Carsales adds functionality for new-car buyers

Australia's premier car buying site has just made it easier to reach a decision on a new car -- without even setting foot in a showroom

Many buyers find the whole new-car buying process confronting. There's the worry that the salesperson will push you into a car of colour and spec you don't want -- just because that's what's on the lot.

And how would it be if you thought you had the budget set aside for the car of your dreams, only to be told by the salesperson that all the good gadgets will blow a hole in those dreams -- because they're extra-charge options?

Wouldn't it be so much better to 'build' a car from the worry-free comfort of your own home, connected to the internet?

In what's believed to be a world first, the Carsales Network has just introduced new functionality for the site's New Car Showroom, allowing users to find out the full cost of purchasing a new car, with the individual options required. If the price isn't right, the new system allows buyers to uncheck the options selected, in order to bring down the on-road price.

Here's how it works: First, select 'New Cars games ' from the blue column on the left of the Carsales home page.

Add the make, model or other search details in the different fields of 'Find New Cars'. The list will bring up new cars that meet your search criteria -- and superseded models too, if they're still in dealer stock. From the list of vehicles types, click on the one that suits you best.

Over to the top right of the page is a price guide figure. Select the appropriate state and the page will calculate a driveaway price for the vehicle you want. From there, scroll down to the Optional Features section (below 'Overview') and select the options desired. As you select each option, the driveaway price is updated on the fly. Note that the adjusted price will remain in sight as you check (or uncheck) optional extras. Prices quoted also include Luxury Car Tax payable when applicable.

By clicking on the tabs above the Overview section, you can check out cars in stock, news/reviews articles and a make/model competitor listing.

It doesn't get much easier. And the new search features are also available on the Carpoint website.

The system empowers new-car buyers like never before. In addition to finding out the on-road price for a new car, with the options you want (including colours), you can also find out about special pricing deals and discounts.

So when it's time to front up at the dealership, all that's left to do is take the car for a test drive and crunch the salesperson on price.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...