Posted at 11:45 a.m.
Get an idea
I would like your opinion on the 2022 Ford Escape SE. Is it a good buy, despite the recall and the comparison with the 2022 Nissan Rogue?
Jocelyne M.
The Escape is a very good choice, but compared to the Rogue, it struggles to hide its age. Ford will be updating (mainly cosmetic) this vehicle in the fall. This will be the last evolution of this model before a complete overhaul scheduled for 2025. Compared to the Escape, the Rogue is more modern, more valuable and more spacious (especially the trunk). In return, the Escape offers a range of engines (including hybrids) and more varied versions. Note that the engines offered on the Rogue (1.5 L and 2.5 L) are more fuel-efficient at the pump than Ford’s 100% gasoline engines.
Europa v. America
PHOTO MANU FERNANDEZ, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles have gray areas.
Why is there a difference between European and North American data on the range of a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle? Where does this difference come from?
Peter L.
There is an ocean between the methodologies of the Old Continent and the New World regarding vehicle consumption. The European and American authorities carry out different tests. In Europe, for example, a new, more realistic standard called WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) was introduced a few years ago. This replaces the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) procedure previously used, but remains less realistic than the results compiled by the EPA. There are a host of reasons to explain the discrepancy between the two procedures. Most notable, in the case of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, is the greater emphasis placed by Europeans on urban and suburban driving compared to Americans.
A lemon ?
PHOTO PROVIDED BY NISSAN
Nissan Sentras
I have a 2021 Nissan Sentra that has 6456 km on the clock. The dealer has to change the steering column. Do I have a lemon?
Andrew S.
There’s no reason to call your vehicle a lemon at this point. This issue is being recalled and affects a number (approximately 140,000 units) of 2020 and 2021 Sentra models. The cause: poor machining of the steering ball joints. These will be replaced if necessary and under warranty by the dealer after inspection.
A decision to make
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAL MOTORS
2019 Camaro RS
I own a 2019 Camaro RS convertible with the V6 engine. It is only used during the summer. I will probably have to change the tires (245/40 R20) at the end of the season. The tires on the car are Run Flat. Do I have to submit Run Flats as a replacement?
Sylvain R.
It is not an obligation, but you will have to change all the tires to preserve the general balance of your vehicle. You won’t be able to keep run-flat tires on the front and opt for “conventional” tires on the rear, or vice versa. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations (dimensions, speed index, pressure, etc.). Also, you may need to replace (reprogram, that’s for sure) the tire pressure sensors (TPMS). Finally, you should be aware that vehicles with run-flat tires do not have a spare tire or jack.