Le plein air, sans se ruiner
Q: I have a 2014 Kia Rio five-door that I love. Unfortunately, I need to switch to an all-wheel drive vehicle for a move to the mountains. If I could have the same model with all-wheel drive, I would be delighted, but small all-wheel drive cars are non-existent. I would like your advice, here is my situation: one adult, I drive less than 20,000 km per year. For me, a car serves to go from point A to point B when I can’t make the trip on foot. I try to avoid luxury, SUVs and frills. I could consider a new or used vehicle, the goal being to pay as little as possible for this negative expense. I keep my vehicles for a long time. I would like to sleep in my car during hikes and camping. – Marie-Josée L.
R: Indeed, small cars are not legion on the market. It’s a bit more massive, but the Subaru Impreza (also five-door) is probably the best buy for your needs.
Un manuel en français
Q: I purchased a 2023 Nissan Rogue. The instruction manual is in English only. I have always loved reading manuals to make the most of my new vehicle and use it wisely. What are my options or how could I get one? Is it normal that in Quebec, we only receive the manual in English? They certainly sell Rogues in France, their manual must be in French. – France Boivin
R: The Rogue, as we know it, is not distributed in France. That said, the owner’s manual also exists in French and we suggest that you contact your dealer or Nissan’s regional office in Quebec to obtain a copy.
Fausses économies
Q: I own a full-size Ford F-150 truck and a 25-foot Airstream trailer. The total weight is 7500 lbs. During our outings, our trips are 250 to 400 km per day. I would like to know if manufacturers will offer a plug-in hybrid full-size truck. For my part, when used with a recreational vehicle, the electric truck causes many inconveniences. – Normand B.
R: Currently, only Toyota’s Tundra is offered with a hybrid engine, but it is not rechargeable. We found that the fuel consumption of this vehicle, when tied to a load that is roughly equivalent to yours, was higher (around 4 L/100 km) than that observed with a truck with a gasoline engine.