Things used to be so simple. If you were shopping for a new car, you went to your local dealer. Now, though, there are many choices, from brokers to supermarkets to importers and the internet. This variety works for the consumer. Wider choice means more competition and sharper prices. On the other hand, the choice can be bewildering. DonÂ’t worry: weÂ’ll talk you through the options.

Where can I buy?

Franchised dealer
UK dealers are more competitive on price than they were a few years ago. YouÂ’ll still need to haggle to get the best deal, though. Dealers score highly by offering services which the internet retailers and importers donÂ’t.

UK broker
Brokers source cars from the franchised network but use their bulk-buying power to get healthy discounts. The best deals they can get will be very hard for you to match on your own.

Importing: the DIY route
ThereÂ’s nothing to stop you getting in touch with foreign dealers directly. You could save thousands because many cars are still much cheaper in some continental countries.

Importing through a broker
ThereÂ’s a small army of companies ready to bring right-hand drive cars into the UK. These brokers will sort the import paperwork for you. WhatÂ’s more, many will even deliver to your door, saving a trip abroad.

Car supermarket
If imported savings look tempting but you donÂ’t want to wait, try a car supermarket. Those which concentrate on imports bulk-buy popular models in attractive specifications.

Is importing extra hassle?
Importing will take more work, although buying from a supermarket or importer should cut this to a minimum. Should you import a car yourself, life is more complicated. It will mean ringing foreign dealers to find someone willing to help. Try calling the UK brochure hotline (see the data tables in the back of What Car? magazine) to obtain a European dealer directory. Alternatively, log on to manufacturersÂ’ overseas websites and search out dealer lists. Start with those in large towns or near the Channel ports. YouÂ’ll need to pick up the car from the dealer abroad. This takes time and money, but allows you to confirm that the spec is correct. ThereÂ’ll be some import paperwork, so call the DVLA on 0870 240 0010 and ask for a pack on personal imports. Then thereÂ’s the problem of insuring your car for the drive home. Insurance must be held in the country in which the car is registered, which stops you arranging cover with your own insurer until the UK registration paperwork has been done. The dealer will normally arrange temporary registration for the journey home, including third party cover, but the insurance problem tempts many to allow an importer to do the work for you.

How do I know my moneyÂ’s safe?
Most buyers feel quite safe spending with a franchised dealer, while employing a small company youÂ’ve contacted over the telephone or internet can cause sleepless nights. It pays to take care over whom you are dealing with.

Check the company youÂ’re using is registered with Companies House (www.companieshouse.co.uk). If it is, you know that none of the bosses has been disqualified from acting as a company director. Ask to be put in touch with other satisfied customers, too.
If ordering a car through an intermediary, insist that all monies except the broker’s fee are paid directly to the supplying dealer. That way, you should still get your car if the company goes out of business. Alternatively, an ‘escrow’ holding account can give peace of mind: a bank holds the funds safe until the car is ready for delivery. If the car is sourced in the UK there should be no question mark over spec, but it’s worth checking upon delivery. When buying an import from a foreign dealer, importer or supermarket, confirm that the car you order is to UK spec and have this confirmed in writing. Any missing equipment will hurt your car’s resale value.

What warranty is there?
Cover will vary depending on the make of car and where you purchase it from. Cars sold by foreign dealers, importers and supermarkets typically have two-year warranties. You could buy top-up cover, but this will eat into your saving. DonÂ’t assume the top-up offered by the importer or supermarket will be competitive. Try the independent warranty providers such as Car Care Plan (www.carcareplan.co.uk) or Warranty Direct (www.warrantydirect.co.uk), too.