Posted at 11:45 a.m.
For tomorrow
Q: A Toyota dealer told me that hybrid or plug-in vehicles were not necessarily the future and that hydrogen could break through and overtake them. What do you think ? —Patrick R.
A: The hybrid engine serves as a transition. The future will most certainly be electric, but hydrogen seems a very distant solution for manufacturers. A kind of plan B. Currently, the automotive industry’s efforts are focused on the electric vehicle.
Like my darling
PHOTO PROVIDED BY VOLVO
Volvo V60 Recharge
Q: I own a 2011 Mercedes C-300 that I have been completely satisfied with, to the point where I could have bought the same car again. On the other hand, since I retired, I find it a significant drawback: the trunk is often insufficient to fit my purchases from the garden center. My husband’s Jeep Cherokee, although not very comfortable, is so much more practical! This observation, added to the electric turn that is in the process of being imposed, has sown confusion in my mind… I am 71 years old. I bought my first car when I was 18, and several thereafter, since I exchanged them as soon as the warranty expired. But I’ve never been so bothered to choose: SUV or sedan? Essence ? Hybrid? Electric? I live in the Laurentians, I drive about 12,000 km per year, so fuel economy does not seem to me to be an important criterion and I do not see myself running to charging stations. I could, however, have one installed quite easily at my home. I like the comfort and handling of Mercedes and my budget is to match. Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated. — Claudine R.
A: Let’s sort this all out. If you have access to your husband’s vehicle and you probably don’t have to drive to the garden center every day, why bother with an SUV? Let’s assume then that you would like to have your own. As for the electric shift, you’re right, we’re there, and if fuel consumption doesn’t “seem to be an important criterion”, you’re probably concerned about the environment. Therefore, eliminate the all-petrol and move towards the hybrid (a nice transition) or towards the all-electric. If you opt for a hybrid the size of your Mercedes C-Class and if you plan to keep your vehicle for the duration of the warranty, you could think of a happy marriage between an SUV and a sedan: the Volvo V60 Recharge, a wagon. It is powered by a rechargeable hybrid engine. Undoubtedly the happiest choice.
Superfluous luxury
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MAZDA CANADA
Mazda CX-30
Q: I have a 2015 Mercedes GLA that I plan to change soon. I like it a lot, but I don’t need as much luxury in the future and would like to avoid premium petrol if possible, without going straight to electric. What do you think would be the model that most resembles the GLA in the circumstances? I’m thinking of the Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-3, Kia Kona, etc. I prefer all-wheel drive and I buy my used cars with always less than 50,000 km on the clock. — Vincent M.
A: The Crosstrek is interesting, but maybe you could consider Mazda’s CX-30. This one is more comfortable, quieter and more rewarding than the CX-3. And more fun to drive than the Subaru.
another shield
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENERAL MOTORS
Buick Encore GX
Q: I have a 2017 Buick Verano whose lease ends next month. I would like to replace it with the Encore GX. To read various reviews concerning this model, it is not recommended because of the 1.3 L turbo engine which is not efficient enough for this type of vehicle and which, in addition, is not very economical (average of 9 L per 100 km). I would like to have your opinion about this Buick, which at first glance seems very interesting. — Maxence C.
A: Some readers criticize us for this term, but the Encore GX does indeed appear “underpowered” compared to its rivals, which all have a more favorable power-to-weight ratio, faster acceleration or even more energetic revivals. But is this really what you are looking for? Compared to your current Verano, the Encore GX will take about a second longer to reach 100 km/h from a standing start. It’s not the end of the world, you will agree. Alright, so much for pure performance. As for consumption, the Encore GX consumes 8.6 L/100 km, which is essentially the same result as we obtained with the Escape equipped with the 1.5 L three-cylinder engine. of the overall experience? The Encore GX is an honest utility, pleasant to live with, properly soundproofed and offering user-friendly connectivity. In return, the suspension is firm and the direction timidly communicates the relief of the roadway. Other vehicles you might consider include the Kia Seltos and the Mazda CX-30.