A test drive is the one part of car shopping where the vehicle answers for itself. A spec sheet lists horsepower and cargo volume, but it can't tell you whether the seat fits your back after 40 minutes or whether the steering feels calm in heavy traffic. Here is how a new Chevrolet test drive works at Phillips Chevrolet in Frankfort, and how to get the most from every minute.
How Long Does a New Chevy Test Drive Take?
Plan on 20 to 30 minutes behind the wheel and about an hour at the dealership overall. That covers a quick walkaround, seat and mirror setup, the drive itself, and time for questions afterward. If you're comparing two models, allow extra time so each one gets the same attention.
What Should You Bring?
Bring a valid driver's license and your current insurance card if you have one. If you're considering a trade-in, bring the title or loan details so your appraisal can happen while you drive.
Start Before the Engine Does
Your test drive begins in the parked vehicle. Adjust the seat height, lumbar support, steering wheel, and mirrors, then check your sight lines over each shoulder. Blind spots vary a lot between a Trailblazer and a Tahoe. Pair your phone, find the climate controls without staring at them, and see how the touchscreen responds. Anything you'll use daily deserves 30 seconds now, not a surprise at a stoplight in Orland Park.
Build a Route That Mirrors Your Real Week
Chicagoland driving is never one kind of driving, so your route shouldn't be either. Start with stop-and-go traffic on a road like LaGrange Road through Tinley Park, then merge onto I-80 or I-57 to judge acceleration, passing power, and road noise at highway speed. Notice how the suspension handles expansion joints and patched pavement, because after a Chicago winter, every road is a ride-quality test. Finish with a tight parking lot to check turning radius, visibility, and the backup camera.
What Should You Pay Attention to Behind the Wheel?
Focus on five things: acceleration when merging, braking feel, steering response, cabin noise, and comfort over time. Turn the radio off for the first ten minutes so you can hear the powertrain and wind noise. If you're looking at an Equinox EV, pay attention to regenerative braking, which feels different from a gas vehicle. Truck shoppers should ask about towing features and think about how the Silverado will handle the trailer you actually pull around New Lenox or Joliet.
Can You Drive More Than One Trim?
Yes, and it's worth doing. The same model can feel very different depending on engine, drivetrain, and wheel size. Larger wheels look sharp but can ride firmer on rough pavement, and all-wheel drive adds confidence on snowy commutes near Homewood or Matteson. With Illinois' largest Chevrolet inventory, we can usually put you in several configurations back to back.
What Happens After the Test Drive?
You'll return to the dealership and talk through what you noticed. Nothing is required at that point. Ask about pricing, financing, and trade-in value while the drive is fresh, and request numbers in writing so you can compare at home. Our sales team is not paid on commission, so the conversation stays focused on finding the right fit.
Ready to Get Behind the Wheel?
The best way to know if a Chevrolet fits your life is to drive it on the roads you actually use. Browse our inventory online, pick the models you want to compare, and schedule a test drive at Phillips Chevrolet in Frankfort, or stop by our Lansing or Bradley locations. Ask about the Phillips Price Pledge while you're there. Your keys are waiting.
When you visit Phillips Chevrolet, with locations in Frankfort, Lansing, and Bradley, you’re visiting the best in the business. Family-owned and operated for over 50 years, we don't just sell cars; we build relationships. Our commitment to excellence has earned us the title of Cars.com 'Chevrolet Dealer of the Year, ' ranking #1 in the United States among over 3,000 Chevy dealerships, and recognition as the #1 Selling Chevy Dealer in Illinois for 20 years in a row. We are also a JD Power 'Dealer of Excellence' and proudly maintain an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau. With Illinois’ largest Chevrolet inventory and a team dedicated to award-winning service, we’re ready to help you find your next dream car.
FAQ: What to Expect When You Test Drive a New Chevrolet
Q: Do I need an appointment to test drive a new Chevrolet?
A: Walk-ins are welcome, but scheduling ahead means the exact model and trim you want will be clean, fueled, and waiting for you.
Q: Can I test drive a Chevrolet if I'm not ready to buy today?
A: Absolutely. A test drive is a research step, not a commitment, and you're free to go home and think it over.
Q: Can my family come along?
A: Yes. Bring your passengers, especially when comparing SUVs like the Traverse, so everyone can check rear-seat space, and bring your car seat to test the fit.
Q: Does a test drive affect my credit?
A: A test drive alone doesn't require a credit application, so it does not affect your credit.