Hi James,

The easiest way to get a car that’s most definitely not ‘old stock’ is to make sure you order something that’s unlikely to be in stock — a specific colour combination of exterior paint and interior trim, for instance, or pick an options pack that has to be fitted at the factory. You can, of course, also just insist with the dealer that it be a new-delivery car, and not one from out the back, but bear in mind that you’ll be able to get a better deal on a car from existing stock. Also, a factory-fresh car will take 6-8 weeks to be built and delivered.

As for ‘tricks’ — none really. Just do your research into which model and spec you want before you go in, and be firm about what you want. Do listen to the sales person — they do know what they’re talking about and may have good suggestions — but don’t be swayed if you’re sure of what you want. Also bear in mind that VW discounts the interest rate on its finance plans if you go for a higher spec model, so you may be able to get something with more toys for the same monthly repayments as a basic car.