Try Before You Buy: Alternative Test Drive Options

Turo: Rent Your Dream Car for a Day (or Weekend)

Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing service, allows you to rent cars directly from individual owners. With Turo, you can book the exact make and model you’re considering, giving you the chance to experience it in real-world conditions over a longer period. Whether you’re looking at a Toyota Tundra or a Hyundai Ioniq 5, you can rent the car for a day or even an entire weekend. This gives you the chance to see how it fits into your daily routine—commutes, errands, and even a road trip.

If your local area doesn’t have the vehicle you’re interested in, consider expanding your search to a nearby city or planning a fun weekend getaway. Combining an extended test drive with a trip can help you experience the car in various environments and make your decision with confidence.

Rental Car Companies: Hidden Gems at Airports

While traditional rental car companies may not always offer the exact model you’re searching for, they often carry popular makes and trims that can help you get a feel for a similar driving experience. Instead of relying solely on online booking options, consider calling local rental branches—especially those at nearby airports, which often have a larger and more diverse fleet. Speaking directly with an agent can increase your chances of finding the vehicle you’re looking for.

Driving a rental for a few days allows you to experience the vehicle in your typical driving conditions, from your daily commute to running errands, helping you assess comfort, fuel efficiency, and usability over an extended period.  Please keep in mind that some rental companies only stock base models, which may not have all features buyers want to test.

Borrow from Friends or Family

If a friend, neighbor, or family member owns the car you’re considering, they may be willing to let you take it for a spin. This option not only gives you a hands-on driving experience but also offers valuable firsthand insights. Ask them questions such as:

• If you had to do it over again, would you buy this car?
• Has it been reliable?
• What do you like or dislike most about it?

However, it’s important to keep in mind that what might be a dealbreaker for them may not be an issue for you. For instance, a friend who is 5 feet tall might struggle with visibility in an SUV, but if you’re taller, it might not be a concern at all.

Test Drive Events and Manufacturer Ride-and-Drives

Many manufacturers host special test drive events at local venues, allowing potential buyers to get behind the wheel of multiple models in one day. These events often include closed-course driving, hands-on feature demonstrations, and Q&A sessions with product specialists. Keep an eye on automaker websites or local event listings to see if any are coming to your area.

Extended Dealer Test Drives

Some dealerships may be willing to offer extended or overnight test drives if you express serious interest in a vehicle. This can give you the chance to test the car during your daily routine and make a more informed decision. Be upfront with the dealership about your desire for an extended experience—they may require a refundable deposit, but it could be well worth it for the peace of mind.  Please keep in mind that not all dealerships/manufacturers allow for extended test drives so if planning this route check dealer policies in advance to avoid disappointment.

A Test Drive is a Personal Experience—Make it Count

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new car, but a thorough test drive is crucial to making sure it truly fits your needs. Everyone’s driving style and preferences are different, so while a friend may swear their SUV is the best thing since sliced bread, you might not feel the same way once you’re behind the wheel. After all, their taste in cars might be as questionable as their love for liver—definitely not for everyone!

Exploring alternative test drive options allows you to gain a deeper understanding of a vehicle’s comfort, practicality, and drivability without the pressure of a sales environment. Whether it’s renting through Turo, borrowing a car from a friend, or seeking out an extended dealer test drive, these methods can help you make a confident, informed purchase decision.

At My Car Insight, we guide you through every step of the car-buying journey, from research to test drives and negotiations. Let us help you find the your next car with confidence and ease.