMB New Car Loan

You'll receive a fixed rate of 4.99% p.a.
A low minimum borrowing amount of $2,000 that you can use to purchase a new car or one up to two years old.

More info
Logo for Beyond Bank Low Rate Car Loan "Special Offer"
Beyond Bank Low Rate Car Loan "Special Offer"

You'll receive a fixed rate of 4.69% p.a.
Take advantage of a competitive rate, pre-approval and no early repayment fees when you finance a car under two years old.

More info
Logo for RACV New Car Loans
RACV New Car Loans

You'll receive a fixed rate from 4.99% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.

More info
Logo for NRMA New Car Loan
NRMA New Car Loan

You'll receive a fixed rate of 4.99% p.a.
Purchase a new or used car up to 2 years old and benefit from a fixed rate and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.

More info

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