As automobiles and consumer preferences evolve, alternatives to the traditional dealership have become increasingly popular. One of those new business models is the car subscription, which aims for simplicity in contrast to typical finance agreements or leases. A new provider called Go just launched its service in Miami, Orlando, Philadelphia, and northern New Jersey, with more locations in the works.

What is a Go car subscription?

According to the company, Go is a “simpler and cheaper alternative to traditional car financing”. There’s no dealership and no down payment. You can sign up on the company’s website and order the vehicle in as little as a few minutes. Delivery is free within 50 miles of a Go location.

“Go is revolutionizing the typically frustrating car shopping experience. By removing the things that add cost with no value, and utilizing our proprietary system combining technology, data science, and fleet management to increase efficiency and reduce cost, we save customers a significant amount of time and most importantly – money,” said Michael Beauchamp, Go’s Founder and CEO.

What makes and models are available?

Selection varies by location, but in general, Go offers SUVs, sedans, pickups, and minivans across the pricing spectrum. Some popular models include the Toyota Corolla, RAV4, and 4Runner, but they also Nissan, Chevrolet, Mercedes, and BMW. Hybrid variants are available for some models, like the RAV4 and Prius.

The company claims savings of up to 25% per month with its car subscription service. One of the ways it accomplishes that is streamlining available offerings to only the most popular models. Go offers only brand new vehicles in a middle-tier trim level, with less than 10 miles on the odometer. Base models are not available and no options are allowed beyond what is listed on Go’s website. Only the most popular colors for each model will be offered.

What is required for a Go car subscription?

As of this writing, the requirements for Go’s car subscription service are a clean driving record and a credit score of 700 or above. The company does a soft credit check and driving record evaluation to verify eligibility. Insurance is extra and handled by a fleet policy through Go. According to the company, it includes liability, comprehensive, and collision protection.

It’s worth noting that Go only offers three-year terms, and there are additional fees if you switch vehicles before then. For that reason, it’s probably not a good option if you like to change vehicles on a yearly basis. Go offers mileage limits of 833, 1000, or 1250 miles per month, and unused miles do roll over to the next month. If you drive over your allotted miles, the company charges a fee of $0.25 per mile.

“Most of our customers are able to get a better car for the same monthly payment they used to make. In fact, we’re oftentimes cheaper than the monthly payment on a used car,” said Beauchamp. “We recognize that an offering like this seems too good to be true. But there’s no catch; just innovation and efficiency.”

Final thoughts

If you aren’t picky about color or trim level, Go may be an option worth considering. Just make sure to evaluate all the mileage options and policies for wear and tear, as you would for a lease.