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The Kia Sorento is a crossover vehicle that offers a two-row, five-passenger seating option or a three-row, seven-passenger seating option. The 2018 model has three engines to choose from, and it comes in five trim levels. Depending on the trim, there are also several luxury add-ons available. Out of the five trims, which Kia Sorento do you need? L The base-level Kia Sorento L model starts things off with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It has 17-inch alloy wheels, front-wheel drive, and a selectable drive mode system. Inside, you'll get cloth upholstery and a second-row seat with a 40/20/40 split. Technology includes Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and satellite radio, along with a USB port, and it comes standard with a rearview camera. LX A step up to the LX gets you the same four-cylinder engine, with the option for a larger V-6. This 2.0-liter gets 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque and comes standard with front-wheel drive. If you opt for the V-6, you'll get a third-row seat and you can also get all-wheel drive. The LX adds roof rails, two additional USB ports, a noise-reducing windshield, and the option for advanced safety systems, such as forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. EX The EX trim adds 18-inch wheels, fog lights, and a hands-free liftgate. It also adds heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable passenger seat. This model comes standard with the 2.0-liter turbo V-6 with the option for a 3.3-liter V-6 that gets 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. You'll get a 7-inch touchscreen display and UVO infotainment system in this trim, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX trim package also comes with an option for advanced safety systems. Additional options include a panoramic sunroof, a 110-volt power outlet, and LED interior lighting. SX The SX also comes standard with the 2.0-liter V-6 and adds 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and LED running lights. Inside, it upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen with a navigation system, and it has a 10-speaker Infinity stereo system. This trim also adds a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, driver-seat memory settings, and automatic wipers. The optional advanced technology package adds the advanced safety features from the EX's package plus a heated steering wheel, xenon headlights, and ventilated front seats. SX Limited The top-of-the-line SX Limited comes standard with 19-inch chrome wheels, heated second row seats, and higher-end leather upholstery. Inside, it also has a wood-trim steering wheel, and all the features of the advanced technology package. Each of the 2018 Sorento's trims has something to offer. You can choose one of the entry-level trims and get plenty of convenience and technology features, or upgrade and get all the extras, plus upgraded leather and luxury additions. Image via Flickr by crash71100

Heading out on the road in a Kia is more than just a ride; it is an experience. The UVO infotainment system allows drivers and passengers to stay connected and entertained and receive services to help keep them safe. The UVO system uses one single interface for all its telematics and infotainment systems to make it convenient and easy to use. Here are some of the system's best features and what it can do for you. Communications The UVO system uses advanced voice recognition so you can make calls while keeping both hands on the wheel. If you have an iPhone, the system will also allow you to send hands-free texts using the voice commands. UVO is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to use your favorite apps while in the car. Your Personal Assistant The UVO eServices system offers several services to help you, including Parking Minder, which allows drivers to save parking spot locations on their phone, and it can save parking times and send reminders for feeding meters. Using eServices, you can add places to your app and sync them with your Kia for turn-by-turn directions, and get trip information to track your driving habits. Car Diagnostics Make sure your Kia is always in good working order using the vehicle diagnostics feature. Run a diagnostics check from your phone or computer, or call roadside assistance right from the UVO system for immediate help when you need it. You can also use the app to schedule regular service. The critical diagnostic alert will send you an alert if any critical issues occur with your Kia. My Car Zone Keep your teen drivers or secondary drivers safer and on track with My Car Zone. This system features Curfew Alert, which will send a notification to your phone when the car is out on the road after the time that you set. It will also send you an alert when the Kia goes over certain speed limits that you set. Geofence Alert allows you to keep your teen driver within a certain boundary. If the driver breaks through the set parameters, you'll get an alert on your phone. UVO eco The UVO eco suite offers extra features for alternative fuel car owners. The system includes charging status control so you can check remotely from your phone, tablet, or computer to see if your vehicle is finished charging, and it will also let you know where to find the nearest charging station. Set charging schedules using UVO eco to charge up your Kia when it's convenient for you or when the electric rates are lower. You can also use this system to remotely start your Kia and set the climate, so the temperature is perfect by the time you get in. Kia's UVO system offers many features and services to make your ride fun, comfortable, and convenient. It will even help you in an emergency on the road and keep your teen driver safer. Image via Flickr by GNZLZ

