Car Subscription Vs Car Buying - Which Makes More Sense

The recent boom in car subscription plans being offered by manufacturers in India has allowed an extremely convenient way for people to get a car for themselves. They offer flexible tenure options starting from one year and charge a fixed monthly fee that covers vehicle cost, road tax, insurance as well as maintenance. Car subscription is a neat choice; however, it is only suitable in certain scenarios. Those who don't fall under those scenarios are better off buying a new or used car instead. Today, we're going to list out the exact situations wherein a car subscription is suited and the scenarios where a car purchase is more preferable.

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When you must opt for a car subscription?

1. If you move cities regularly: If you're the kind who shifts base regularly, you are the main target audience of car subscription models. Buying a new car wherever you go doesn't make sense since that means you'll have to pay road tax and other costs each time. And if you choose to take your own car wherever you move that comes with its own set of problems.
2. If you love driving new cars: Have you been itching to try that new ride but not sure whether it will suit your needs or not? Instead of going on short test drives, how about subscribing to it for a year and getting a good feel of the ride before making that all-important decision?
3. If you want to avoid a down payment: By opting for a car subscription, you'll save up on the down payment cost that you'd usually spend on a car purchase. Of course, over the long term, this will prove expensive but it's useful if you don't have a big amount lying with you at that given moment.
4. If you want to simplify the process of getting a car: The paperwork involved in a new car purchase can be daunting for some. This can be avoided by opting for a car subscription.

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When you must opt for a car purchase?

1. If you want a family car: If you dream of taking long vacations with your family, car subscriptions are not for you. The security associated with owning your own car cannot be beaten by the subscription model. So be patient and opt for a car purchase, so that the car remains with you for years to come.
2. If you like customisation: It's tempting for some to change the look of their car to suit their style. Maybe adding a spoiler at the rear end of using bumper stickers. This is a strict no-no when it comes to subscription cars. So if you're a fan of customisations, do opt for a car purchase.
3. If you want the cheaper choice: This is the golden rule - a car purchase is always cheaper overall compared to a car subscription. If monthly costs are added up and compared against the cost of buying a new car, there are huge savings to be harnessed.
4. If you like going on long drives: Subscription cars are sanctioned with two number plates - one commercial and one private. This leads to higher toll amounts so those who like road trips must keep this point in mind.

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Those are all the facts you must know about car subscription models before you make your final decision.