Diwali is traditionally a busy buying season for cars — this year it’s amplified by GST 2.0 and stacked festive discounts. If you’re planning a Diwali purchase, don’t let the headline price cuts or limited-time
offers rush you into a poor deal. Know how GST savings translate to actual on-road prices, lock your final quote in writing, check financing and delivery timelines, and verify warranty and accessory packages before you pay. These steps will help you turn festive hype into a smarter purchase.
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Understand GST 2.0 And The Real Saving
GST 2.0 has lowered the tax burden on many cars, and manufacturers are passing savings to customers. As a matter of fact, this reduction only applies to the ex-showroom price. Make sure that the revised GST has been applied to your chosen variant by the dealer. Ask for a line-by-line detailed comparison of the old and new pricing. Most OEMs have adjusted their prices accordingly, but how much benefit eventually trickles down to the buyer will depend on the variant and any manufacturer/dealer incentives stacked on top.
Lock The On-Road Price, Not The Sticker
Never assume that the ex-showroom price is the final price you will pay. Always insist on a written on-road quotation with full disclosure of all costs; it will include state RTO charges, registration fees, insurance, handling fees, and any additional dealer add-ons. Be informed that handling charges at the showroom may increase during periods of high demand due to festive campaigns or because of delivery premiums. Having a signed invoice or dealer quote will immunise you against last-minute shocks that dealers may pull out of the hat.
Finance, Insurance And Exchange Offers — Read The Fine Print
Festive season financing deals are very easily available on the vehicle, which include special features at low EMI’s, no-cost EMI’s and cashback. It is highly important to evaluate total interest cost, processing fees, and foreclosure terms before coming to a conclusion. Precaution insurance freebies or extended warranties sound nice but do check their coverage limits and their claims process. While trading in old car, take several valuation quotes as usually the exchange bonus would be on negotiation heaped up with a particular model or colour.
Delivery Timeline, Stock, And Paperwork
Manufacturers usually warn about heightened demand and prolonged delivery periods during Diwali for specific trims. Emphasise on receiving a confirmed delivery date along with details of documents needed, and whether the dealer charges for registration delays. In case you need the car by a festival date, booking well in advance is imperative too. Delivery timelines must be asked for and kept in writing. Some OEMs have even initiated the process of encouraging consumers to book early so that festive deliveries are not delayed.
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Final Checks Before You Pay
Before full payment, inspect the car, including VIN, paint, and accessory fitment. Check the warranty start date and ascertain the free service schedule from that dealer. If the dealer gives you accessories or the Paint Protection Film, ask him to give you a separate invoice so that you can decide whether to take it or not. Make sure all your paperwork (quotes, invoice, insurance documents, and RTO receipts) is safe until after registration and delivery is done. It will serve as good practice of due diligence to ensure one does not fall into most of the common traps while trying to take advantage of Diwali discounts.