One of the most important responsibilities of owning a car is upkeep and maintenance. And when it comes time to get your Kia serviced, the best place to head is your Kia dealership. There are many good reasons to bring it to your dealer's service department instead of an independent mechanic, whether it is for repairs or regularly scheduled maintenance. Kia Warranty Kia offers some of the best warranties in the industry, and while taking your Kia to an independent mechanic won't void your warranty, you might not get the full benefit of what it covers. The folks at your Kia service department will know exactly what is under warranty, so you don't have to pay for covered repairs. Specially Trained Staff All the mechanics at Kia dealers go through specialized training designed for Kia vehicles. Since almost all the cars that they work on throughout the day are Kias, they know exactly what to expect in nearly every situation. The mechanics at your Kia dealer know all the ins and outs of every Kia vehicle from compacts, to SUVs, and hybrids, and they have the training and the knowledge to get the job done right. The dealers also have access to daily bulletins from the manufacturer about Kia's vehicles, so they always have the latest and greatest information. Maintenance Records There are a lot of ways to keep track of maintenance done on your Kia, whether it is on your phone or saving and filing away all the paperwork. But if you bring it to your dealership, they will keep track of everything for you. You don't have to worry about keeping the paperwork for each oil change or service trip, because the Kia dealership will have all this in their records. Then, when you decide to sell your car or upgrade, you have easy access to all the information a potential buyer will want to see. Diagnostic Tools There are many good mechanics out there, but they might not have access to the tools needed to diagnose some of the more complex issues on newer cars. When you bring your vehicle to your Kia dealership, you know that they have the latest equipment and tools needed for any repairs or service. It is also more likely that a Kia service department will have any parts needed right on hand so you won't have to wait. Customer Service The larger service department at your Kia dealership most likely has more perks available to you while you wait for your car, or it might even have a shuttle service to bring you home or to work. Most smaller mechanic shops don't offer this kind of service, so you have to plan for someone to help you get around while your car is out of commission. These are some of the many benefits of using your Kia dealership's service department for all your repairs and maintenance. Image via Flickr by GNZLZ

Road trips are a great way to visit new parts of the country and spend time with family and friends. The key to a successful trip is preparation, including getting your vehicle ready. Follow these tips when preparing your car for road trips to help prevent problems on the road. Check the Tires Tires are an essential part of your vehicle when it comes to keeping you safe. Before heading out on the road, there are a few areas you should check on the tires. First, make sure the tire pressure is at the recommended PSI. You can usually find this on a label inside the car door or in your vehicle's owners manual. Make sure to use a good-quality pressure gauge or have it checked by a mechanic. Also, make sure to check the tread on your tires. You can do this on your by using the penny test, or by bringing the car to your mechanic and having them check it. If the tread is low, get new tires before hitting the road. Measure Fluids Always make sure to check the oil before driving any long distance. If the oil is low and you run out while on the road, it can cause significant damage to the engine and bring your road trip to a halt. Other fluids to check include coolant, windshield wiper fluid, radiator fluid, and brake fluid. Test Light Bulbs Make sure to test all the exterior light bulbs before your trip and replace any that are not working. Having a headlight out is a sure way to get pulled over if you travel after dark, and you don't want to put a damper on your trip. To check the lights, turn the car on, make sure the car is in park, and then switch the lights on. Walk around the car to check all the lights, and then turn on both the left and right turn signals to make sure they are working. Have someone stand behind the car while you press the brake to check the brake lights. Check the Battery Another important item to check is the battery. You should check to make sure it has a strong charge, and check all the terminals for corrosion. It is also a good idea to check the wires to make sure there are no worn spots that could cause sparks. While you are near the battery, check the air filter. If it is dirty, change it and your car will drive more efficiently. Pack Essentials If you have a first-aid kit in the car, make sure to check it to make sure it has everything you need. You should also keep an emergency kit in the car that contains tools for emergency roadside repairs, jumper cables, a jack, and flares. The kit should also have a working flashlight with new batteries, and some extras just in case. Follow these tips to get your car road-trip ready so you can enjoy the ride. Image via Flickr by Liamfm

