A little calculation to do
I have a 2003 Audi A4 convertible with 128,000 km on the clock (American built). We changed the roof and a lot of things. We now have a transmission problem that should cost us $4000. The interior and exterior are immaculate and it doesn’t have a lot of mileage for a 2003. Is it a good idea to have it serviced or should we say goodbye to it? We would like another, smaller convertible, but there are no reliable models. Do you have any suggestions ?
Lisa
The market value of your vehicle is approximately $6,000… First, we suggest you obtain another quote from a specialized workshop. Maybe this one can repair the transmission inexpensively. If not, you should consider replacing it. By what other vehicle? You could consider a used convertible from Audi (A3 Cabriolet) or even BMW (Series 2). The BMW is more reliable and more pleasant to drive.
Again
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HYUNDAI
Hyundai Kona EV
Contrary to what your text of January 31 said (and what Hyundai had announced), the Kona EV does not include the V2L function for vehicles sold in Canada. It’s very disappointing. The electronic module allowing energy transfer in both directions would not have been installed. I am taking possession of my 2024 Kona Ultimate at the end of the month and this is what the dealer confirmed to me. Maybe in 2025?
Yves D.
You’re absolutely right. During the press launch of this vehicle last December, Hyundai assured us of the presence of this functionality (V2L) on vehicles intended for the Canadian market. Following your submission, we contacted the manufacturer. This corroborates the words of your dealer, without being able to explain the absence of this module which is however offered in the United States on the Limited version of the Kona EV. The spokesperson for the South Korean firm could not confirm when Canadians will be entitled to it.
Endangered species
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HONDA
Honda Civic
I have always driven manual transmission vehicles, except for my last one (Toyota Highlander) with which I tow the family trailer. We have to change the second vehicle; my partner would keep the SUV. After testing an electric vehicle, I realized that I would really be happier with a car with a manual transmission. I miss it ! I keep my cars for a long time. I am looking for a used vehicle and my three main criteria are: reliability, fuel economy and driving pleasure (even sporty). My budget is between $20,000 and $25,000. I looked at the Civic, Mazda3, Golf, Jetta, Subaru, BMW perhaps? However, I don’t know what to choose. Can you help me ?
J.K.
BMW, yes, but there is a price to pay all the same. The Civic (more economical at the pump) and the Mazda3 (more fun to drive) should be at the top of your list. The manual transmission of Honda and Mazda is less rubbery (Volkswagen) and less grippy (Subaru) than that offered by its direct rivals.
Return to PHEVs
PHOTO ARCHIVES ASSOCIATED PRESS
Toyota RAV4 Prime
Your February 19 article on the Outlander PHEV is very interesting. Besides the fact that the delivery times of the RAV4 Prime are not reasonable, technically, are the two vehicles equivalent? Or does the Prime stand out for better reliability at a similar cost? What puts me off the most about Toyota is the delivery. You emphasize that behind the wheel of the Outlander PHEV, this requires a lot of discipline, in the same way as recharging regularly at a terminal and not entrusting the internal combustion engine with the task of doing so. Is this comment also applicable to the Toyota RAV4 Prime as well as any plug-in hybrid? Or is it more present for the Outlander PHEV? Once again, thank you for your cooperation.
Christian L.
These comments also apply to the Toyota RAV4 Prime. The latter, however, has the advantage of being more powerful and much more economical than the Mitsubishi. In addition, the Toyota offers a better electric range (68 km compared to 61 km). On the other hand, the Outlander offers a more reassuring warranty, increased versatility, superior acoustic comfort and better traction (more efficient all-wheel drive) compared to the RAV4 Prime.