To do one’s homework
I always wonder where your columnist gets his information on Volkswagen, always mistakes […] In his column, there is this pearl: “This model is aimed today at a clientele older than that of the R. The latter, whose beginnings in Canada go back to 2012, is recruiting younger buyers.” Is he on purpose to always be wrong about the R? Young people buy the GTi because it is cheaper and more fun to drive (no AWD). The R is considered to be a tank of old people (like me who am 50 years old) who want “fun without a car have you seen me”. Everyone (VW Vortex, Golfmk7, reddit / r / golfr, etc.) agrees on this subject, except your columnist… You only have to look in the cars a little bit to see what I’m saying.
Jean-Francois P.
You are entitled to your opinion, but the columnist expresses his based on facts. At the risk of offending you once again, I would point out that Canadian owners of the R are on average 39 years old. Those who buy a GTi are on average 41 years old. Source ? Maritz NVCS, October 2018 to September 2021. Data corroborated by Volkswagen Canada management. Among other data from this same study: R customers are recruited mainly from millennials (43%) and Generation X (33%). In addition, R buyers have a higher family income (by 30%) compared to GTi owners.
An opinion on the Infiniti
JOHN MURPHY PHOTO, SUPPLIED BY INFINITI
Infiniti q50
I would like to know your opinion on the Infiniti Q50 (Red Sport) in terms of reliability. I just did the test drive. Power, handling, comfort… I like everything about this car. I go back to the dealership to test the less powerful version (although reasonable at 300 hp) to see if it gives as much pleasure to drive as its big sister. I keep my cars for a very long time. As proof, I drive a 2008 Saab 9-5 Aero and a 2014 370Z. What do you think of these Infiniti cars? What is there comparable?
Eddy B.
This is a good choice considering the proven reliability of this vehicle and its maintenance cost which is often more reasonable than that of the European competition. You could also consider the Lexus IS. It also offers above-average reliability and reasonable maintenance costs. The IS is however more comfortable, less sporty and equipped with a less powerful all-wheel drive than the Q50.
Service vehicle
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU
2014 Subaru Outback
I would like to have your opinion on the choice of a company vehicle. I am offered a 2022 Subaru Outback Limited or a 2022 AWD Nissan Rogue SV Premium (I read your test bench). I have no particular requirements, but appreciate driving pleasure, as far as possible with this type of vehicle, and storage, I have two baby benches. I will not pull a trailer or a boat.
Patrick L.
Considering your criteria, the Outback will bring you more satisfaction because of its more engaging drive and its more efficient full-time all-wheel drive.
Rent or buy?
PHOTO OLIVIER PONTBRIAND, ARCHIVES THE PRESS
I am thinking of getting an electric car in the next few months. With all the technological advances expected in the next few years, I wonder if it is not better to opt for a rental. What do you think ?
Lise D.
Our advice to this day remains to rent rather than buy because of the many advances made by manufacturers in the field of electrification.