With the popularity of SUVs and crossovers, it's easy to forget about subcompact vehicles. However, subcompact vehicles have a strong niche in the car market, garnering a decent percentage of car sales. According to Car and Driver, the Kia Rio was Kia's best-selling car around the world in 2017, and US News ranks it as the number two subcompact vehicle. The 2018 Kia Rio has been redesigned to keep the vehicle's popularity up. It is offered in three models — the LX, S, and EX. Here are some of the surprising and exciting features of the 2018 edition. Engine Performance The 2018 Kia Rio has a 1.6 L inline-4 engine. The four-cylinders offer 130 horsepower and 119 foot-pounds of torque. It may not sound like much horsepower, but given the size and weight of the Rio, it zips along just fine. This also helps increase fuel efficiency. The engine is also more silent, and vibration is lower than prior model years. Wind and tire noise are present on the highway but manageable. The 2018 model comes in a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission, but it's expected that a majority of purchasers will opt for the automatic transmission. Updated Interior The 2018 Rio offers standard upholstery with tricot and woven cloth seats and trim. The trim on the Rio EX is more luxurious, and some reviewers note it feels like it belongs in a more expensive vehicle. The EX also has optional leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The driver's seat is adjustable and helps add extra room for passengers sitting in the back seats. If you need to transport extra stuff, you'll like the new wider trunk. The back seats fold down to offer additional storage as well. Enhanced Technology The 2017 model had decent technology, and the 2018 Rio has even more features, putting it near the top of the compact class. There is a 7-inch touch-screen display, providing quick access to entertainment, climate control, and navigation. The new Rio also has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These allow you to connect your phone into the Rio's main unit where you can sync your phone and bring up your playlist, listen to a podcast, check navigation, and more. Driving Assistance and Safety Features One of the most important features is the Rio's safety upgrades. Advanced safety features in the 2018 model are vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist control. It also offers standard autonomous emergency braking. This helps prevent accidents by automatically applying the brakes when the vehicle senses something in its path at an unsafe speed. Standard anti-lock brakes help with hard stops in emergency situations, even in the rain. If you're in the market for a new Kia, consider the 2018 Kia Rio. With gas prices on the rise, the Rio offers some savings with its improved fuel efficiency. With added safety features, the Rio can assuage your fears of sub-compact vehicles. And, with the Rio's affordable price and advanced technology features, the Rio has a strong appeal. Image by JESHOOTScom, used under CCO 1.0

A car can be a large expense, especially for a growing family. Between fuel, car payments, insurance costs, repairs, and maintenance, the costs of owning a vehicle can add up quickly. The number exponentially goes up when you considering the purchase and maintenance of two. These expenses have many families asking the question, could they possibly survive with having only one family vehicle? To help determine whether you can become a one car family, consider the questions listed below. more What Are Your Weekly Transport Needs? The most important part of determining whether or not you could make due with one vehicle is determining your average weekly travel needs. Things to take into consideration are: Do you need to take your children to school or daycare? Do one or both of you need to get to and from work? Is altering the schedule to share a car feasible? The last question may be one of the most important. With some families having two working parents, it is essential to make sure your work schedules can be altered to accommodate shared rides before you make the commitment to one vehicle. Are There Viable Public or Co-Transportation Options? Many people do not make this assessment in the area where they live until they are forced to, and many are surprised by what they find. If you live in a larger city, you may want to investigate the feasibility of utilizing public transportation for work. If you live in smaller areas, you might want to find out if there are any ride share programs or co-transportation options for school drop-offs or transportation to work. If you employ a sitter, you might want to ask what they would charge for using their vehicle for transporting children or running any necessary errands. Do You Have an Emergency Backup Plan? When depending on one vehicle for all of your family's transportation needs, it is important to have a backup plan in the event your vehicle is in the shop or involved in an accident. This could be as simple as having a family member willing to help or loan you a car if you have an emergency to having rental reimbursement on your insurance policy. What Are the Total Costs of Operating a Second Vehicle? Before ruling out having a second family vehicle, you may want to drill down on the costs the second vehicle will incur. Determine what type of vehicle you would purchase for a second car and the costs for fuel, insurance, maintenance, and basic repair. Calculate this on a monthly basis and see how it might fit in your budget. If it is not too much of a stretch to your monthly income, you may find that the cost is worth the added convenience. When considering the calculations, you may also want to determine any additional costs for running the first vehicle for all errands. The extra mileage and wear on the vehicle may cause more frequent maintenance and repair. Image by DomAlberts, used under CCO 1.0

