Cut
I have a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe that has 300,000 km. It has had its day and I would like to upgrade to the 2024 Sonata. Since I am single, I prefer coupes, but they are not really made anymore and I do not want an SUV. I like the look of the Sonata more than the Elantra and I keep my cars for a long time. Do you think this would be a good choice?
R.-C.
Coupes are no longer common, indeed. The Sonata is a good choice (average reliability), but there are better ones. You could also consider the Accord (Honda) and Camry (Toyota). Note that this segment is in ruins and several manufacturers are deserting it (Chevrolet) or are about to desert it (Nissan and Subaru).
Is it necessary?
PHOTO ANDREY RUDAKOV, THE BLOOMBERG PRESS
The Toyota logo
My next purchase will likely be my last for life. I plan to pay cash and keep this vehicle for 10-15 years. I am not looking for the ultimate luxury or a great customer experience. My main criteria are reliability, robustness, longevity and peace of mind. I am hesitant between Toyota and Lexus products. Considering the substantially higher costs of Lexus (purchase, maintenance, insurance, repairs, depreciation), but ignoring the luxury and customer experience, will Toyota products meet my criteria as well as Lexus products, and at a much lower total cost of ownership? Or would you advise me to spend more, year after year, on a Lexus product, so that I will not have to think about it for life?
Louise L.-L.
Why pay more if you don’t need luxury or the customer experience? Many Lexus products are derived from Toyotas. You will find the same reliability, the same robustness with a Toyota product for the use you intend to make of it. Take advantage of your savings to spoil yourself differently.
Winter topic
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU
The Subaru Forester
I would like to buy a vehicle in which I would feel safe in the winter. As I get older, I am more and more afraid of driving in the winter. Subaru’s reputation in this area is undeniable, so I had thought about the Forester. Do you have any other suggestions? I would have the chance to buy an Ioniq5 Ultimate. Would this vehicle meet my need for safety? I hesitate.
Karine V.
The Forester (gasoline) and the Ioniq 5 (electric) are two good choices. But neither will solve your winter driving fears. These two vehicles are safe, but you are in control. Another important aspect to consider, but too often overlooked: the quality of winter tires. They also make a difference. Finally, we strongly suggest that you invest (it is not an expense in this case) in training to better master winter driving. There are currently several training sessions in Quebec, including the one from Mécaglisse.
Visit the Mécaglisse website
Where and when ?
PHOTO CLAUDIA GRECO, REUTERS ARCHIVES
The Volvo EX30
I read your test drive of the Volvo EX30 with great interest. The reason is simple: I am on the waiting list for this vehicle. I was wondering: where did the test drive take place and have you been able to find out the arrival date of this vehicle in Canada? As you probably know, the arrival date has already been postponed a few times and I wonder how much longer potential future owners of this vehicle will have to wait.
Marie-Josée G.
The test of this vehicle was carried out in Sweden (European version) last spring. As for the marketing date, it has indeed been postponed more than once, but Volvo indicates that the first deliveries will begin by the end of the summer.