Expert advice | The automobile in questions

Our contributor answers readers’ questions



We wait a little longer

We are retired and own a 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum with 83,000 km on the clock. We do around 6000 km per year. Is it a good idea to shop for an electric vehicle this year given the subsidies offered? Or should we keep our vehicle for a few more years?

Chantal R.

Considering your annual mileage and the costs associated with the acquisition of an electric vehicle, you should keep your current vehicle, as long as it gives you satisfaction.

Seize the opportunity

PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA CANADA

2020 Toyota Highlander

I’m thinking of replacing my 2013 Toyota Highlander soon which has 250,000 km. He is still doing very well, but there would be some maintenance to do to keep him. I am looking for a 2022 or 2023 used vehicle. I am interested in the Honda Pilot, but on the used vehicle market. The Highlander would of course be a good option, but it is more expensive than other models. I’m not sure it’s worth it. I would be interested in the Volkswagen Atlas and the Nissan Pathfinder, but I also find the Mazda CX-90 very interesting, even if it is more recent. What would be the best choice? Any other suggestions?

Fred M.

Honda and Toyota should be at the top of your searches. The Atlas and Pathfinder have several blemishes on their reliability record. The CX-90, for its part, is indeed very young, but its reliability has so far proven to be superior to that of the two aforementioned models. You might also consider the Hyundai Palisade.

Long and short

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MAZDA

2024 Mazda CX-90

I began my search for an SUV with the goal of taking long-distance trips (we are a family of four) with good storage space. I would really like to have the flexibility of a plug-in hybrid to reduce impact and save on short daily trips under 40 km, so the Mazda CX-90 seems like a good choice for my budget. But reading the available evaluations seems to tell me the opposite with the negative comments on the transmission and gasoline/electric motors assembly. I plan to rent for three or four years to give myself the flexibility to go all-electric later. I’m looking at what’s quickly available this fall, but I might wait to see what’s new next spring.

Sylvain L.

The CX-90 gives you a third row of seats, but do you really need one? Couldn’t the CX-70 do the trick too? That said, the hybrid powertrain does indeed raise some criticism. There is a lack of harmony between the two energy sources (petrol and electric) and the box lacks smoothness. In addition, the electric range is, like general consumption, disappointing. Mazda is preparing the release of a hybrid CX-50, but it will not be plug-in. Another vehicle to consider: the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, whose reliability is proven.

Winter already

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NOKIAN

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 EV winter tire

I just replaced my 2012 Subaru Impreza with a 2024 Crosstrek Onyx. On this car there are 18 inch all season tires (mounted on alloy wheels). I need to buy winter tires and need your advice. Should I buy 18″ or 17″ tires (with steel rims)? Some people tell me that I can fit 17″ tires on my car. I want to mount the new winter tires on steel wheels to prevent early wear. Since I plan to keep my car as long as my Impreza, I want the best quality and performance. Depending on availability, I look for the Nokian, Bridgestone (WS90) or Michelin brands. However, any other recommended brand will catch my attention.

Helene G.

Excellent idea to treat yourself to steel rims, but also to purchase tire pressure sensors. 17″ tires will save you a little money. They will also give you slightly increased comfort and potentially better resistance in the event of impacts (potholes, for example) due to their higher profile. As for brands, you could consider, depending on your criteria, the Nokian because of its homogeneity (comfort and performance).


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