When Kia made a bold move into the eco-friendly realm of electric cars, they quickly established themselves as contenders in the field. This year they have built on that success with the release of the 2018 Kia Niro plug-in hybrid. The Niro comes in a dynamic and practical package and has the benefit of being faster than the average hybrid, and gives the Prius Prime a run for its money. The updated plug-in Niro boasts an impressive 8.9 kWh battery, considerably larger compared to the 1.6 kWh of its predecessor. In addition, it has a more powerful electronic motor with 60 horsepower that enables it to run on electric power alone more often. A full charge will get you 26 miles before you need to fire up the Atkinson-cycle 1.6-liter inline-four engine. Keep reading to learn more about the exciting features of the 2018 Niro. Increased Power The new plug-in Niro piles on the pounds, with extra hardware increasing the weight by 177 lbs compared to the standard Niro. Although it only carries the same combined torque and power of  95 lb-feet and 139 horsepower, it's still 0.6 seconds faster when going from 0 to 60 mph even with the extra weight. more The additional speed is provided by the new and more powerful electronic motor, which has also improved the dynamic character of the Niro. While hybrids can often feel a little insubstantial, and the original Niro certainly has a delicate quality, the plug-in offers all the great features of the original while feeling considerably more stable. The extra stability makes it more suited for rougher roads, ensuring the car's grip in no way suffers for its eco-friendly Michelin Energy Saver A/S tires, which further enhance the car's green credentials. The Niro's six-speed dual-clutch automatic effortlessly blends power from both the electronic motor and gas engine, offering a charge-sustaining mode that ensures you get the most mileage from your charge. In addition to impressive performance, you will find the engine avoids one of the pitfalls of hybrids using variable automatic transmissions and lacks the annoying droning that can present at high-rpm in other hybrid cars. Impressive Exterior While technical specs of the Niro plug-in are certainly pushing boundaries, the appearance of the car is just as innovative. A bold new design brings a wider stance to the new Niro, supported by a strong construction of high-strength steel that ensures this little car can handle all but the toughest roads. Sleek lines give the new Niro a sanguine and somewhat sporty appearance, as well as upscale good looks. The body design is accented by bright, crisp LED lighting that's both effective and energy efficient, and angled to cut a dashing impression day or night. Add to this an aerodynamic shape that's designed to maximize efficiency and the Niro is a compact car with stunning looks and high performance. Luxurious Interior The interior of the new Niro is equally luxurious, with a carefully-crafted space designed to make the most of every inch. Comfortable and versatile with customizable driver features, the Niro has an impressively large cargo area with a cargo cover to protect your belongings. If you're looking for a powerful car that's as eco-friendly as possible while not relying entirely on an electric charge, the Niro is a beautiful option with a lot of great features. Image by makamuki0, used under CCO 1.0

With key safety features including front and rear head and front side airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as 4-Wheel ABS, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, and Brake Assist, it's easy to see why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2018 Kia Sorento a 5-star rating. The new model also received a Superior rating for front crash prevention from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), as well as Good ratings across the board on crash-worthiness. Other safety features of the new Kia include: Electronic Stability Control Child Safety Locks Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors Traction Control But there are few key aspects of the new model that really make it a safe ride, so here's a rundown of the top four essential safety features of the 2018 Sorento. more Active Handling Advanced active safety systems give you enhanced control using Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which offers precise handling, and added brake support from the Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC). These safety features allow the Sorento to constantly track and adapt to current driving conditions, taking the pressure off of you and allowing you to simply enjoy the ride. Advanced Control Control is a major feature of the Sorento, with the ESC keeping you on the right course as the Traction Control System (TCS) ensures you don't experience wheel spin. In addition, the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models of the Sorento come with Torque Vectoring Corner Control (TVCC) that gives you enhanced stability and control when cornering. Powerful Braking Another excellent safety feature of the Sorento is the advanced braking system, which provides improved efficiency. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) effortlessly adjusts the braking at both the front and rear, depending on the load in the car. In addition, the Brake Assist System (BAS) is able to sense emergency braking situations, responding by boosting braking pressure whenever it's needed. Meanwhile, the HAC also works to keep your car in place during acceleration from a stopped position on inclines. Passive Systems As well as the active safety features, the Sorento comes with several excellent passive systems that will protect you in the event an accident does occur. The body of the car is crafted from advanced high-strength steel (53 percent), offering maximum protection. Structurally the car has been build using patented construction techniques, as well as industrial-strength adhesives, and a highly-advanced body designed for maximum rigidity. An advanced airbag system includes sensors capable of detecting impact levels while determining if there is a front passenger, to ensure airbag inflation is perfectly managed according to the occupants of the car and severity of the incident. Height-adjustable seat-belt anchors at the front ensure the perfect fit, while pretensioners are able to tighten the seat belts during certain types of collision. Children are equally secure with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, allowing you to safely install child seats. Overall the 2018 Kia Sorento is an excellent choice for safety, with powerful modern features and a keen eye for detail to keep you and your family safe, come what may. Image by DomAlberts, used under CCO 1.0

