Expert advice | The automobile in questions: the right answers

Q. How come the representatives of Nissan are unable to answer our questions regarding the Ariya? […] Could you tell us about the eligibility of the four models of the Nissan Ariya for government aid and the price thereof? As well as the date of their release in Quebec? How does the shortage of microprocessors impact the arrival of the Ariya in Canada?

– Yves L.

Eric LeFrançois
Special collaboration

R. Representatives can’t answer your questions because they just don’t know. Negotiations between Nissan and its Canadian distributor are still ongoing to establish the prices and characteristics of this model, which is scheduled for release next spring, confirms the spokesperson for the company. The latter ensures that the shortage of microprocessors will not have an impact on the release of this model which will make its debut in Asia and Europe before heading for North America.

NOT TOO LONG

Q. We have two vehicles: a 2011 Toyota Sienna van (which I plan to tear down) and a 2011 Mini Cooper. We are active 60 year olds and occasionally carry grandchildren. We are going to replace the Mini Copper within a year and we are looking for a vehicle that is definitely more comfortable (so comfortable is a word for the Mini) that does not exceed 14 ft long (the Mini is 12 ft) and spacious enough to fit in. two golf bags with carts and two suitcases. We are looking for a recent opportunity with a budget of $ 40,000 to $ 45,000 or less, if possible. My girlfriend recently saw a Mercedes GLA 250. We’ll go check it out, but do you have another suggestion?

– Jocelyn and Nadine

R. Sure. You might consider the Buick Encore and Encore GX. They correspond to the desired criteria (comfort, length and volume of the boot). They may not be as fun to drive as a Mini, but they do have the merit of being less expensive to maintain and more reliable.

A GOOD PURCHASE?

Q. I have a 2006 Honda Accord and am looking to purchase a new Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Is this a good buy? Otherwise, what do you recommend? I do about 12,000 km per year.

– Lise L.

R. This is a very good buy. A robust, functional, reliable vehicle with a high residual value. Despite your low annual mileage and assuming you’ll keep this vehicle for a very long time (your vehicle is still 15 years old), the cost of the hybrid version is worth the outlay.

SUPPLY

Q. In 2017, I bought a 2015 Audi A3 sedan with 24,000 km on the clock for $ 29,000, and I really like it. I intend to change it for another newer used, but my Audi dealership representative tells me that there is no stock. Not even a demonstrator vehicle. Is it possible ? Do you advise me to take the warranty extension?

– Andrée R.

R. It’s entirely possible. Several models are out of stock. As for the extended warranty, why did you subscribe to this protection if your short-term intention is to get rid of your current vehicle? This vehicle is known to be reliable and only requires regular maintenance.