Once you are on the car lot, begin by simply sitting in the car and asking yourself if it is a good fit. It's a little like trying on clothes. People come in different sizes and shapes, including tall, short and portly. And they have different tastes in what they want.

Once you get settled, ask yourself a few questions to help you define your feelings about the car:

Is it easy to get in and out of the car without stooping or banging your head?

Is there enough head-, hip- and legroom? Remember to sit in the backseat, too.

Is the driving position comfortable? Do you sit too low or high in the car? Can you tilt or telescope the steering wheel for a better fit?

Is the seat comfortable? Is it easily adjustable? Is there a lumbar support adjustment?

Are the gauges and controls easy to read and use?

How is the visibility? Check the rearview mirror and the side mirrors and look for potential blind spots.

Does your body type match the pedal positions? If not, are the pedals adjustable?

Before you start driving, adjust the seat, the seatbelt and the mirrors. Turn off the radio so you can hear the engine and concentrate on the driving experience.

The salesperson may tell you to drive along a predetermined route, using a series of right-hand turns that lead back to the dealership. This is not necessarily the best way for you to evaluate the car. Tell the salesperson what kind of test-drive you want (within reason) and you'll probably get it.

Basically, your test-drive should match your driving requirements. If you regularly drive into the mountains, find a hill and see how the car climbs. If you have a highway commute, get on a freeway and see how the car accelerates into traffic and performs at higher speeds.

Once you are driving, evaluate these specific points:

Acceleration and passing acceleration: Does the car downshift quickly and smoothly?

Engine and road noise: How does the car sound when you strongly accelerate? Is there a lot of noise from the tires?

Hill-climbing power: Does the vehicle downshift quickly?

Braking: How is the pedal feel? Do the brakes "grab" suddenly?

Steering and handling: Is the vehicle responsive? Can you feel the road through the steering wheel?

Suspension: Is it stiff or soft? Does the vehicle ride comfortably on a rough road?

Seat comfort and ergonomics: Are the seats adjustable? Can you reach all the controls easily?

Source Motors, Inc

18353 Mt. Langley St.

Fountain Valley, Ca 92708

949-722-4500

http://www.sourcemotors.com/