DALLAS — Announcing that consumers submitted more than 1 million online applications to RoadLoans.com last year, Santander Consumer USA launched an updated version of the website this week.

The company explained this next-generation version contains an abundance of online tools geared to help consumers who have less-than-perfect credit make an informed decision when they purchase or refinance a vehicle.

In addition to prominently displaying RoadLoans.com's two key products — auto finance and auto refinance — the site now features educational tools designed to help consumers better understand the buying process.

A customer can review articles on topics ranging from credit reports to properly valuing a trade vehicle. Shoppers also can "build" a vehicle virtually and browse a library of review videos for a variety of makes and models.

Officials pointed out that additional tools include a rate and monthly payment estimator, the RoadLoans blog and a mobile application that allows a user to apply for financing from a smartphone.

They went on to explain how the entire RoadLoans process is intended to work.

Once an application is submitted from a computer or mobile device, RoadLoans.com can provide a loan decision within seconds immediately via its website portal.

If the consumer is interested in buying a vehicle, they are then matched with a RoadLoans preferred dealer located near the consumer's home address.

RoadLoans.com also offers an auto refinance product, including one that has a cash-back option.

"Today's car shopper is more savvy and wants data and current information before they look for their vehicle," stated Lana Johnson, vice president of loan originations for Santander Consumer USA.

"The resources on the new RoadLoans.com help consumers shop for a car with confidence, while also giving them the option of securing their financing online from RoadLoans before they visit a dealership," Johnson continued.