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Protégez-Vous releases its 2008 Annual Automotive Guide

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Luc Gagné
Buying in the United States is no longer that profitable!

Montreal, Quebec - Buying a new vehicle South of the border is not as interesting as it was at the end of last year. That's basically what George Iny had to say during a press conference earlier this week as Éditions Protégez-Vous released their "Guide annuel Autos 2008".

George Iny (left), President of the APA and co-editor of the "Guide annuel Autos 2008", and Sylvain Masse, Director of Protégez-vous magazine.

According to Mr. Iny, co-editor of the publication and president of the Automobile Protection Association (APA), "new car sales took off again in January after manufacturers started offering lowered pricing on most of their models, not to mention lower interest rates on financing and leasing."

There's still a relative gap between Canadian and US prices. "However, for a vehicle under $30,000, which is what most consumers will buy, the potential savings do not justify all the efforts required to go across the border," claims Mr. Iny.

An in-depth analysis can be found in the latest annual guide from Éditions Protégez-vous, now in its 20th year.

A guide for buyers and current owners
In fact, George Iny considers this magazine as an extremely valuable tool for all motorists, whether they are looking to buy a new car or already own one.

"The section dedicated to used vehicles will be equally interesting for actual buyers and owners of 2001-2006 models," says the president of the APA.

Expect to find a specific description for each vehicle with a host of relevant information, particularly with regards to recalls, extended warranties, mechanical reliability and rust problems -- as observed by inspection specialists and other members of the APA throughout the years.

Shortage of winter tires
The 2008 edition of the annual guide takes a closer look at the anticipated winter tire shortage. The staff took into account the newly adopted Quebec law that will make winter tires mandatory starting next November.

Inside the guide, George Iny warns consumers of a possible winter tire shortage, especially with specific models like some SUVs.
Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists