Expert advice | The automobile in question: car or watture?

Our collaborator answers readers’ questions



Eric LeFrançois

Eric LeFrançois
Special collaboration

Q. I am looking for a 100% electric vehicle. I am very active (young retiree in my late fifties) and I average more than 60 km daily. I have active young adults and I must consider having space (hockey bag, 45 kg dog, equestrian equipment, skis, etc.). I currently have a 2020 Nissan Rogue that I am ready to sell. I am looking for a range of at least 400 km. My entourage advises against a hybrid vehicle. I have a budget of around $ 50,000. Your advice will be invaluable to me.

– Suzanne F.

R. Why do those around you discourage the purchase of a hybrid vehicle? This technology is certainly not a necessary step, but remains a relevant transition solution for many motorists. That said, you might be interested in the future Ariya from Nissan (opting for the same brand as your current vehicle could make the transaction easier) or even Volkswagen’s ID.4, the Ioniq 5 (a sub-brand of Hyundai). and the Kia EV6. These will be the subject of a test bench in the coming weeks.

FOR EXCURSIONS

Q. Due to its underuse, we sold our biggest SUV. We kept our 2015 Toyota RAV4 with just under 150,000 km on the clock. However, even if it has all the strengths of a RAV4 (cargo space, consumption, reliability, etc.), it has two major flaws for us: a suspension that really leaves something to be desired and a fairly limited ground clearance for our fishing trips. We are looking for a 2020, 2021 or 2022 model and we hesitate between the Nissan Rogue, another Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester. Which one to choose ?

– Richard P.


PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU

Subaru Forester Wilderness

R. Of all your choices, the Forester wins hands down. Its higher ground clearance (especially if you opt for the new Wilderness version) makes it a better off-roader than the other two.

DIFFICULT DECISION

Q. For my retirement, in May 2018 I acquired a new Mercedes GLC which I am very satisfied with. I have driven less than 43,000 km. Ah! COVID-19… In 2022, I have to make a decision about purchasing a two-year extended warranty around $ 2,500. I plan to keep my vehicle for at least four years. Is it relevant?

– Guy C.


PHOTO PROVIDED BY MERCEDES-BENZ

Mercedes-Benz GLC 2016

R. The most common problems experienced by GLC owners are electronics. And repairs are sometimes very expensive. Therefore, if the guarantee offered covers electrical and electronic malfunctions, prudence encourages you to obtain such a guarantee (transferable) by making sure you negotiate the price beforehand.

NORMAL WEAR

Q. Last week, you were talking about reimbursement for excess wear and tear insurance when purchasing the rental vehicle. I bought back my vehicle after five years, with the amount of $ 745 written on the contract, but the dealership refuses to reimburse this amount, saying that I have to deal with Toyota credit. He also refuses to reimburse me. Is this normal? Or did I misunderstand the content of your article?

– Louis ST-L.


PHOTO JUSTIN TANG, ARCHIVES THE CANADIAN PRESS

Insurance issues acquired at the dealership sow doubt among buyers.

R. The amount is without a shadow of a doubt listed in your contract, but is there a mention that this amount is refundable if you make the decision to buy the vehicle at the end of the lease? Yes ? Then the sum is refundable. Otherwise, the dealer or the lending firm is not obligated to reimburse you.


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