Let’s be honest, buying a car in WA right now can feel like a bit of a balancing act. With everyday costs rising (hello, fuel prices), many Perth drivers are looking for smarter ways to get behind the wheel of a reliable, modern vehicle, without tipping over their budget.
Enter the demo car. If you’ve never considered buying a demo vehicle before, now’s the time. They’re one of the most value-packed options on the market, especially when it comes to new Subarus. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a small family on a tight budget, or simply a savvy shopper looking to maximise every dollar, a demo vehicle could tick every box.
So, what exactly is a demo car, and how do you buy one with confidence? Let’s break it down.
What is a demo car, exactly?
A demo car (short for “demonstrator”) is a vehicle used by a dealership for short-term purposes, usually for test drives, display, or staff use. You might also hear them called dealer demonstrator vehicles. These cars haven’t had a private owner, but they’ve been registered and lightly driven, meaning they often have a few thousand kilometres on the clock.
Here’s what typically makes a car a demo:
- It’s often a current or near-current model, sometimes even a brand-new model that’s been used for display
- Has low mileage, usually under 5,000 to 10,000 km
- Still covered by Subaru’s new car warranty
- Maintained by the dealer’s service team from day one
There can be different types of demo cars; some are purely showroom display vehicles, others are short-term test drive cars, and a few may have been used as staff vehicles. While most have minimal use, always check for signs of wear and tear before you buy.
Because they’re not brand-new cars, demo cars are sold at a competitive price compared to the full drive-away price, without the unknowns that can come with a used car. You’re getting a near-new vehicle, often packed with premium features, for a more affordable price.
Why buying a demo Subaru makes sense
There are plenty of demo cars out there, but not all make equal sense. Subaru demo vehicles are especially worth a look for WA buyers, and here’s why:
1. You still get advanced safety tech
Buying a demo doesn’t mean you miss out on features. Most demo Subarus come with the latest safety gear, like Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist, rear vehicle detection, and reverse automatic braking, making them a top choice for cautious first-time buyers or young families.
2. Better value than used, more affordable than new
With Subaru’s legendary reliability and long lifespan, a demo car gives you that new-car feeling without the new-car price tag. Plus, unlike used vehicles, you know exactly how the car’s been driven and cared for.
3. Perfect for WA roads
Every Subaru demo comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a Boxer engine, built for everything from beach trips to bush tracks. If you live regionally or regularly head off-road, you’re not compromising on performance.
4. Still covered under warranty
Most Subaru demos are under a few months old and come with the remainder of the 5-year/unlimited km warranty, sometimes with extras like roadside assistance or capped-price servicing included. Make sure you confirm the full warranty coverage before you commit.
How to buy a demo car (without the stress)
Ready to purchase a demo car but not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for finding the right Subaru demo and driving away with peace of mind.
Step 1: Set your budget
Know how much you’re comfortable spending, and be sure to factor in on-road costs, registration, and insurance. Want help getting started? Perth City Subaru’s Subaru Finance options offer flexible, competitive packages tailored to WA drivers.
Step 2: Start browsing demo stock
Check out the current range of Subaru demo vehicles available at our dealership. Whether you’re after a compact Crosstrek, spacious Outback, or sporty WRX, you’ll find a variety of trims and colours, many with premium upgrades.
Step 3: Compare features and models
Think about your lifestyle. If you’re city-based and value fuel efficiency, a demo Impreza or Crosstrek might be ideal. Heading out bush or hauling gear? Consider an Outback or Forester with higher clearance and off-road tuning.
Step 4: Book a test drive
This one’s essential. Even with low kilometres, you’ll want to get a feel for the drive, visibility, infotainment, and tech. Our team can help you book in at a time that suits you, no pressure, just hands-on experience.
Step 5: Ask for history and inspection
Request a copy of the service log, km record, and full vehicle inspection. At Perth City Subaru, all our demo cars go through detailed checks before going up for sale.
Step 6: Check offers and finalise the deal
Look out for demo-specific promotions, bonuses, or trade-in deals. We regularly update our Subaru offers page with limited-time deals, so you might score extras like free servicing or accessory packs.
Essential questions to ask before signing
Don’t be shy, these questions help you get the full picture before buying:
- Is this car the current model year or a previous one?
- How many people have driven this vehicle?
- Is the full new car warranty still in place?
- What’s included in the drive-away price?
- Can I get Subaru finance or insurance as part of the package?
At a trusted dealership, you’ll get straight answers. And at Perth City Subaru, we’re committed to making sure you drive away with zero surprises.
Why buy your demo Subaru from Perth City Subaru?
When it comes to demo cars, the dealership you buy from can make all the difference. A good dealer will give you more than just a competitive price, they’ll make sure you know exactly what you’re getting, from the first test drive to the final signature.
Here are a few things worth looking for:
- Clear vehicle history: You should be able to see service records, kilometre logs, and any maintenance that’s been carried out.
- Thorough inspections: Every demo should be checked over by factory-trained technicians to ensure it’s in top shape.
- Warranty confidence: The balance of the manufacturer’s warranty should be included, along with any applicable roadside assistance.
- Servicing perks: Some dealers offer capped-price servicing or loyalty benefits that can save you money over time.
If you find a dealer who ticks all of these boxes, you’re in a great position to get a demo car that’s both high value and high quality.
A demo car is smart buying, done right
If you’re looking for a way to stretch your budget further without sacrificing safety, reliability, or that new car feel, a Subaru demo is worth a serious look. With low kms, top tech, and the performance WA drivers love, demo vehicles offer incredible value, especially when backed by a trusted local team.
At Perth City Subaru, we make it easy to get started. You can browse our current selection of Subaru demo vehicles available in Perth, take one for a spin by booking a test drive at a time that suits you, or speak with our team about Subaru Finance options that work with your budget and preferred interest rates. Whether you’re upgrading your daily drive or buying your first car, we’re here to help you feel confident every step of the way.