Others are no more helpful than the usual sales brochures. Interactive kiosks also are springing up, serving as a no-pressure information source before you encounter a salesperson. Situated in dealerships, shopping malls, banks, and credit unions, the kiosks use touch-screen computers to display details of vehicles that are available. In some installations, after studying the product information, you can pick up a phone next to the kiosk to make an appointment for a test drive at a nearby dealership. You don't have to traipse from dealer to dealer just to see what features and colors are available.
Help is available by phone from car companies, dealers, and over the Internet.
Even with all these options, you eventually will probably have to go to a dealership to complete the deal. Seeing, touching, and driving a vehicle is much more informative than a virtual-reality display on a computer screen. Our advice is to explore the new ways of shopping for a car, but don't abandon abandon the traditional approaches. If you use both, you will be better informed and more likely to find what you want at the lowest price. Verizon New Media Services Inc. All rights reserved.