If you’ve always dreamed of owning a brand‑new car, retirement can feel like the perfect moment to finally treat yourself. New cars come with the latest safety features, modern comforts, better fuel efficiency, and the exact colour and fit‑out you’ve dreamed of. And for a while at least, you shouldn’t need to worry about major maintenance costs.

But before you take the plunge, it’s worth weighing up a few important factors to make sure you get the best value - and the best car - for this stage of life.

The downside: depreciation

Before we go any further, there is one important downside of a new vehicle to talk about: depreciation. The moment you drive off the forecourt, your car’s value drops — and quickly. Consumer NZ says new vehicles can lose up to 30% of their value in the first year alone. You won’t feel that loss immediately, but you will when it’s time to sell.

“That makes borrowing to buy them really problematic,” warns Sorted personal finance lead Tom Hartmann.

So if you’re considering buying new, make sure you can comfortably pay upfront - and that you’re okay with the loss of value you’ll realise when it comes time to sell. Consumer NZ generally recommends buying the newest, safest second hand car your budget allows if you want the best value.

Another smart option is a demonstrator vehicle. These offer many of the benefits of a brand new car, but with a lower price tag and less depreciation.

New is still for you

If depreciation is no deterrent to you, then here are some things to consider as you start your new car search.

1. Choose the right level of tech

Modern car technology can make driving safer and easier - but too much tech can be overwhelming. Useful features include:

• • Lane‑keeping assistance
  • Blind‑spot monitoring
  • Autonomous emergency braking
  • Speed‑limit display
  • Head‑up display (key info projected on the windscreen)

Just remember: the more gadgets a car has, the more there is to break. You don’t need every bell and whistle – just the important ones.

2. Keep running costs low

On a fixed income, running costs matter. So look for a car that is:

• • Fuel‑efficient
  • Cheap to insure
  • Known for reliability
  • Affordable to service

Don’t forget that hybrids can be a great option for reducing fuel costs without the need for charging infrastructure.

3. Think about the grandkids

If you’re planning more time with the grandies, then make sure you can get them in the car too. Check for:

• • Enough seats
  • ISOFIX or other secure child‑seat anchor points if you need them
  • Easy‑access rear doors
    
    

4. Prioritise comfort

As we age, comfort becomes a major factor in enjoying driving. Be sure to consider things like:

• • Seat height (too high or too low makes getting in and out more difficult)
  • Seat comfort for long trips
  • Smoothness of the ride
  • How easy the car is to park (very wide vehicles can be stressful)

Take a proper test drive to check these factors out, not just a quick trip around the block.

5. Check visibility

Good visibility is essential for confidence and safety. Ask yourself:

• • Are the windows large and clear?
  • Are there big blind spots?
  • Is the rear visibility good?
  • Does it have a reversing camera or 360‑degree camera?

 

6. Future‑proof your choice

Think ahead a little. Will the boot fit:

• • A grandchild’s buggy?
  • A walker?
  • A fold‑up wheelchair if needed later?
  • Your golf clubs!

Choosing a car that adapts with you can save you from having to upgrade sooner than planned – with all the extra cost that can entail.

Written by: Sonia Speedy

Sonia Speedy has been a journalist for over 20 years, working in newspapers, magazines and radio. She also runs an online platform for parents at familytimes.co.nz. She lives on the Kāpiti Coast with her young family and loves writing stories that help make people's lives easier.