Test driving before buying

I've never been denied a test drive in my life. Last look at a 2010 Prius, the Sales Rep offered me a test drive while his used car Manager looked over my trade. Since I'd already driven one, I declined the test drive, but he gave me the keys anyway so I drove it just to kill time (BTW, we could not reach an agreement so I did not buy).

If a dealer wouldn't let me test drive a car I was serious about buying, I'd simply take my business elsewhere, and not go back to the dealer who wouldn't let me drive one. I'd bet that taking the "legal" angle will work to your disadvantage when all is said and done...YMMV.

 

I test drove a 2009 before my 2010 came in and then the 2010 just to make sure the comments I heard about the seat comfort, etc didn't really bother me. I'm not real sure how you'd mess a Prius up on a test drive, although when I ordered mine they locked it up. If it's a lot car you could test drive it.

Now I also understand peoples concern though. A couple years ago I tested a Lightning Ford Pickup and in the 80's I remember testing a BMW 320i, an Audi Quatro Coupe and a Volvo Turbo Wagon. I almost lost control of the Audi along the Kanawha River. They all put a smile on my face.
Before the Prius and TCH I had an Infiniti FX45. I had a "test drive" where the salesperson actually took me 95mph on a twisty road. He said he knew I was interested in it's performance. He then let me drive it. I didn't buy that one, but a few months later I ended up with a new (undriven) FX45.

 

I test drove a dedicated test vehicle when I was looking into buying my 2010 Prius. And did not test drive the car I purchased. I didn't even ask, so I can't say with certainty whether they would've let me if I asked, but I bet they would. I didn't feel the need, as they also have a 3 day 250 mile money back guarantee on all of their new cars.

Another thing I liked about them was the trade in procedure. I'm used to not only not being able to be present when they evaluate the car, but not even being allowed to meet the person who is evaluating it. With this dealership not only did I meet the guy, I went out with him to observe and comment on his evaluation. We had a nice discussion about my (now old) car, and I was able to point things out and answer some questions for him.

And now I'm pretty happy with my new 2010.

 

I was curious what my mileage would be with all the gear I carry and the roads I drive. The salesman had me drive a used Prius on the lot over night, I put about 100 miles on it. It sold me on the car and the dealership. And both have been great so far, I still get the mileage I test drove or better..