Expert advice | Car questions

Our collaborator answers readers’ questions.



The importance of tires

I would like your opinion on a tire choice for my car. I purchased a 2022 Kia Forte EX. I am happy with my purchase, however, I was wondering if better tires would improve the ride and handling. I read your 2022 Forte review. You mentioned that the original tires were pretty average, Kumho Solus TA31s. I am looking at the Michelin Defender 2 and the Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II. Perhaps another model would be a better fit for my sedan?

Luke

You are absolutely right in believing that better tires would improve handling, ride comfort, but also reduce braking distances, fuel consumption, and grip on wet roads. Both of your choices are good. If you are looking for better durability and ride comfort, we recommend the Michelin. For performance, we suggest the Pirelli. You may also want to consider the Yokohama Ascend GT.

Travelogue

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUDI

The Audi Q3 Sportback

I am currently in Nice on the French Riviera. I noticed the Audi Q3 Sportback in particular. I was wondering if this model was for sale in Canada. Several articles since 2019 have indicated that its arrival was delayed. Can we believe that 2025 will be the right year or should we mourn it?

Pierre P.

One thing is certain, it won’t be in 2025. If this model were to make a career in Canada, Audi would expect its complete overhaul in the coming months. Indeed, the brand with the rings will lift the veil on the third generation of this model in the coming months and everything indicates that it will be offered next year (2026 vintage). For now, Audi is not saying anything about the Sportback version of this model, which should debut a hybrid engine.

Cost price

PHOTO COURTESY OF LINCOLN

The Lincoln Corsair

We own a 2013 Lincoln MKX Special Edition with 270,000 km. We are retired and drive about 15,000 km per year. We are thinking of changing vehicles next spring and we are hesitating between a Lincoln Corsair and a Chevrolet Blazer, cheaper for the low mileage we do. Any advice please?

Marie-Josée D.

In its current form, the Corsair is coming to an end. Just like its derivative, the Escape (Ford), which compares more favorably in price with the Blazer. The latter is larger, and also more fuel-hungry. If you were thinking about a vehicle the size of the Corsair, you should perhaps direct your research towards the Chevrolet Equinox. You could also consider the Subaru Forester and the Mitsubishi Outlander.

City attire

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HYUNDAI

The Hyundai Ioniq 6

I have to change my Volvo S60 after more than 12 years of good and loyal service. This is the first time after 50 years of loyalty to Volvo that I am about to change brands. I have narrowed my choices to the Ioniq 6, the Kia EV6 or the Volvo C40 Recharge. The Toyota Camry would be a possibility, but it is less attractive compared to the others. What do you think? My essential criteria: electric, plug-in hybrid or hybrid, 4-door sedan, all-wheel drive, comfort, safety. I drive an average of 13,500 km per year, 75% in the city.

Guy D.

If you have easy access to a charging station, the Ioniq 6 is probably the most interesting choice on your list. Its unusual shape, quiet ride and overall performance make it a very attractive sedan. On the hybrid side, the Camry is a safe choice. You might also consider the Prius (the Prime version is not available with all-wheel drive), which is more agile in urban environments.


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