The automobile in question | The Press

Our collaborator answers questions from readers

Sedan or SUV?

I’d like to get a used sedan with all-wheel-drive in the spring under $30,000 and low mileage. The models offered by manufacturers do not seem to be legion. The Audi A3 Quattro and the Subaru Impreza hatchback could have interested me, but their reliability sometimes seems questionable and their maintenance costs high. And what about their fuel consumption? For the past 20 years, Honda vehicles have lived up to my expectations, but their cars don’t offer all-wheel drive. Should I reconsider my decision and opt for an HR-V SUV instead?

Lucia F.

To answer your question, the fuel consumption of the two models is very similar. The Audi consumes an average of 7.8 L/100 km compared to 7.6 L/100 km for the Impreza under identical conditions, according to the EPA. As for your second question, difficult to answer insofar as you do not explain the reasons which lead you to an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Even though four-wheel-drive systems are more sophisticated than ever, they still result in higher fuel consumption. On the other hand, they prove to be an additional advantage (approximately 15%) in terms of active safety on a surface with a low coefficient of grip. That said, if you like Honda products and all-wheel drive is a non-negotiable criterion, you will indeed have to turn to the HR-V.

Crown or Corolla Cross

We own a 2008 Lexus ES350 that has covered 270,000 km to date. We are considering the possibility of replacing our current sedan with a car that is just as comfortable, quiet, with a pleasant interior and preferably a non-plug-in hybrid. Due to the lack of dealerships in Mauricie, I reluctantly rule out Lexus cars. To date, Toyota Cross Hybrid and Toyota Crown Hybrid are considered. However, since we have never driven an SUV, we have two questions. The first: will adapting to driving this vehicle be difficult, especially when getting into the SUV for my spouse and for me with legroom? The second: does this vehicle meet our comfort and soundproofing requirements? What do you think of the Toyota Crown? Could this vehicle whose seat will be raised be a good compromise? Is it reasonable to think that in this period of high interest in leasing, as far as possible, buying remains a preferred option for acquiring a new vehicle? We travel an average of 10,000 km per year.

Claude G.

Let’s settle your first question between the Crown and the Corolla Cross. The first will more closely match your criteria. Toyota does not present it as an SUV, but rather as a sedan. This model ensures the succession of the late Avalon. On the other hand, the Crown is a bit longer (127 mm) than your current Lexus, which is why we at Toyota still suggest that you take a look at the Venza. This one is slightly louder when accelerating than the Crown, but still shorter than your 114mm ES350. It is also less expensive and so far proven in terms of reliability. As for your question on financing, the purchase is to be preferred.

A little planning

We are a family of two adults, two children and we want a five passenger vehicle. Is it feasible within two years to tow my 3500 lb trailer with an affordable electric vehicle (maximum budget of $60,000)? If so, which manufacturer should I go to to put my signature on a waiting list?

Veronic B.

This will no doubt be feasible, but no electric vehicle currently meets your criteria. That said, Chevrolet has already indicated its intention to market a “Work Truck” version of its Silverado EV in the spring of 2024, starting at $52,448. This vehicle will be able to tow a maximum load of 8000 lbs. No doubt that Ford and Ram will also offer more financially accessible versions within two years.

A successor

Now that the General Motors (GM) Volt is no longer offered, is there another car that uses the principle of an electric motor with a generator? I think it’s the ideal solution and I don’t understand why GM buried the whole thing.

Richard G.

In short, GM has gone all-electric. On the other hand, the idea did not die on the soap opera and in a few months Mazda will offer the MX-30 with a range extender in the form of an 800 cc rotary engine.