I need a new car but I don’t know what I want

With so much choice in different shapes, sizes, fuel types and even colours, it can be overwhelming to start finding your perfect new car. If you know exactly the make and the model, then you're halfway there and can continue on your adventure here.

For everyone else who isn't quite sure whether to go hatchback or small SUV, Hyundai or Honda, or white pearl or green metallic paint, we've got you covered. We've put together a guide to help make your decision easier.

Sometimes window shopping is the perfect way to stumble across something new and appealing to you. While practicality, price and useability are all important ingredients when finding the perfect car, the design, type, brand and even smell are also just as important. Browse our Car Inspiration Guide to get the thought process started. It features lists of cars that are perfect for lifestyles, hobbies and unique features including:

Cars for surfers and keen beach goers
Cars for dog lovers
Affordable new cars that’ll make you stand out at school drop-off and pick-up
Budget Ferrari wannabes you can buy
Cars that will massage your back

The choice of whether to purchase something brand-spanking new or with a few kms already on the clock is a common discussion Aussies have every day. There are pros and cons in choosing to buy something new or used from price, maintenance, choice and availability. Here are some handy articles which explain this in more detail:

Should I buy a new car or a used car?
Should you buy a demo?
Top 10 reasons to buy from a dealer
Top tips for buying a used car

In Australia today, there has never been more choice of makes, models and trim variants on offer. While some segments such as large sedans (Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon) have shrunk, others such as Mid-Size SUVs and Utes have grown rapidly. To help pinpoint the best of the best in each key category, carsales has conducted a series of tests to evaluate the best new and used cars in the market today. You can find out more about our Best Cars, Best Used Cars and Car of the Year below:

Colour plays an important role in car selection. It can affect everything from the way you feel, other drivers' ability to see you on the road to even the resale value. Above all else, it is an external reflection of who you are. Here are some articles to help you pick that magic colour:

So you've found the type, size, make and model but now you're at the stage of comparing trim levels and all the different types of technology and features available. First of all, you should write a list of what features you personally couldn't live without, then a list of nice to haves. If you're upgrading from a very old car and all of the technology of today is overwhelming, here are some articles to help you decipher what you should look for:

Five tech features all cars should have
Five things your car must have

You've narrowed your search, saved cars, sent an enquiry or two and have teed up some car inspections. Now for the fun part, checking the vehicle out in real life and potentially purchasing it. Here are some handy tips:

So you need to sell your car to make room for the new one? Well, you've come to the right place! carsales has several easy ways to help you sell your car.

List it on carsales

When you list your car for sale on carsales, it is on our site until it’s sold. The ad price is a one time, upfront payment with no ongoing costs. We don’t take a commission on the sale price either, like some online classified sites. Find out more about selling on carsales here.

Once you've listed your car, now you're ready to sell. Here are some helpful articles to assist on the journey:

What is my used car worth?

Sell it using carsales Instant Offer

carsales Instant Offer lets you sell your car directly to a trusted wholesale partner with price offers usually higher than the typical trade-in valuation from a licensed dealer. carsales Instant Offer is limited to cars under 12 years old, having travelled less than 180,000km. Other conditions apply too, but those are spelled out in the FAQ for Instant Offer. Find out how carsales Instant Offer can sell your car quicker here.

Although you traditionally receive a higher price for your car from selling privately, taking your old car to the dealer where you are purchasing your new car is an easy and accessible option. Here are some helpful articles which explain the process and the situation in more detail:

How do you get the most out of trading in your car?
What type of car can I trade in?
When should you trade in your car?

Whether you’re buying new or used, financing the purchase is an option that’s easier to access than you think. The carsales Finance portal outlines everything you auto know about finance and all the different options which may be available to you.