Price

The mighty dollar reigns supreme in most people's choice of cars. You should not only consider the cost of the actual car, but also things like the cost of insurance and maintenance, which will come into play as well. Remember to think about what kind of payments that you can afford without being too strapped for cash, if you aren't paying cash for your car.

Fuel Economy

As gas prices continue to rise, the amount you will have to shell out at the pump is getting to be a bigger and bigger factor in car choice. Gone are the days where you could afford to get 12 miles to the gallon and not feel it in your wallet. Especially for workers that commute long distances, fuel economy can be an important component of your new car choice.

Safety

We all expect a certain degree of safety when we drive in our cars, but not all cars are created equal in this category. Does your car have side airbags? Anti-lock breaks? Traction control? Like your mom always said, "You can replace cars, but you can't replace people!"

Reliability

For some people it doesn't matter how powerful, stylish, or comfortable your car is if it breaks down on the side of the road once a week! Choosing a car that is well made enough so that there isn't a constant worry about breakdowns or frequent repairs, is a must for most people. 

Statement

Comfort, styling, horsepower and image. What does your car say about you? For many people, owning a certain car is all about making a statement that speaks to who they are and where they are going. 

In the end, what you look for in purchasing a new car depends on what you want and need. Make sure to do plenty of research, which is pretty easy to do thanks to the Internet, and remember that there is no perfect car, just a car that is perfect for you.