Expert advice | The automobile in questions

Our contributor answers readers’ questions

Last shot of gas

I have owned a Porsche Macan S since 2015 and want one last gas vehicle before transitioning to an electric vehicle. I’m hesitating between a BMW M3 Competition or a Volkswagen Golf R. Two quite different vehicles, I agree, but with a common purpose. What do you think would be the best choice, because I want to keep it for around 10 years?

Jean-François M.

Perhaps the best choice would be to consider the BMW M2. This one is more agile, more fun, less expensive to acquire and almost as fast as the M3. On the other hand, it only has two drive wheels, which makes its use on roads with a low coefficient of grip more difficult. As long as an M2 is not your primary vehicle, you should consider it. It would represent an ideal compromise between an M3 Competition and a Golf R. The latter is not unworthy, but since it is your last gasoline vehicle, why not offer yourself the velvety comfort of a six-cylinder engine online ?

The right opportunity

I will have to resolve to soon change my old 2007 Audi A3 which I love, but which is starting to show its age. Two events force my hand: the soon arrival of a fourth member of the family and an electronic breakdown in the Audi which makes travel hazardous. In my sights, a used hybrid car (2019 or newer). Not an electric one, it’s too complicated in town. Now the question: hybrid or plug-in hybrid? Models on my list: RAV4 hybrid/prime, Lexus NX 350/450, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Kia Sorento PHEV. I am looking for a reliable and spacious model for the next 10 years. A father who remains perplexed by so many options.

Martin C.

In theory, a plug-in hybrid engine emits half as many grams of CO₂ than a classic hybrid engine (non-rechargeable) and three times less than a traditional thermal model. But this advantage is purely hypothetical. Some users only occasionally, or never, charge their vehicle and thus turn the batteries into dead weight. Therefore, if an electric vehicle is too complicated for you in the city, you should then favor a wireless hybrid mechanism. In that case, may we suggest including the Toyota Sienna (from model year 2021) on your list? We know it’s a minivan, but this one will prove more functional than any vehicle currently in your sights. Don’t like the suggestion? In this case, the Lexus NX is certainly a reliable vehicle and one that will potentially always be under warranty. As for plug-in hybrids, the Outlander PHEV (more generous warranty) appears to be your best choice.

Bad target

I recently sold my 2017 Nissan Leaf because its range was no longer sufficient for my needs. I enjoyed my 100% electric experience and would like to purchase a new electric vehicle in spring 2024. Aside from the waiting time, I am concerned about the eventual resale value of this type of vehicle, considering of the rapid advancement of technology for these products. I’m afraid of buying an electric vehicle that will have no value in five or six years (if I wanted to sell it). In other words, should I wait until electric vehicle technology is more mature and stable before making my purchase? I could get a gasoline or hybrid vehicle in the meantime. Note that this purchase would be for a second vehicle, my first vehicle is gasoline.

François M.

Your fear is perfectly justified, even if the residual value of electric vehicles continues to rise and rivals that of combustion engine vehicles in many cases. That said, why wait? You liked your experience. So, know that this one promises to be even better due to the technological progress made since 2017. Therefore, since you seem to give primacy to your gasoline vehicle, why not consider a used electric vehicle? Some are even eligible for a government grant.

View details for government grant

Unwavering loyalty

I have always remained loyal to the Toyota Camry because of its reliability and cabin space. The one I currently own is a 2012 model in good condition, showing 168,000 km. However, as I am losing mobility, I find it too low and I struggle to get in and out. I’m looking for a new car of the year, very reliable, non-plug-in hybrid, a little raised, with good interior space (height and width) for the driver. I mainly travel around town.

André B.

If you’ve always liked the Camry, there’s a good chance you’ll be partial to Toyota’s Crown. This is a spacious hybrid sedan. You will probably have no trouble slipping in or out of the passenger compartment.