To make sure you buy a new car that fits your needs, start by considering these questions:

1. Do I prefer a domestic or an import brand? Does it matter?
2. Do I need (or just want) a large new car, a medium-sized new car -- or a small one?
3. Do I need (or just want) a vehicle with rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or some sort of all-wheel-drive/4x4 system?
4. Do I prefer a soft ride, a firm, "sporty" ride -- or something in-between?
5. How important is power/performance? Do I need (or just want) a new car that can do 150 mph?
6. Do I need (or just want) a vehicle that can carry cargo? How much?
7. What kind of gas mileage is acceptable -- and what's not? Is my personal "tipping point" at least 28 mpg -- or is 16 mpg OK if the car otherwise meets my needs?
8. How about safety? Are crash-test scores very important? The presence (or absence) of features like side-curtain air bags, stability control and brake assist?
9. What level of warranty coverage meets my expectations? Is three years/36,000 miles enough? Or is the minimum five years/50,000 miles?
10. Is resale/trade-in value a big consideration? Some brands hold their value much better than others.
11. How much do you want to spend?