Shopping for a new vehicle is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. With so many options, it’s important to choose an SUV that fits your lifestyle and budget. Asking the right questions can help you narrow your options and make a confident decision. By reflecting on your needs, wants and future plans, you can help ensure the vehicle you choose is the perfect fit. Here are the most essential questions to ask when buying a new car.

Needs typically focus on practicality and safety. Buick SUVs offer advanced safety and driver-assistance features to help enhance your daily drives. Buick has also been ranked the #1 mainstream brand for dependability by J.D. Power, so you know you’re getting an SUV you can rely on.

Wants, on the other hand, enhance comfort and style. Features like a heated steering wheel, massaging driver seats or a power liftgate—standard on Buick Envision and Enclave Avenir trims—can elevate your driving experience. Balancing your needs and wants will guide you to a well-rounded choice.

Your driving habits play a major role in selecting the right drivetrain. For frequent long-distance commuters, Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) may be ideal due to its better fuel efficiency, helping to reduce the need for frequent stops.

If you live in an area with harsh weather, like heavy rain, ice or snow, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) provides better traction and stability under challenging conditions. Many Buick SUVs offer AWD options, giving you flexibility based on where you live and how you drive.

Setting a clear budget is essential when buying a car. Consider your payment options—cash, leasing or financing—and choose the one that best suits your financial situation.

Think about your monthly payment limits and how a down payment can lower those costs. Buick’s inventory includes payment filters to help you find vehicles that fit your budget.

Don’t forget to check current offers and discount programs, which can significantly reduce the cost of a new SUV. These incentives are worth factoring into your overall budget.

A vehicle is a long-term investment, so consider how it will adapt to your future plans. Growing families may need an SUV with extra seating and storage. And if you relocate to a region with a different climate, you may want to prioritize features like AWD for better handling. Thinking ahead helps to ensure your SUV will still meet your needs down the road.

A test drive is the best way to get a feel for a car’s comfort, performance and functionality. If you have children, bring car seats along to check fit and ease of installation.

To maximize your test drive, know what to evaluate. Our test drive guide offers tips on assessing everything from acceleration and handling to the infotainment system’s usability.

Now that you’ve considered your needs, explore Buick’s SUV lineup to find your perfect match:

• Seating: Up to 5 passengers
• Max Cargo Space: 42.0 cu. ft.
• Drivetrain: FWD EPA-est. MPG city/hwy: 28/32
• Starting MSRP: $24,700
• Features: 11-inch diagonal infotainment display, QuietTuning® with Active Noise Cancellation, available power liftgate

• Seating: Up to 5 passengers
• Max Cargo Space: 50.2 cu. ft
• Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
• EPA-est. MPG city/hwy: 29/31 (FWD)
• Starting MSRP: $26,895
• Features: 11-inch diagonal infotainment screen, 40/60 split-folding rear seat, optional hands-free power liftgate

• Seating: Up to 5 passengers
• Max Cargo Space: 52.7 cu. ft.
• Drivetrain: Standard AWD
• EPA-est. MPG city/hwy: 22/28
• Starting MSRP: $41,300
• Features: 30-inch diagonal infotainment screen, ambient lighting, available panoramic moonroof

• Seating: Largest option, up to 7 passengers
• Max Cargo Space: 97.5 cu. ft.
• Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
• EPA-est. MPG city/hwy: 20/25 (FWD)
• Starting MSRP: $46,400
• Features: 30-inch diagonal screen, multicolor ambient lighting, AutoSense power liftgate, optional Bose Premium 12-speaker audio system

Asking the right questions can help you choose an SUV that fits your needs, budget and lifestyle. With a lineup that offers a range of options with style, comfort and performance to elevate your driving experience, Buick has plenty of answers.

When you’re ready to look for your perfect match, see what’s available near you and schedule a test drive at a nearby dealer to explore the premium features and thoughtful design firsthand.