The automobile in question | The Press

Our collaborator answers questions from readers


Case of conscience

What can you tell me about the reliability of the electronic air suspension system (electronic air suspension) of the Land Rover Defender? I’m about to buy it and I wonder if I should take this option.

Claude T.

Your question is the subject of much debate among brand followers. There seems to be a clear consensus emerging in favor of this air suspension for the smooth ride it provides and the adaptability it demonstrates. But time wears things out. Critics of this suspension point to numerous malfunctions that could affect performance or force the vehicle to be immobilized (on the road or at the dealership). Finally, there is the (high) cost of repairs when the vehicle is no longer under warranty. All in all, wisdom dictates sticking to the “basic” suspension.

The question is 326 mm


PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA

A well-maintained 2013 Toyota Camry can still provide good service.

We are on the last year of leasing a 2013 Camry Hybrid XLE which we are fully satisfied with 21,000 km on the clock, without major problems. Should we keep it? We rarely make long trips. We are mainly thinking of a smaller car, less massive, but almost as luxurious. Without hybrid since we do little mileage (about 4000 km per year with driving mainly in town) and which is not too energy-intensive. What do you suggest to us? The Toyota Cross, the Corolla hatchback, the Prius Prime or simply changing brands?

Nicole V.

And why change a vehicle that has such low mileage and gives you satisfaction? You indicate a less “massive” car. GOOD. Your current Camry is 4800mm long. A Corolla Cross, 4474mm. Is your decision based on 326mm, i.e. one foot? It’s a lot and it’s a little at the same time. Your turn to judge. Besides, why “without hybrid”? Depending on your use, this technology is perfectly appropriate for urban use. Even more so if you opt for a plug-in hybrid vehicle (with wire). Finally, the vehicles mentioned have many qualities, but will not be as luxurious (in a broad sense) as your Camry XLE. Do you really want to switch to another less massive Toyota vehicle that is not hybrid and offers “similar” luxury features? Then we suggest you take a look at the sedan (hatchbacks are usually a little louder) Corolla XSE.

We keep it a little while waiting for the other


PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUDI

The Audi Q5

I drive an Audi Q5 which I love. The rental ends in October. I will buy it if I have to wait to receive a hybrid car. I don’t know what to watch, do you have a suggestion? An all-electric vehicle is not an option, as I drive long distances and cannot wait for charging.

Lucia R.

If you love it, why not keep it or order a Q5 TFSI e (rechargeable hybrid) by extending your rental, for example? The Q5 TFSI e starts at $76,100 and claims to be able to travel 37 km in electric mode.

The right engine


PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAL MOTORS

The GMC Canyon All Terrain

I would like to buy a Canyon or a Colorado. Is it better to go for the new redesigned models with a four-cylinder turbo or to find a used vehicle (2019-2022) with the six-cylinder? I’m going to use it to tow a trailer.

Jocelyn D.

Considering the shameless price of some used vehicles, why not treat yourself to the latest model? The latter is, it is true, more expensive than the previous generation, but appears much more rewarding to watch and drive. In addition, the supercharged four-cylinder provides more power, more torque and consumes an average of 1.4 L/100 km less than the V6, according to the EPA’s first estimates.


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