Expert advice | The car is in questions

The last shot of gas

I've owned a Porsche Macan S since 2015 and want one last petrol car before moving to an electric car. I'm undecided between a BMW M3 Competition or a Volkswagen Golf R. I agree that they are two very different cars, but they have a common purpose. What do you think is the best option, because I want to keep it for about 10 years?

Jean Francois M.

Perhaps a better option would be to consider the BMW M2. This device is more flexible, more fun, less expensive to obtain and almost as fast as the M3. On the other hand, it only has two wheels, which makes it more difficult to use on roads with a low coefficient of stability. As long as the M2 isn't your primary car, you should consider it. It replaces an ideal fit between an M3 Competition and a Golf R. It doesn't feel like a hole in the back, but it also works on your vehicle's core at the core, so you don't have to worry about the speed of the six-cylinder engine. On-line ?

The right opportunity

I'm going to have to make the decision to replace my old 2007 Audi A3 that I love soon, but it's starting to show its age. Two events force my hand: the soon arrival of a fourth family member and an electronic malfunction in the Audi that makes travel risky. In my opinion, a used hybrid car (2019 or newer). It's not electric, it's too complicated in the city. Now the question: hybrid or plug-in hybrid? Models on my list: RAV4 Hybrid/Prime, Lexus NX 350/450, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Kia Sorento PHEV. I'm looking for a reliable and spacious model for the next 10 years. A father who remains confused by many options.

Martin C.

In theory, a plug-in hybrid emits half a gram of carbon dioxide₂ than the classic hybrid (non-rechargeable) engine and three times less than the conventional thermal model. But this feature is purely virtual. Some users charge their car only occasionally, or never at all, thus turning the batteries into dead weight. So, if an electric car is too complicated for you in the city, then you should prefer a cordless hybrid mechanism. In this case, may we suggest a Toyota Sienna (from 2021 model year) on your list? We know it's a pickup truck, but this vehicle will prove to be more practical than any vehicle you currently have on hand. Don't like this suggestion? In this case, the Lexus NX is definitely a reliable car and will likely always be under warranty. As for hybrids, the Outlander PHEV (more generous warranty) seems to be your best option.

Bad goal

I recently sold my 2017 Nissan Leaf because its range was no longer sufficient for my needs. I have enjoyed my 100% electric experience and would like to purchase a new electric vehicle in the spring of 2024. Aside from the wait time, I am concerned about the eventual resale value of this type of vehicle, considering the rapid advances in technology for these products. I'm afraid of buying an electric car that won't have any value in five or six years (if I want to sell it). In other words, should I wait until electric vehicle technology becomes more mature and stable before making a purchase? I could get a gasoline or hybrid car in the meantime. Note that this purchase will be for a second car, my first car was gasoline.

François M.

Your fear is completely justified, even if the residual value of electric cars continues to rise and rival the value of combustion-engined vehicles in many cases. It was said why wait? You liked your experience. So, know that this promises to be better due to the technological advancements that have been made since 2017. So, since you are prioritizing your gasoline car, why not consider a used electric car? Some are even eligible for a government grant.

Unwavering loyalty

I've always stayed loyal to the Toyota Camry because of its reliability and cabin space. The one I currently own is a 2012 model, in good condition, with 168,000 km on it. However, as I am losing mobility, I find it very low and have difficulty getting in and out. I'm looking for a new car for this year, very reliable, non-plug-in hybrid, a little high, with good interior space (height and width) for the driver. I mainly travel around the city.

Andre B.

If you've always loved Camry, there's a good chance you'll be part of the Toyota Crown. This is a spacious hybrid sedan. You probably won't have any problem getting in or out of the passenger compartment.