After a few years complicated by global supply chain issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian automotive market posted a strong rebound in 2024. According to the Light Vehicle Study by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, new vehicle sales accounted for 1.86 million transactions, a 0.4% annual increase comparable to what the market generated before the pandemic.
The strong comeback of the Canadian automotive market can be attributed to the driver-focused engineering that automakers have been implementing in recent years; however, there’s also a dealership angle to consider. Chevrolet and Ford, two of the most popular brands in Canada, practice a commitment to quality that extends from the design studio to the manufacturing plants and the showrooms. If you walk into a Ford dealership in Oshawa, for example, you’ll likely encounter knowledgeable staff eager to guide you through the features and benefits of their vehicles. Sales expertise and excellent customer service are part of a directive from the Ford Motor Company to uphold the brand and increase sales.
Entering the New Car Market
As a prospective car buyer, you have many choices to narrow down. When diving into the automotive market, the starting point should be the make and model, followed by your specific vehicle needs. Some brands are more focused than others; for example, if you are looking for a luxurious driving experience, you will more than likely search “Cadillac dealership near me,” as Cadillac remains the prestige brand for General Motors. With that being said, don’t settle for any car dealership in Oshawa; rather, be sure it is partnered directly with the automaker.
Evaluating your vehicle needs will determine the type and potential models. Let’s say you want a spacious and family-friendly vehicle to take the kids on hockey runs followed by grocery shopping; in this case, a sport utility vehicle (SUV) with three rows of seats would be an ideal choice. You can get it as a crossover model like the Chevrolet Traverse or the Ford Explorer, but you can always go with full-size SUVs such as the Ford Expedition and the Chevy Suburban.
Conducting Vehicle Research
Let’s say you want a new compact SUV that can handle winter driving conditions. You have narrowed your options down to the Ford Bronco Sport and the Chevrolet Trailblazer, so your next step should be to learn more about their specifications and features.
To learn more about the Ford Bronco Sport and its standard all-wheel-drive system with drive-select options for snow, you should visit the website of your local Ford dealership. If you want better fuel economy and more interior space, check out the online inventory of the Chevrolet dealership near you.
Test-Driving Your Vehicle Choices
When conducting new vehicle research, you will likely see informative reviews, explainers, and testimonials. Keep them all in mind when you arrive at the dealership showroom or sales lot for a test drive. True test vehicle suitability involves your personal experience behind the wheel.
Let’s say you have thoroughly researched the Cadillac XT6 midsize model with three rows of seating. You can bring your entire family along and ensure the test drive lasts at least 20 minutes. Being able to test-drive on the same types of roads you typically navigate is a wise idea, thus underscoring the importance of local dealerships. Take this time and opportunity to adjust the seats, explore all the features, and evaluate the pros and cons noticed during your research.
The Purchasing Strategy
Researching from the dealership’s inventory page allows you to check for all available factory rebates. If you’re unsure of the prospective car brand and make you want to purchase, consider reviewing a collection of dealerships. Better yet, companies such as Novus Auto work directly with high-quality dealerships to provide Canadians with an assortment of make and model options. There will always be three sales prices: the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), the dealership quote, and the final purchase agreement. The Canadian auto market is primed for negotiations, which are often shaped by special programs, dealership discounts, and financing specials, so be sure to inquire about all.