Canberra Toyota in Belconnen, one of Belconnen’s most recommended car dealerships. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
If you call Belconnen home and are looking for a new drive you have come to the right place. Like many Canberrans, you have no doubt chosen automobiles as your preferred mode of transport. And who could blame you? Today’s cars are sheer driving delights, combining the latest technological innovations with mechanical mastery.
Indeed, most new cars have more features and functions than you could poke a stick at. From 360-degree cameras to lane-assist, voice controls, and more they make driving on Belconnen’s streets smoother – and safer.
So, when the time comes to upgrade, downsize, or completely switch your wheels you are presented with a couple of options. You could aim to buy privately, directly from existing owners. Alternatively, auto auctions offer ex-government and fleet cars.
Then there are car dealerships. Offering both new and pre-owned vehicles, dealerships provide exceptional choice, a seamless sale, and added peace of mind.
If scouring the classifieds and registering for auctions feels like a bit much, dealerships may be the option for you. And, if a new car is more your thing, then they are a sure bet. So where to find the best car dealerships in Belconnen? Glad you asked, read on below.
What makes a great a car dealership?
Great car dealerships are automotive companions, that supply and service the wheels on which we drive. They are expert brand ambassadors who know their products inside out, putting you in the driver seat at ease. Here are some features to help you evaluate your local dealer:
- Reputable & recommended. When it comes to cars; we have all heard tales of the proverbial lemon. Finding a reputable and recommended car dealership is a great way to mitigate this risk, ensuring only quality cars are on offer. Dealerships must be trustworthy, have built a reputation worth hearing about. Often, one of the best ways find a reputable car dealership is to choose one that comes recommended. A personal or professional recommendation offers valuable peace of mind that they have been trusted by a family or friend.
- Available inventory. There is nothing worse than knowing what you want, only to discover it comes with a six-month waiting period attached. And where there is merit in the adage ‘good things come to those who wait’; no one wants to wait forever. The best car dealerships know this well, stocking showrooms with popular models and favoured options. Many pre-emptively order preferred colours and options to ensure the most desirable cars remain available. And if they don’t have your preferred choice in stock, they will work super hard to secure it.
- Helpful finance team. Indeed, every buyer wants to feel as though they have secured a good deal. Whether through a pricing offer, a trade in, or payment terms, the best car dealerships make this happen. Many provide low-rate financing and other alternatives like novated leases. The best finance teams will also be able to assist with organising insurance for your new wheels, saving you time and effort. And should you require a trade in, they will shop your vehicle around to secure the best price possible. Whether you are a private or business buyer, their helpful finance teams will ensure you drive away swiftly.
- Warranties. When it comes to buying a car often the most attractive sales come with added peace of mind for buyers. While some used cars may still be under manufacturer warranty, others will not. So, shop around for the best warranty and service package you can find. Review all inclusions, understand what is in and out, and be comfortable with the fine print.
- Service after the sale. The best car dealerships believe that great service extends well beyond the sale. Therefore, look for dealerships with a focus on after sales services. This can translate to things like free loan cars, pick-up and drop-off, and complimentary car washing during servicing. It can also mean valuable on-road assistance for help in an emergency.
The best car dealerships in Belconnen
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Canberra Toyota Belconnen
Since their establishment in 1988; Canberra Toyota Belconnen have become as synonymous as the local automotive landscape itself. With experienced staff and professional motoring advice, the team at Canberra Toyota Belconnen assist clients of every taste and budget with securing their next car.
Stocking an impressive range of new, demonstrator, and pre-owned vehicles, Canberra Toyota Belconnen is also a specialised Toyota dealer. Featuring models like the best-selling Corolla, through to SUV’s, 4WD’s, Hybrids, and commercial options, the range caters well to private and business buyers alike.
Carley Ricketts-Jones had this to share on Google, “Outstanding service and excellent customer service. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
National Capital Nissan
Conveniently located in Canberra’s norther suburbs, National Capital Nissan have been the number one choice for Nissan buyers for over thirty years. As a multi award-winning dealership their demonstrable service excellence is held in high regard across both sales and service arms.
Their modern showroom features the latest Nissan models from the popular X-Trail, Pathfinders, and Qashqai, through to the Juke and Navara. For eco conscious buyers, the dealership is also home to the all-electric Nissan Leaf.
Chelsea Mol had this to say on Google, “Best team in town. Everyone is always available for service and they are ready to help with a smile. Will recommend everyone to go and visit National Capital Nissan.”
National Capital Hyundai
As a family run business, National Capital Hyundai have been the specialised Hyundai dealer of choice for over three decades.
