A new year always coincides with the launches of new models and variants by auto manufacturers, making it the ideal time to buy that new car or bike that you were thinking about. But before you take the plunge, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Consider your average usage
  All of us would love to own that muscular-looking SUV that makes off-roading look easy. After all, who hasn’t dreamed of driving off into the sunset over tough terrains with someone special in the passenger seat?
  While that is great as the stuff of dreams, when making a buying decision, it’s good to be more practical. Ask yourself a simple question. Where are you going to drive your car most? In the city or on dirt tracks? If the answer is a daily commute to work, then do you really need an SUV?
  Of course, for most people a car (or a bike) is not just about utility but also about self-expression, a way of showcasing your identity. That is perfectly natural, and if you want to spend a little more for this, it’s completely fine. But think about challenges like the cost of ownership, cost of operations and parking hassles, among other things, before you take the final decision.
• Automatic or Manual?
  Cars with automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular in the country. Automatic transmission cars are great if you drive yourself around, have a long commute and often get stuck in traffic jams. However, automatic transmission variants cost more and give a lower mileage. Take all these factors into account before making a choice.
• Petrol, diesel or CNG?
  Generally speaking, petrol versions of cars are cheaper and peppier, though it goes without saying that petrol is more expensive than diesel. As a result of this cost difference, the operating cost of a diesel car may be lower. However, be aware that diesel variants cost more and also, generally speaking, need higher maintenance.
  CNG is eco-friendlier than either petrol or diesel. But you need to figure out if there are enough CNG outlets in your city. Otherwise fueling up could be a hassle.
• Sell or Trade-in?
  Auto dealers often offer to exchange your old vehicle when you are buying a new one. While saving you the hassle of finding a buyer for your used car, this may not be a good idea financially speaking. Often the price offered in such exchanges is lower than what you get if you sell your car independently. Do some research, online as well as offline and then decide.
• No Claim Bonus
  If you are eligible for a ‘No Claim Bonus’ on your insurance, you can transfer it to your new vehicle. You will have to do some additional paperwork, but the savings in the cost of insuring the new car could be significant. So, check with your dealer.
• Budget and Financing
  While it is all right to aspire for bigger and better cars, it is always better to check your loan eligibility first. And when it comes to financing, who better to turn to than India’s No.1* Bank – HDFC Bank. Some key features of HDFC Bank Car Loans include EMIs starting at Rs.1,595 per Lakh^, Rs. 5 Lakh personal accident insurance and top-up loan after nine months. What’s more, the HDFC Bank brings you a special, never-before-seen offer of Zero Foreclosure Charges till 31^stMarch, 2018.
  
  With HDFC Bank, you also get flexible repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 84 months, so that you can choose what works best for you. It also offers up to 100% financing to save you the hassle of coming up with a down payment. The Bank follows a transparent documentation process and can get you an in-principle loan approval in less than 10 minutes.
  
  Now, all you need to do is visit http://www.hdfcbank.gaddi.com/ and start looking for your dream vehicle. You can sort your search by EMI, Model or Price, compare results, read reviews and then make your decision.
  
  Happy driving!
  
  *Based on Retail Loan book size (excluding mortgages).
  Source: Annual Reports as on 31st March 2017
  ^ Loan disbursal at sole discretion of HDFC Bank Ltd.

They say, “All that glitters is not gold.” While this may be true in most cases, when Indian festivals come around, you can be sure that the glittering yellow metal hanging off people’s necks and hands is indeed, gold