The automobile in question | The Press

Our collaborator answers your questions.

Posted at 11:45 a.m.

Eric LeFrancois

Eric LeFrancois
special cooperation

money matter

Q: I am about to order a 2023 Lexus IS 350 AWD. I have a choice between the F Sport 2 and the F Sport 3 version. The asking price for this option is $5800. In your experience, are the benefits worth it? I do between 10,000 and 12,000 km per year. This Lexus will replace my 2014 Lexus IS 350 AWD which currently has 102,000 km on the clock and which I am completely satisfied with. — Alan L.

A: Let’s not beat around the bush, this option is not worth it. Especially since none of the accessories in this set will allow you to recover part of your money at the time of resale.

$10,000 Question


PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA CANADA

Toyota Venza

Q: Besides the fact that Lexus offers a luxury label and service accordingly, looking at the hybrid powertrain between the new Venza (since 2021) and the RX 350 h […], is the price difference justifiable? — Benoit T.

A: Your arguments are very reasoned, but to establish a fairer comparison, it is better to compare the Lexus NX 350 h ($49,900) to the Venza ($39,150). The RX is more massive and compares more to a Highlander (Toyota) than to a Venza. That said, the NX offers greater versatility than the Venza, better soundproofing, a more generous warranty (4 years/80,000 km) and a higher resale value. In addition, the finish of Lexus is more polished, its infotainment system more modern and the vehicle is assembled in Canada. On the other hand, the Venza is more spacious. That said, to answer your original question, the gap isn’t justifiable, only if you go for the entry-level version of the Venza. If your choice stops on the XLE and Limited versions of the Venza, the NX from Lexus represents a smarter purchase.

Concentrated pleasure


PHOTO PROVIDED BY MAZDA CANADA

Mazda CX-30

Q: I’m looking for a fun-to-drive 2023 compact SUV. In the same price bracket, I hesitate between the Kicks SR Privilège, the Qashqai SV TI, the Corolla Cross LE AWD and the Mazda CX-30 GS. What do you recommend for the city and its snowbanks and the chalet from time to time? —Jade B.

A: Of all your choices, Mazda’s CX-30 GS is the most fun to drive. As a bonus, it offers a more refined presentation (quality of finish) and more efficient all-wheel drive than those of the models mentioned. On this subject, it is worth remembering that the drive mode of the Kicks is limited to two-wheel drive (at the front).

Little room for maneuver


PHOTO KOJI SASAHARA, ASSOCIATED PRESS ARCHIVES

Many Subarus awaiting transport at the port of Kawasaki, near Tokyo. It was in July 2019! Times have changed.

Q: In this period when new cars are scarce, is it still possible to negotiate the purchase price or to obtain certain bonus items (tires, maintenance, etc.)? I am about to sign the purchase of a Subaru reserved several months ago and I was wondering what my room for maneuver was. — Valerie B.

A: You will understand that in the current context (shortage of parts, accelerated transition to electric, transport and delivery problems, etc.), your room for maneuver is rather limited to a few free elements at best.


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