CAR SHOPPING without a side-order of sexism

When it comes to buying a new motor, GH readers say they find dealerships intimidating. But, as GINNY BUCKLEY explains, there’s a new, more female-friendly way of doing things

Women are buying 20% more cars than a decade ago and influence 80% of new domestic car sales, yet the auto business is still geared towards men. That’s why we were delighted to hear about the partnership between Ford and Next, who’ve teamed up with Simon Dixon – the pioneer behind the concept of selling cars in shopping centres. Starting with Manchester’s Arndale Shopping Centre, Next will now be selling cars alongside clothes in a number of branches around the UK. While these ‘auto-boutiques’ will only have a small number of cars in-store, there will be product experts with ipads (who crucially don’t earn commission) on hand for advice, part-exchange and finance options, while test-drives (from a nearby multi-storey car park) are a relaxing experience with no salesperson next to you.

And Ford isn’t alone. Hyundai opened a store in Kent’s Bluewater Shopping Centre. You can also shop for a Jaguar or Land Rover at Westfield Stratford in London. The approach is clearly a winner with women: in the four years it’s been open, Hyundai says 60% of sales in the Bluewater store have been to women, compared to 37% in traditional dealerships. Hyundai has also launched an Amazon-style ‘click-to-buy’ service, allowing you to buy any of its models online, compare prices and even opt for home delivery. Buyacar have a similar service, where you can choose a new or used car from the comfort of your home, safe in the knowledge that it comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee.