Moderate your transport
I have a 2014 Ram 1500 with 170,000 km. It’s our only vehicle. With this one, I am able to pull my snowmobile, my four-wheeler and fill the dumpster with firewood. We no longer have children at home, only three dogs (5 lbs, 12 lbs, 65 lbs). For two years, I have made major repairs (spark plugs, suspension, brakes, all oils, etc.). Rust is starting to appear. I don’t think I need a van anymore. I would like to purchase a used vehicle capable of towing a load of 5000 lbs. I’m looking at the Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder. Maximum budget of $35,000. Do you have any suggestions other than the models mentioned? What do you recommend ? Is there a hybrid vehicle that would do the job?
François C.
Let’s blast away the vehicles on your list. The reliability of the Jeep Cherokee can be problematic, as can the Pathfinder’s continuously variable transmission (CVT). There remains the Sorento and the Santa Fe (twins) which sometimes age prematurely. Since each used vehicle is unique, careful verification is essential before making a purchase. Instead, we recommend considering the Honda Pilot (a 2019 fits your budget) because of its reliability and versatility. The Toyota Highlander should also be on your list, but unfortunately not its hybrid version, which has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs.
A faithful
PHOTO ARCHIVES ASSOCIATED PRESS
Toyota Corolla
I have been the happy owner of a Corolla for almost 15 years and I would like to change vehicles. I’m hesitating between the Corolla SE (luxury) and the Camry LE (base) as well as between a gasoline or hybrid vehicle. However, my visit to a dealership did not convince me. I couldn’t even see the vehicles let alone try them to get an idea. Is this the new way of doing things? Should we just shop online? It’s still not a small purchase. What do you think would be the best choice for a retiree?
Guy D.
The automobile industry is gradually returning to cruising speed, but the range of models remains limited. Therefore, we should not be surprised by the unavailability of vehicles for a test drive at dealerships. Also, you should know that the Camry will get a facelift this year. It will likely be more expensive and will be powered exclusively by hybrid mechanics. With that in mind, and considering your satisfaction with the Corolla, it should be at the top of your list. Note that a hybrid version also exists if you want to reduce consumption and polluting emissions from your future Corolla.
An Audi, but which one?
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUDI
Audi Q3
I’m thinking of getting an Audi Q3 or Q5 from 2021 or 2022 with low mileage that I would like to keep for four or five years. I am looking for driving pleasure, safety and comfort. Which one do you suggest?
Roger B.
If you have to choose between the two, we suggest you opt for the Q3, more economical at the pump and more agile. That said, a mechanical inspection is essential. Pay particular attention to the health of the engine which, according to several readers, suffers from excessive oil consumption. The repair promises to be extremely expensive. Also, be sure to have the transmission checked. This requires ongoing maintenance.
For the mountains
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU
Subaru Crosstrek
I have a 2015 Volkswagen Golf that lost its turbo after the warranty ended (a $5000 repair that I have no intention of doing). My car has therefore become very inefficient, even dangerous, especially in the mountains. I want to replace it with a four-wheel drive vehicle (I have a chalet in the mountains). My criteria are reliability, low gas mileage and price. Would the Subaru Crosstrek be a good choice? Do you have a better option? Rental or purchase? I usually keep my cars for 10 to 15 years.
Catherine D.
The Subaru Crosstrek is currently one of the best choices in the category. Its naturally aspirated engine (no turbo) is robust, its all-wheel drive is also one of the most efficient. A second option would be to consider Honda’s HR-V.