The right catch
I own a 2021 Volvo XC60 (very satisfied). The lease ends in October. I want to turn to an electric vehicle. The Volvo XC40 Recharge would have been an option, but it is too small for our needs (we regularly go on trips with four adults). So comfort and cargo space are a priority, including a valued finish and of course a minimum range of 400 km. Our budget requires having both the provincial and federal subsidies of $12,000. I carefully read your article on the Blazer EV. Is the AWD RS model less banal, as your conclusion suggests? Also, your comparison does not include the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD, which I am also considering. Your recommendation between the two? Another vehicle to consider?
Sandro M.
The Chevrolet Blazer EV is in a higher category than the ID.4 due to its size. The RS version, although more energetic, does not offer a higher driving pleasure. At this point, it would be premature to give a reliability rating to this Chevrolet since it is a new model and in this context, it is difficult to recommend it. On the other hand, the reliability record of the ID.4, which was marketed in 2021, is more documented. And it is not very good according to several consumer agencies due in particular to numerous electronic malfunctions. Consequently, we cannot recommend either one. Other vehicles to consider? Yes, you could think for example about the Kia EV6 and the Nissan Ariya.
Disparate choice
I have a 2017 Cadillac ATS with 80,000 km on the odometer and I’m starting to have trouble getting out of the vehicle. I’m planning on changing soon. I’m hesitating between the Toyota Corolla Cross, the Toyota Crown, the Kia Niro and the Buick Encore. I’m looking for comfort and economy. What do you recommend?
Laurent H.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
The Toyota Crown
This is a very diverse group. If you are looking for a vehicle that is more spacious, more comfortable and more economical than your current ATS, the Toyota Crown is probably your best choice here in its Limited version (5.7 L/100 km). The Platinum version of the Crown, more powerful (2.4 liters), consumes almost 2 L/100 km more. The other three vehicles (Corolla Cross, Niro and Encore) belong to a different category (urban SUVs). Of the three, the Kia Niro, with its plug-in hybrid engine (the only vehicle to offer this configuration), is the most economical at the pump and the most comfortable of the three (the Buick outperforms it in the area of acoustic comfort, however).
Expenses
I have a 2009 BMW Cabriolet, 160,000 km. Over the past two years, I have spent a lot of money (+/- $8,000) to keep it in top shape. This year, it’s going well, but I’m hesitant to keep it, for fear of a new problem. I really like the Kia Seltos, the 2025 model should arrive soon. On the other hand, I have a problem with my conscience because of the “environment”, if I don’t buy electric and I’m told that to have hybrid, it’s a very long time. Not to mention the high prices. I have a lot of questions about this… I do about 8,000 km per year (now retired), more in the winter, because I go downhill skiing and the ski resort is 50 km from my home. I have always kept my cars for 10 years. My budget is not unlimited. Should I keep it, should I change it? What do you advise me? Should I stick with petrol or not? What is the best choice (model/brand) depending on my usage?
Nicole L.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY BMW
The BMW Convertible
Without knowing the nature of the work done (+/-$8,000), it’s still a lot of money. In addition, this car, which requires regular maintenance, does not seem to be the most functional for your activities. So, ideally, you should keep it until spring. The fall season is not very suitable for selling a convertible unless you agree to a large discount. You will offer it in the spring. You will then get a better price and this will give you time to make your decision on your next vehicle. Choosing an electric vehicle is to be considered, of course, but first make sure you can count on a charging station at home. It’s simpler. Since you keep your vehicles for a very long time, favor an electric vehicle that has a history of reliability and avoid the latest new models as much as possible. As for the Seltos, it is a good choice, but the Honda HR-V and Subaru Crosstrek are better.
A question of comfort
I am still waiting for delivery of a Prius Prime purchased in November 2022, but I have questions about the comfort of this car. The test drives at the dealership are rather brief and on carefully selected routes. I drive a 2011 Camry hybrid, which I have always been satisfied with the comfort and performance. I drive about 12,000 km per year. I wonder about the comfort of the Prius on the highway during long trips, even though I want to do my part for the environment by using electricity for most trips in urban areas at least two seasons per year. One last question: is the comfort of the Lexus ES hybrid really much better than that of the Camry hybrid?
Robert N.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
The Toyota Prius
You will appreciate the comfort of the front seats of your Prius on long journeys. On the other hand, compared to a Camry, the noise level is higher (especially during acceleration) and the suspension travel is stiffer (on bumpy roads). The comfort of the ES is superior to that of the Camry (including the new generation). On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the highest), the ES would get a 5 and the Camry a 4.