Replacement battery
I have a 2016 Audi A3 e-Tron, the battery is holding up well (40 km of range), but its efficiency is decreasing, I have already had 50 km of range. I would like to know if it is possible to change the battery for a more efficient one.
Danièle L.
We suggest that you first have the state of the battery checked (State of Charge). Ideally, this check should be carried out by an authorized dealer of the brand. As for replacement with a more efficient battery, this is impossible although in Europe, Audi has offered a more efficient battery on this model.
2-1
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
The market value of the 2016 Toyota Venza is higher than that of the 2017 RAV4.
We own two Toyota vehicles. A 2017 RAV4 with 110,000 km and a 2016 Venza with 60,000 km on the clock. We’re thinking of sticking to one vehicle next year. Which one should we keep?
Serge B.
Should we interpret, by comparing the mileage of your vehicles, that you appreciate the RAV4 more? If we assume that your Venza is equipped with the V6 engine, then in terms of energy, the RAV4 represents by far the most eco-friendly choice. Additionally, the market value of your Venza is higher than that of your RAV4.
Automotive cloning
PHOTO XIA YANG, PROVIDED BY MITSUBISHI
The Mitsubishi Outlander (2022 PHEV model pictured) is an almost identical vehicle to the Nissan Rogue, but it offers a more generous warranty.
I drive a 2014 Nissan Rogue with 325,000 km on the odometer. I am very satisfied with my experience with Nissan. I’m starting to look at what’s on the market. I always keep my cars for about 10 years. The 3-cylinder engine on the new Rogue bothers me a little. I was thinking of looking at the Outlander, RAV4 and Tiguan too. What do you suggest?
Stephanie B.
If you loved your Rogue and were thinking about getting another one, the Mitsubishi Outlander is probably the best choice. Both vehicles are technically identical. Well almost. Additionally, Mitsubishi offers a more generous warranty than Nissan and all the other manufacturers you mention. The RAV4 also represents a safe value. As for the Tiguan, reliability, according to several owners, still appears uncertain.
Really necessary?
PHOTO EDOUARD PLANTE-FRÉCHETTE, LA PRESSE ARCHIVES
The device called “automatic cut-off when stopping” can reduce a vehicle’s consumption by up to 8%.
Start and Stop is more and more present. Is it good for the engine to stop and start so often and is it really more economical than a vehicle that does not have this technology?
Jade B.
This device, called “automatic cut-off when stopping”, first appeared on hybrid vehicles. It has since become widespread on other vehicles and, good news, it is available in Canada. This technology makes it possible to reduce fuel consumption in the same way, for example, as a cylinder deactivation system. This device leads to a reduction in fuel consumption and polluting emissions. In fact, this automatic cut-off device when stopping can reduce a vehicle’s consumption by up to 8% in certain road conditions, according to the latest study by the Society of Automotive Engineering (SAE).