The automobile in question | The Press

Our collaborator answers questions from readers

Eric LeFrancois
special cooperation

Concentrated luxury

I currently own a 2020 Lincoln MKZ. I would like to replace it with a smaller vehicle that would offer me the same comfort and the same advanced technologies (BLIS, dual-zone heating and air conditioning, heated seats and steering wheel, sensor obstacles, etc.). Where do you think I should go?

Michael G.

Many of the sought-after features are found on a large number of models. Among the models that may interest you are the Volvo XC40, the Buick Encore GX and the Audi Q3.

Grocery list

We are a couple traveling approximately 13,000 km/year who are looking for a car with the following characteristics: reliable, all-wheel drive, SUV format, ground clearance similar to that of a Crosstrek, comfortable and luxurious. The ideal motorization would be plug-in hybrid or electric since my employer doubles the subsidies obtained from the governments. We tried the Ioniq 5, but were worried there was no rear wiper. The Kia EV6 looks too “young” for us. The iD.4 is also an interesting choice, as is the RAV4 Prime. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for us?

guy d.

Your two choices (RAV4 Prime and ID.4) represent very interesting options. To this list, you should add the Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X duo (see our test bench and “The competition”), as well as the future Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, whose electric range, it is whispered, could reach 80km.

Electric for active retirees

We are in the process of purchasing a 100% electric vehicle. We have a 2016 Fit EX-L Navi in ​​excellent condition. The resale value of used cars, currently on the rise, encourages us to change. We hesitate between the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6. We are retired, but active. Depending on the season, we travel to the different regions of Quebec for bike rides or ski outings. Which one stands out for reliability, range and handling, in your opinion?

Dennis P.

Used value is currently on the rise due to the low supply of new vehicles. Is your name on a list for the purchase of one of the two vehicles mentioned? Otherwise, good luck. Yes, you will easily sell your current vehicle, but you will then have to use your bicycle. To answer your question, the two vehicles have several things in common. Of the two, we prefer the EV6 due to its more dynamic ride, more intuitive controls, and tailgate profile that (partly) excuses the lack of a rear wiper.

An old lady

We have a 2009 Volvo XC70 that we love, but which since the end of December 2021 has had an intermittent electrical problem that remains undetectable after multiple trips and checks at the garage. The engine runs, the windscreen wipers work and the electric seats move forward and backward, but the heating, electric windows, radio, turn signals and passenger door lock do not work. Everything has been checked a thousand times by our Volvo specialist garage for 30 years. One day, everything works, the next day, another power failure! The car is always outside in very cold weather or in heavy rain, because we don’t have a garage. She is an old lady of almost 12 years. Would it have become more fragile to bad weather? Could the cold or the humidity be responsible?

Jocelyne H.

The pet peeve of many technicians. Electrical malfunctions are extremely difficult to locate and, yes, weather conditions are a big part of the culprit, as is the age of your vehicle. The time has probably come to say goodbye to him.