If you are purchasing a luxury car for the first time, you might not know exactly which features and equipment you want on your vehicle. You may also be concerned with getting the best price for your money. Use the following guide to help you select the right luxury car for your needs, budget, and comfort level.

Trim Packages

You may find that some luxury vehicles come with lots of different upgrade options, such as heated seats or remote-operated cargo doors. However, adding these options a la carte can mean the price of your vehicle will increase dramatically. Instead of choosing individual option upgrades, compare the trim packages for each type of luxury car you are interested in. In some cases, you may find that you can find a trim package that offers nearly everything you want without having to add specific features to your purchase. Many car manufacturers offer base, mid-level, and high-end trim packages, and some offer a few other trim options in between. You can compare trim levels online before you head to your local luxury car dealership.

Fuel Economy

Today's luxury cars come in a variety of makes and models designed to deliver better fuel economy. Not only is a fuel-efficient car good for the environment, but it can also be good for your wallet. With more miles per gallon, you can effectively lower the cost of ownership for your luxury car. Look for models with hybrid or diesel engines so you can save money at the pump and go longer in between stops at the gas station. There are a select few luxury car makers that offer completely electric models as well.

Safety Features

Luxury cars do offer a lot in the way of safety features. In fact, you may find some safety features that cost extra on average vehicles might be included in the base models of the luxury cars you are interested in. Some safety features to look for in a luxury car might include:

• Blind spot detection
• Lane departure warnings
• Forward collision prevention
• Assisted parking

If you are concerned about the safety of your family on the road, make these safety features must-haves on your shopping checklist. You may also want to talk to your insurance agent, as you may find that even though luxury cars can be more expensive to insure, added safety features can sometimes help you to get discounts on your insurance premiums.

A luxury car should give you comfort and convenience, but you should make sure its features and cost meet your needs. Make a list of features that are important to you and have a budget in mind when you go shopping for your first luxury car.