With test drives, car dealerships give customers the opportunity to test the car they want to buy through a road test. The test drive, therefore, is a fundamental step in choosing a new car, because it allows you to know its driving characteristics and to understand if you are comfortable behind the wheel. But how does a test drive practically work? How long does it last? Does it have a cost? An in-depth study to find out more.

Buying a new car (but also a used one), especially for those who are passionate about engines, really represents a crucial moment. You have to decide the car manufacturer and then the model and a thousand other details that will make the car that will come out of the dealership unique. Beyond the more or less important details, what really matters when you are about to make such a special purchase is to understand the driveability of the new car . Driving, in fact, is not a merely technical question, but a skein of emotion and rationality, of gestures to be done mechanically and vibrations that are felt to the skin. So, to dispel any doubts, it’s best to book a nice test drive .

What is a test drive

Literally, the English expression test drive translates to “driving test” , also better known as “ road test ”. In reality, however, a few differences emerge if we thoroughly investigate the use that the motor industry makes of the two terms. The “road test” formula, in fact, is usually used by newspapers that deal specifically with engines to report the columns dedicated to reviews of new cars, made after a test drive that takes place “on the road”. The test drive , on the other hand, refers to the possibility that car dealerships give potential customers to test the car they intend to buy, taking a short test drive . Finally, in some cases, events during which you have the opportunity to drive famous cars, such as Ferrari or Lamborghini, also take the name of test divas, even within official circuits. Adrenaline-filled experiences very similar to track days, which also take place at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza

Find out more about Track Days

How it works and how the test drive takes place in the dealership

Returning to the classic concept of test drives, it is interesting to know how they work , which follows a fairly standard script, with some variations depending on the dealership that carries them out. Usually, these are activities organized by appointment , in which the customer takes part, who gets to drive, and the car showroom consultant, who occupies the passenger seat and indicates the route to follow. The test, in fact, takes place on a public road open to traffic , near the dealership. It is important to note that in the event of an accident , you are still covered by the dealer’s insurance.

How long does it last?

The duration of the test drive varies , but usually ranges between 20 and 30 minutes , an adequate amount of time to give the future buyer the chance to understand what sensations he receives from the car while driving and to become familiar with the spaces and controls.

How much?

Since the purpose of the purchase is to buy the car, the dealership has every interest in granting the test drive to the potential customer. For this reason, as a rule, this type of road test is totally free . In fact, some car dealerships organize periodic test drive events to let anyone interested try out the cars.

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