Extreme conditions
I work in the Far North of Quebec. The roads in winter are difficult to pass, it takes a lot of grip. In the spring and summer, the potholes are huge and often break up vehicles. These will never be fixed and we must use these paths to move around the different villages. We offer home care and we travel to people’s homes. We don’t have to drag a trailer, but it does take up space for luggage. We are looking for a vehicle that can ideally accommodate six people on board, but five is good. It must be robust (ice, extreme cold, mud, paths with rocks). Which vehicle would be best? A 4×4 truck or an SUV like the RAV4? Your suggestions are welcome. The Jeeps we have are always broken. The first criterion is reliability, because there is no dealer in the Far North.
Guy T.
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner (the 2025 model will arrive in the fall and be completely redesigned) is arguably the most rugged and reliable choice. This model has up to three rows of seats (Limited version). It is a bit rustic in several respects and should be favored over the new generation which promises to be more complex (turbocharged engine) and unproven. You mention the RAV4 (Trail, probably), we recommend the Outback (Wilderness ideally) from Subaru. You could also take a look at Honda’s Pilot, but it’s still relatively new (it was redesigned last year) and its reliability record is still too pristine.
The desire to change
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ACURA
2015 Acura TLX
I am the very satisfied owner of an Acura TLX purchased new in 2015. It now has 74,000 km on the clock. So far I have only spent on the usual maintenance (tires, brakes). The only unresolved problem is my reversing camera which no longer works (Acura changed it the first time under warranty). But my car is approaching 10 years old. I wonder if I should sell it before major repairs or if this model will be reliable enough for a few more years.
Patrice H.
If it’s just the reversing camera… The price of this repair is tiny compared to that of a new vehicle. The TLX is a model with an above-average reputation for reliability. Considering your current mileage, we suggest you keep it for a few more years.
Critical thinking
PHOTO TED SHAFFREY, ASSOCIATED PRESS ARCHIVES
Genesis GV70
I am a retired septuagenarian who owns a 2017 Acura MDX with 132,000 km on the clock. I want to treat myself and I’m leaning towards a hybrid Volvo XC60 or a Genesis GV70 Advance (I’m not ready for electric). I drive around 20,000 km per year. I wonder which one could satisfy me.
Lucie B.
Isn’t the MDX luxurious enough already? In addition, you travel on average 16,500 km per year. Your current vehicle still has several years of service to offer you. Why change? If your personal reflection still leads you to consider a new vehicle, we suggest the GV70, more reliable and less expensive to maintain.
Long live winter
PHOTO PROVIDED BY NOKIAN
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 EV winter tire
I’m getting there early. What winter tires do you recommend for a Tesla 3 2024 Long Range? I’m hesitating between Nokian, Michelin and Pirelli. I don’t want crampons. I’m looking for a durable, quiet tire with a good wear guarantee. I travel an average of 18,000 km per year (city/road).
François L.
Very good brands, but your first choice should be the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 EV. The Michelin (X-Ice) occupies second place in our list and is well ahead of the Pirelli here.