Q. I want to replace my 2014 Subaru STI hatchback. I waited for the unveiling of the next generation STI to see if the five-door body would be back. She’s not on the trip, so she’s eliminated! In the meantime, I’ve looked for the Volkswagen Golf R, which finally offers a panoramic sunroof, and the Mercedes A-Class AMG with five doors. I put a cross on it, the price charged by the manufacturer being pharaonic if we simply want to have equipment comparable to the R. In another vein, I’m flirting with the Kia Stinger, which is so beautiful ! I tried it. It’s impressive, but it’s an automatic transmission car. Will I end up bored with the manual transmission? Will it be reliable, and what will remain of its value in six or seven years, since it is destined to disappear in North American territory? In addition, we are announcing the return of the Acura Integra, which is confusing the issue. What to do ? By the way, I love to drive in all kinds of conditions. I love the feeling of security that AWD cars give, but I hate SUVs (no drivability and questionable handling even in snow). I always managed to choose my cars on my own, but now …
– Serge L.
R. If you had to make your decision today, the Golf R appears to be the vehicle that best meets your expectations. More so if you opt for the manual transmission. Volkswagen has already indicated that it is offered for the last time on this model. The Golf R therefore, even more than the Stinger. The latter ages poorly, consumes too much and its production, according to several sources, will soon be abandoned. Finally, although it is too early to pass a final judgment, the Integra has so far disappointed more than it has excited fans.
A NEW ENGINE?
Q. Always interesting on Mondays to find your comments on the different car models and shows. In this regard, what comments can you add to the new three-cylinder engine of the Nissan Rogue? Is it not found under the hood of certain models of the Infiniti brand? Have you heard any comments about its effectiveness?
– Richard G.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY NISSAN
Nissan rogue
R. Thanks for reading. A test drive of the Rogue equipped with the three-cylinder engine will be released on December 6. This engine adopts more or less the same technical advances (variable compression ratio) as the Infiniti QX50 and QX55 duo. It is also found on certain versions of the Altima sold in the United States. Note, however, that this is a four-cylinder and not a three-cylinder. To date, this engine has proven to be reliable, but unable to keep its promises in terms of consumption. The three-cylinder 1.5L appears to be able to correct this situation in the light of the test that we have carried out.
HIDDEN FEES
Q. Why is the price range $ 3000 higher on the Toyota site than what you indicate in your article?
– Stéphane P.
PHOTO EUGENE HOSHIKO, ARCHIVES ASSOCIATED PRESS
Toyota includes freight, delivery and other related costs in the prices shown on its website.
R. Simply because Toyota includes freight and delivery charges and other related costs (air conditioner tax, for example), as required by law.
THE CATCH
Q. I have to return my vehicle, a Toyota RAV4, at the end of a four year lease on July 6th. I decided to keep the vehicle. What about this insurance that I paid $ 700 at the time of the rental (for excessive wear and tear up to $ 4000), since the notion of “excessive wear” no longer exists since I am buying back the? ‘auto? Can I claim this amount?
– Lomer B.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
2019 Toyota RAV4
R. This is a situation that comes up often. You can claim a full refund of the insurance only if this clause was entered when you signed your lease. If not, you can say goodbye to your $ 700. The golden rule is to always include this clause in the contract if you take out such insurance.