Know how to wait
Q: We are a Montreal family of five (children aged 8, 5 and 4), we currently own a 2016 Honda CR-V and have always applied the “smallest possible” formula when choosing our vehicle. We have always kept our vehicles for around ten years. As children grow, so does the space they want to have in the vehicle. We are considering purchasing a new, larger vehicle, such as an SUV, but with the prices of new vehicles continuing to increase as well as the high interest rates linked to this type of purchase, our heart is unsure. . We also know that the supply of hybrid or fully electric vehicles that will soon enter the market will increase. We are really indecision. Can you help us find our way and offer us a vehicle that would meet our current and future needs? – Manuel G.
A: And why not wait a little longer? As you say so well, the offer continues to diversify. The first fully electric multi-seater vehicles are upon us (Kia EV9, Volkswagen ID.Buzz). If your vehicle is in good condition and reliable, why not keep it for a while? Over the next few months, new products will appear.
Muscle for the trailer
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU
Subaru Forester Wilderness
Q: I have a 2022 Mazda CX–5 with which I tow a 1900 lb trailer and I find that I need a slightly stronger SUV. What can pull up to 3000 lbs without breaking the bank? –Susie C.
A: You might consider the Wilderness version of the Subaru Forester. This, unlike the other liveries in the range, can tow a load of 3000 lbs. Although its reliability is sometimes more problematic and its hydrocarbon appetite higher, there is still reason to take a look at the Jeep Cherokee (with the V6). Finally, a more exotic suggestion, the Hyundai Santa Cruz (maximum capacity of 5000 lbs).
The right tire
PHOTO PROVIDED BY KIA
Kia EV6
Q: We will soon have a front-wheel drive Polestar 2 and a rear-wheel drive Kia EV6. Living in a very hilly area with small roads and lots of snow, we would like studded tires for just one of the cars, but we don’t know which one. Our vehicles have different wheels and drive systems, is it better to stud one rather than the other? – Laurence B.
A: Of the two vehicles you own, it is better to equip your Kia EV6 with studded tires. There are several models available on the market and after testing a number of them, we suggest the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10. It offers remarkable traction, is relatively quiet and its construction has been suitable for electric vehicles.
The day comes
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
2015 Toyota Highlander
Q: I own a 2014 Highlander with 175,000 km on the clock. I love it, it offers good performance and room to put lots of luggage on the weekend. The fact remains that it is a bit greedy, and it will have to be replaced one day. I’m eyeing the RAV4 Prime (ordered a year ago) or the Kia Sorento. Here’s the dilemma: The Highlander is still worth $20,000. With the return, a $50,000 car will cost me $30,000. But if I wait, the value of my car goes down and the cost of the new car goes up. So it will cost me a lot more than $30,000. So, should I buy or wear out the Highlander? I would like to go for an all-electric, but with an average range of 400 km, that seems too tight for my annual summer vacation in Gaspésie. –Richard A.
A: The day will indeed come, but now is not the time to change your vehicle. It’s a bit greedy, you say, but your Toyota seems to meet your current expectations. And judging by your annual mileage (slightly less than 20,000 km), it could, for a few more years, provide you with valuable service. This will give you plenty of time to reevaluate your future needs. For example, will you still go to Gaspésie? This period of time will also allow the automotive industry to improve its offering and guarantee better supplies. And, who knows, it is up to financial institutions to revise interest rates downwards.