Article: Peta Lee from FAIRLADY
Image: AFP

Buying a newcar is always a treat, but you must keep your head about you. Do a quick analysis of your needs versus your wants.

We know it's hard, but do you really need the latest 4x4 for the school run? On the other hand, if you spend every weekend travelling on torturous mountain passes you have to have a vehicle that can take the strain.

Then you need to consider your finances. Work out what you can afford to pay and check out what you can realistically expect to get for your old car if you plan to trade it in – the AA or any reputable car dealership can show you the figures.

As a savvy consumer it's vital that you read the small print on any car finance agreement you sign. Payments may seem to be well within your reach but you need to ask if you will be left with a residual on the car when the payment period is up.

Also bear in mind that a newcar depreciates in value from the moment you drive it out of the showroom. Unless you are buying a classic collectable, think of your car as a liability and not an asset.

That said, if you need new wheels, have fun shopping – nothing beats that newcar smell.

What's new
Kia has launched its beautifully face-lifted Sorento SUV, catapulting it into the same league and category as rivals like BMW’s X3 and Toyota’s RAV4.

Better styling, better finish, luxurious and more spacious, with a quiet ride, it's available in a 4x4 version (R349 995) or a 4x2 (diesel) for as little as R299 995.

Apart from a beautiful finish and features like dual front and curtain airbags, there's a 10-year/150000km warranty that comes with it. Very, very nice.

And even more adventurous
Got a spare million just lying around? Well, bag yourself a fab little GT40! For just R1,35m the glorious retromobile could be yours, from Brad Green Motors in Edenvale (011) 4523805/6.

Cruz control
Summer's ultimate accessory is here. The Silverback Cruz has a Shimano sevenspeed gearbox and coasterstyle wheels. From R1850; go to www.silverback.co.za for details.

Tip
Noticed some mysterious oil spots in the garage beneath your car? Don't ignore them. Oil leaks can lead to seriously expensive repairs in the long run. Phone your friendly mechanic now.

Psst!
Television star Kate Walsh of Grey's Anatomy recently 'splurged', she said, on a 1985 Aston Martin convertible.

"When I moved (to LA) I got a station wagon. Then I got a little car crazy and bought the Aston Martin." Any buyer's remorse?

"No! This was hand-built. It's gorgeous – an elegant British muscle car. It makes doing errands much more palatable." All those errands those poor stars have to run... tsk, tsk.

Hollywood star Lindsay Lohan could give South African taxi drivers lessons! After a night of partying, she raced off in her Mercedes without looking and cut off an oncoming vehicle.

The other car screeched to a halt, while Lindsay continued on her way without missing a beat. She's well known for her vehicular mishaps. A year ago, she crashed her Merc near another celebrity hotspot and ran into a nearby antique shop to hide from the paparazzi.

Image: Republic of Korea, Seoul: South Korean models pose with the new Kia Motor SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) car "Sorento" in Seoul, 27 February 2002.

What is your dream car? Tell us in the comment box below.