Conveniently located in the norther suburb of Belconnen, they stock an extensive range of Hyundai passenger and commercial vehicles, both new and used. Boasting the ever-popular i30 SUV right through to the Tucson, their considered range has something for everyone.
Offering convenient financing and after-sales servicing all under the one roof, National Capital Hyundai make for an excellent choice.
James Johnston shared his experience with the team on Google, “The guys at National Capital Hyundai Belconnen were fantastic on our recent Hyundai purchase…. Highly Recommended.”
Gerald Slaven Ford
As a multi award-winning family-run dealership, Gerald Slaven Ford have been selling and servicing new and used vehicles for over thirty years.
Their state-of-the art Belconnen showroom features all the very latest Ford vehicles. Whether your needs are for passenger or commercial, the knowledgeable and experienced team are dedicated to finding your next vehicle.
With a range of finance options and warranties they make owning a car a breeze. Whether buying, selling, or leasing, be sure to visit the team at Gerald Slaven Ford Belconnen.
Sarah Connor shared her experience with the team on Google, “We recently purchased a vehicle from the guys at Gerald Slaven in Belconnen and right from the get go it was probably the best customer service I have personally ever experienced.”
Belconnen Mazda
As an authorised Mazda dealer since 1983, Belconnen Mazda have been selling and maintaining Mazda vehicles a cross Canberra’s northern suburbs. With a state-of-the-art showroom located in central Belconnen, they have options to suit all manner of buyer from those upgrading, to downsizing, and first-time buyers.
Belconnen Mazda stocks an extensive range of master quality vehicles for both personal and commercial purposes from the award winning Mazda2 to the ever-popular Mazda3, end Mazda CX9 you can find it all here.
Deborah Dowse shared her experience on Google, “I bought my first brand new car from Belconnen Mazda last week. I’m beyond over the moon…. The customer service from Tony and everyone at Belconnen Mazda was amazing. Would recommend 100%.”
Should you wish to venture out of Belconnen, be sure to check out this article on the best car dealerships in the region. If you are on the hunt for a used car, check out our ultimate guide to buying a used car in Canberra.
For car maintenance services check out our articles on the best service centres, the best mechanics and the best mobile car battery repair services in Canberra. And, to maintain that showroom finish check out our articles on the best car washes and the best car detailers Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with car dealerships in Belconnen
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the car dealerships listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to buy a car?
When it comes to bagging a deal on a car purchase in Canberra, good timing can make the world of difference. As with most retailers, car dealerships have quotas for monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales goals. This opens the gate to several opportunities throughout the year for a better deal. The first two major periods are end of financial year (June) and end of calendar year (December); where dealerships are increasingly motivated to move stock for new models. The same applies for plate-clearance sales. End of month or end of quarter can also be promising should the dealer need to reach sales quotas. Finally, model-run out sales can allow you to secure a deal on stock that will be replaced by newer models.
What are on-road costs?
On-road costs are typically additional charges that come with purchasing a car. These can include things like stamp or motor vehicle duty, registration, compulsory third party insurance, and dealer delivery charges. These are generally itemised and included on a new car contract from the dealership. Note, this differs from running costs which include automotive insurance, fuel, and maintenance charges. For an indication of the on-road costs associated with your car purchase consult your dealer.
What is included in a dealer delivery fee?
A dealer deliver fee is a charge set by dealerships to ensure each car is ready to be driven away post sale. This can include things like detailed mechanical checks, detailing, and affixing the number plate, along with covering administrative costs of lodging registration paperwork. Of all on-road costs the dealer delivery fee is usually the only one that can be negotiated on, so consult your dealer for a cost breakdown and go from there.
How is motor vehicle duty calculated?
Motor vehicle duty is a tax payable upon the registration of a motor vehicle. This sum is calculated by each state government, including the ACT. In simple terms, the duty is determined the value of the vehicle. This value also includes the goods and services tax (GST) and luxury car tax (LCT) where applicable. So, the more costly the vehicle, the higher the tax. Similarly, if options are added such as larger wheels or suspension, buyers will also generally pay more. For further information visit https://www.revenue.act.gov.au/duties/motor-vehicle-duty.
What is the vehicle emission reduction scheme?
The vehicle emission reduction scheme is an environmental initiative of the ACT government that aims to reduce carbon emitted by the transport sector. It provides financial incentive for buyers of vehicles with lower operating emissions. Currently the scheme applies to new cars, motorcycles, utes, and light commercial vehicles. For more information visit http://www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au/.
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