ESC (commonly referred to as stability control) is becoming compulsory in New Zealand - several years behind most other developed countries. The OECD puts the likelihood of serious injury in a single car accident is 46 per cent higher without ESC. That's a good stack of dead Kiwis that would still be among us had the powers that be applied the ruling a few years ago.
But with an influx of new cars under the $20K mark - particularly the new cars out of the Chinese market, and budget small cars, the Kiwi consumer is arguably in a better position to buy new.
• Read more New cars for under $20k
There's obviously a decision to make on whether a lower-spec new car is a better buy than highly featured used cars. This comes down to added value. To keep the sales pumping through, many dealers are throwing in extended warranties, roadside assistance and big service plans.
When it comes to more luxury-focused machines Kiwi-new cars are generally packed with goodies at the base end of their respective ranges. So-called "poverty pack" cars drag down residual value, and customers at this end of the market need to be protected, especially with lower-spec ex-demo imports coming from places like the UK. Of course, the end decision comes down to consumer preference - and with the new-car industry posting record sales year after a year, it seems to favour the newer models.
• Which way would you jump - new or used? Join the conversation at facebook.com/DrivenNZ and let us know below.
