amit1986

Been reading these threads actively, whilst patiently waiting to book a 2013 S4 when some information is released. It appears some members have been able to take the S4 for a 24-hour test drive and was wondering how they were able to do so? Do all dealers allow this? Aren't there any insurance concerns for the dealer? What sort of paperwork has to be signed? Did you have to convince the dealer or was it a simple "ask and you shall receive" scenario?

Thanks!

amit1986

I must also add that I did take a 2011 S4 for a test drive (dealer did not have a 2012 MY available for a test drive) but it lasted for only 10 minutes and I don't feel as if I got a good feel for it. Wasn't really comfortable with my SA sitting next to me, I suppose.

primetime

Wife was buying an A4 and we had some time to kill so I was checking out the owners S4 that he had just gotten in... He was raving about the car and I said "well I'll have to drive one sometime"... he said just take mine and bring it back tommorow and don't worry about the gas... Ordered one about a week later, would have been sooner but couldn't decide on all the options and such... keep in mind we had purchased a few cars there prior... I didn't sign anything...

Steve724

Once I was serious about going with an S4 I talked to the dealer I had done a test drive with about a 24 hour test drive. They just wanted to know if I was "serious" about purchasing an S4. They filled up the tank and basically just handed me the keys. My wife and I went out that night and the next day I found some nice local roads to test it out on. No charge and free gas, of course that sealed the deal and I ordered one the next week. They figure once you take it home your hooked. I actually felt kind of bad because I bought from a different dealer because of the $2000 price premium that dealer was charging.

doobs41378

Before we bought my wife's Q5 they simply said take it home for the weekend and see how you like it. I stated I lived over an hour away and would be going into the city that evening. They said that's why we have insurance. I did not ask they just offered. A very nice gensture I thought.

DrGP

24 hr test drive is an old time dealers ploy to get YOU to buy a car. They feel in that amount of time, you will fall in love with the car and have to have it. in the caseof the S4, they would be right!

amit1986

Doesn't seem like this is common in Canada. Two dealers I have asked have not replied back to a 24-hour test drive request.

NHman

The salesperson offered it to me knowing that I was interested in a MY13. He (and by extension the general manager) said "enjoy it for the next 24-36 hrs and don't worry about the gas". This was perfect as I was able to get a true sense based on my average day driving.

This was also offered (and accepted) on our last vehicle, being a Q7. Except the length of time was over a weekend. The vehicle was one of their demos. The previous referenced S4 was brand new with 10 or so miles on the odometer.

Did this extended test drive lock in my selection to the S4, yes. Did it also lock in which dealer I would be working with, yes. This was a win for all.