Purchasing a new car in the United Kingdom has significantly changed in recent years. According to a CEIC Data report, the UK witnessed a remarkable 17.90% increase in passenger car sales in December 2023 compared to the same month in the previous year. This indicates a strong recovery in the automotive industry and growing demand for new vehicles among British consumers.
British consumers have several options for purchasing and financing a new car. According to an Expatica report, dealerships remain the most common choice, with over half (51.8%) of Britons opting for this method when purchasing a new or used car.
Online tools have always been famous for car research, with a recent study suggesting that a whopping 87% of Britons use them to research potential car purchases. Now, online platforms are shifting towards more full car purchases as well, with a recent survey in the same research indicates that 25% of respondents aim to purchase through online platforms. This is up from 18% in 2021.
The shift in consumer behaviour has been influenced by the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms, and the growth of online car marketplaces has contributed to the increasing popularity of online car buying.
Without doubt, buying a car is a substantial investment, and it's crucial to meticulously weigh the pros and cons of online and in-dealership purchases. Online car buying offers convenience, a more comprehensive selection of vehicles, and potentially lower prices.
Advantages of Buying a Car Online
More Informed Car Buying
Buying a car online is more suitable if you have limited car knowledge.
Online car retailers provide extensive resources to help you make an informed decision, offering detailed car reviews from experts and actual customers. These reviews give you a comprehensive understanding of a vehicle's performance, features, and potential drawbacks.
Moreover, online chat support is readily available to answer any questions you may have throughout the buying process. This level of customer support can be invaluable for those needing clarification on technical aspects or guidance in making the right choice.
In contrast, visiting a dealership can be intimidating for someone with limited car knowledge, as you may feel pressured to decide without fully understanding your options. You can be subjected to 'hard sell' techniques.
Online, you'll find many tools and guides that give you a thorough understanding of your needs.
In-depth, unbiased car comparison guides are readily available, along with other helpful resources designed to assist you in making a well-informed decision. These tools provide valuable insights into the suitability of different vehicles, allowing you to evaluate your options.
By using these resources, you can ensure that you make a choice that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences.
Lower Prices from Dealership
Online studies suggest that online car buyers offer 10-15% less on popular and budget-segmented cars and 20-25% less on average on expensive cars.
found that car buyers in the UK make an average of 2.4 visits to dealerships before making a purchase decision.
These all contribute to the higher costs of buying a car through dealerships.
Peace of Mind
Buying a car online is more peaceful. It removes the pressure often associated with dealership sales representatives, allowing you to browse vehicles, compare options, and make decisions at your own pace without feeling pressured to purchase.
You can access detailed information about each vehicle online, including specifications, features, and pricing. This knowledge gives you a well-rounded understanding of the car's strengths and weaknesses, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Another key benefit of buying a car online is that it reduces the risk of impulsive decision-making and falling victim to aggressive or upselling techniques from salespeople.
When purchasing a vehicle online, you have ample time to thoroughly research and compare your options without the pressure of a salesperson's presence.
This allows you to make a well-informed, rational decision based on your needs and budget, minimising the likelihood of buyer's remorse, which is more common in a dealership setting where salespeople may employ persuasive tactics to encourage a purchase.
At Motorfinity, we do not believe in 'hard sell'. Each customer is allocated a dedicated account manager who develops an understanding of their customer's needs and timescales. Their mission is to find the best deal suited to your requirements.
No Need to Haggle or Negotiate
Online car buyers - like Motorfinity have already negotiated with the manufacturers on your behalf to secure the best terms and incredible discounts from the beginning. Unlike dealerships negotiating can be challenging and time consuming, with Motorfinity, you can be confident that you are getting the best price without the need to haggle.
Extensive Inventory and Wide Selection
While dealerships may have limited inventory restricted to specific brands, models, or trims. The extensive inventory allows you to explore and compare a greater variety of options, increasing your chances of finding the perfect vehicle that meets your needs and preferences.
How Motorfinity Provides Extra Value
With all these potential advantages of Motorfinity goes the extra mile to provide unmatched value and support throughout your online car buying journey, ensuring a seamless and satisfying experience from start to finish. Here's how Motorfinity standout:
Have Limited Opportunity for a Test Drive
Motorfinity tackles limited test drive opportunities by offering exceptional support from top-tier experts.
Our professionals provide detailed technical specifications and essential information, ensuring you can make an informed decision.
Building Lasting Relationships at Motorfinity
At Motorfinity we are committed to building lasting relationships with our customers, from the initial enquiry to car delivery and beyond. Our dedicated after sales support ensures you have a reliable partner every step of the way.
Personalised Video Calling
At Motorfinity, we take customer service to the next level with our video calling feature. Connect with your dedicated expert in a more personalised way, allowing you to discuss your requirements, get answers to your questions, and receive tailored recommendations - all from the comfort of your own home.
By choosing Motorfinity for your online car buying experience, you can enjoy the numerous benefits of purchasing a vehicle online while receiving the extra value and support that Motorfinity provides. Our commitment to exceptional customer service, lasting relationships, and personalised assistance ensures that you can make an informed decision and have a seamless car buying experience.
Motorfinity
At Motorfinity, we provide exclusive discounts on brand-new cars for our eligible audience. You can enjoy up to 32% discount on all makes and models.
Are you eligible?
Our nation’s Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services, NHS, Police and Prison Services, the Education and Social Care sectors and more form our eligible audience.