CULT FOLLOWING
Tesla Model 3 prices have come down to around $65,000 drive-away. I’ve never really considered an electric car, but my best mate owns one and adores it. I tested his and am slowly coming around, although I don’t want to be part of what seems like a weird Tesla cult. Can you save me from myself? Brandon Eccles, email
Maybe not. I wasn’t convinced about the Model 3 until I spent a week in one myself. Now I’m a convert. The entry-level Standard Range Plus has an electric range of about 500km, does 0-100km/ h in 5.6 seconds, handles well, is reasonably well equipped and has some very cool features. I know three people who own one and each speaks positively, although you’re right about the cult following. Depending on which State it’s registered, it’ll be $65-70,000 drive-away: cheaper than an entry-level BMW 3 Series. You’ll need a garage, though, and solar if you want to be guilt-free.
WRONG RON?
I’ve recently bought a 2021 RAV4 Hybrid and Toyota recommends 91 RON fuel. I drive a 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid at work and Toyota recommends 95 RON for this. I believe both cars use the same engine, so why the different fuels? Should I use 95 in my new RAV4?
Phil Lynagh, email
I would, but it’s not necessary. Orlando Rodriguez from Toyota Australia explains: “While they are the same base engine they have been tuned differently. This includes a number of differences to the exhaust, air intake and cooling architecture … which will affect the tuning of the engine and which fuel it has been designed for.”
NO RECALL
Last year we bought a Hyundai Tucson and I’m concerned about the model’s fire risk recall. I contacted my Hyundai dealer with the car’s identification but was told it’s not on the recall list. Even so, I’m concerned it will be in future. Affected cars should not be parked in garages, but I’m not happy leaving mine outside due to potential hail or theft.
Keith Pope, email
It’s understandable being concerned. I’ve spoken to Hyundai , and hopefully allaying your fears, if your vehicle is not on the recall list it has not been fitted with the problematic circuit board deemed a potential fire risk. The recall affects 93,572 Tucsons sold between November 1 2014 and November 30 2020. There have been fire instances overseas, but zero confirmed in Australia. You can rest easy. For those with affected Tucsons, it’s a matter of patience as Hyundai makes replacement parts for the huge demand.
STOP SHUDDERING
I have a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 AMG. Last year I noticed a disturbing shudder in the front end when turning at full lock at low speeds, such as coming out of a parking space. The dealer’s AMG specialist asked if it happens in warm weather – it doesn’t – and said it’s a known issue in cold and/or wet weather. I wonder why Mercedes finds this acceptable. Should I be concerned?
Peter Cox, email
I’ve experienced this exact same thing on a few AMGs I’ve tested. Call it juddering, skipping, crabbing or whatever, it’s quite disconcerting and has been reported globally by many owners. In 2017, Mercedes-Benz UK stated: “This characteristic comes from flexibility within the tyre sidewall,” and is “demonstratively more evident in colder temperatures due to the changes in the tyre rubber elasticity.” They promise the safety and performance of the vehicle isn’t affected. Owners have seen improvements with a steering knuckle replacement or different tyres.
OVER BOOKED
The owner’s manual with my Hyundai Tucson is incredibly thick and wordy. Why? The car has so many gadgets that working out how to best use them, or turn them off, is frustrating. It seems the author has no connection with the ordinary man just wanting simple-tounderstand instructions.
Paul Mackenzie, email
Rainforests have been devastated due to the size of these War and Peace owner’s manuals. There’s so much complexity in modern cars – infotainment, active safety, navigation, etc. – manuals run to hundreds of pages. Safety warnings abound, no doubt there to avoid product liability lawsuits. Some cars have manuals built in to the entertainment menu, or you can access it online. Me? I find YouTube tutorial clips are best.
EASE OF ENTRY
Re seat height, I have car entry problems and test drove six new SUVs. The Kia Stonic was impressive, but the Suzuki Vitara 1.4 Turbo blew me away with its comfort, performance and features. Easy entry height too.
Paul Ereira, email
Re seat height for those with mobility issues, my wife does home care and has found the best car for people with disabilities is the Subaru Outback. All her clients comment how easy it is to fall into the seat and easy to get out. Ian Gregory, email
Good advice. The Outback’s a great choice, but starts from $39,990 so will be out of many people’s budgets. The Vitara starts at $30,490.