Don’t cut
I own a 2018 Volkswagen Beetle convertible that is approaching 30,000 km. It remains reliable and I enjoy driving it despite some problems with brake wear and the narrowness of the rear seats. Taking into account an interesting range in the sales market, I am looking closely at the 2024 convertibles even if the number of models decreases. My next car will have to survive the next five years. Should I go for the new Mercedes hybrid CLE? The BMW 3 Series? The Audi A5? The Ford Mustang? Very noisy. I ruled out the MX5. I don’t want a firm suspension and I have to pay attention to consumption, especially if the octane number is high. Should I wait for the new fully electric models in 2025?
Nancy R.
The spring season represents a good time to sell your current vehicle at a very good price. Especially since it has very low mileage. However, you write, this one gives you “great pleasure”. Why change it? Due to (premature?) brake wear? The narrowness of the rear seats? While the convertible segment is declining, your Volkswagen is even more attractive to open-top driving enthusiasts. Especially since the cost of replacement parts is reasonable, unlike some vehicles you covet. We suggest you keep it. However, if you have an irresistible desire to change now, we suggest, based on your criteria, the Audi A5. A proven model today, unlike the Mercedes CLE, and a bit more reliable than the BMW 3 Series. The idea of waiting for an electric vehicle (a coupe or a convertible) is not crazy. Mini’s future Cooper (the convertible version will, however, remain powered by a gasoline engine) and the Tesla Roadster will undoubtedly then be visible in dealerships. It is rumored that from 2026-2027, Genesis, Polestar and Alfa Romeo could market a fully electric coupe or convertible.
A worry
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
Toyota Sienna
To meet the growing needs of our small family, we are considering purchasing a minivan. We are hesitating between the Honda Odyssey, the Kia Carnival and the Toyota Sienna. The Sienna hybrid’s low fuel consumption is enticing, but the now well-known problems with high-voltage cables on recent Toyota RAV4 hybrids worry us. What do you think ?
Emile D.
Of all your choices, the Sienna represents the best. The cable problem was identified and acknowledged by Toyota. In the case of the Sienna, the problem currently affects the 2021 and 2022 model years. Toyota’s Canadian management has already committed to replacing the defective cables and extending the warranty.
The right grip
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
Toyota Corolla
I own a 2013 Yaris LE in good condition and with 85,000 km in 10 years. I would like to acquire a more modern car, well equipped, offering more comfort and easy to access (it would not be very difficult). I’m more eco-friendly than performance, but not ready for 100% electric, rather hybrid or plug-in hybrid. If it is a used vehicle, no more than two years old and with low mileage. I have great confidence in Toyota. The Corolla Cross particularly interests me. Do you have any other suggestions?
Denis B.
In its hybrid configuration, the Corolla Cross is currently without rival. This is a good choice since this model meets your criteria. That said, considering the low mileage traveled over the last 10 years and your openness to plugging in a vehicle (plug-in hybrid), you should still consider a fully electric vehicle. This one, with the help of government programs, won’t really cost you more (to purchase) than a well-equipped Corolla Cross. Since you trust Toyota, you could consider the BZ4X or, among the competition, the Kona EV from Hyundai or the Bolt and Equinox EV from Chevrolet.
Problems on the horizon
PHOTO PROVIDED BY AUDI
Audi SQ5 Sportback
I am currently leasing a 2021 Audi SQ5 Sportback and my mileage is 54,000 km. My lease is expiring in a few months. I’m hesitant about buying it for around $43,000 (taxes included) or simply giving back the keys and starting the rental again with another vehicle. Do you have any recommendations?
Anne-Marie D.
Your hesitation is understandable. Reliability is not there, according to consumer associations and our readers. Problems related to on-board electronics and the chassis (suspension elements and steering) are among the most frequently mentioned problems. Better return the keys.