Everyone needs to escape the city occasionally, walk in the wilds for while, recharge, and get some fresh air and sunshine. There are a surprising number of beautiful trails near Houston providing you with ample opportunities to get back to nature. Here are our picks for the five best hikes in the Houston area. Karankawa And Armand Bayou Martyn Trails One of the best hiking spots in Houston is the Karankawa and Armand Bayou Martyn trails, which boast more than five miles of adventure. Explore all the ecosystems Houston has to offer, from the forest to the prairie and bayou. While you're out there, don't miss the stunning beauty of the prairie's wildflowers. more Bay Area Park At the southeast end of downtown Houston, you will find Bay Area Park, a great spot to get away without going too far. Flagstone trails through the woodland offer beautiful views of the Armand Bayou, while the gazebo and Oasis garden provides the perfect place to sit, relax, read a book, or simply take in the stunning scenery. Turn your visit into a day trip by bringing a picnic to enjoy by the duck pond. Brazos Bend State Park With 4,897-acres of state park just a short drive to the southwest of the city, it's well worth a trip out to Needville. The park is adjacent to Elm Lake as well as 40 Acre Lake, providing both woodland and water to enjoy. It's a great place for a good hike, with a 15.8-mile loop trail. Keep an eye out for the many different species of birds that thrive in the park's wetlands, and enjoy the sounds of nature all around you. The park is also dog-friendly (although your canine companion will need to stay on their leash). Challenger Seven Memorial Park A relatively small but beautiful spot on the southeast edge of town, Challenger Seven Memorial Park was named for the brave astronauts who lost their lives in the Challenger disaster of 1986. It has 326 acres of gorgeous green, including nature trails, and offers one of the best spots for hiking inside the city. Pavilions overlooking the water offer a relaxing spot to sit and enjoy the view or spend time with family and friends. Beautiful, large trees provide plenty of shade for escaping from the heat. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center Offering both special events and nine trails that allow you to embark on a self-guided adventure, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a great spot. Don't miss the Outer Loop trail offering two miles of beautiful walking and space for peaceful reflection, and the multi-sensory 1/3 mile Palmetto trail which is perfect for kids and a little sightseeing. Observation decks provide great places for watching wildlife, including small mammals, birds, turtles, fish, bullfrogs, and more. With so many beautiful hiking spots in and around Houston, there's no reason you can't spend at least a little time in the great outdoors every day. Image by Free-Photos, used under CCO 1.0

If you are looking for a hybrid SUV this year, look no further than the 2018 Kia Niro. Voted as Green Car Journal's 2018 Green SUV of the Year, this crossover is versatile, economical, and fun to drive. The features that contributed to the Niro being named Green SUV of the Year include the full parallel hybrid system, the dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the regenerative braking system. When working together, these features provide superior fuel economy for the Niro, which might be the best feature of all. more Full Parallel Hybrid System Using a full parallel hybrid system, the 2018 Niro has a powerful lithium-ion battery and a hybrid optimized engine with a lightweight electric motor. These components work together to create a fuel-efficient vehicle that offers a smooth and reliable ride. The electric motor is energy-dense, offering 1.56 kWh of power when paired with the lithium-ion battery. The gas engine is a four-cylinder and is a 1.6L engine with gasoline-direct injection. The electric motor has 43 horsepower while the gas engine has 104 horsepower. When they are combined, the electric motor and gas engine offer 139 horsepower, so you still get an exciting, sporty feel when driving. Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission The six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) offers both efficiency and fun to drivers of the Niro. With a dual clutch, the transmission has two clutch packs; one for even gears and one for odd ones. With two clutch packs, you get a smooth transition of power between the gears, saving energy in between shifts. With the dual-clutch transmission, you get the fun-to-drive feel of an SUV with the impressive efficiency of a hybrid. Regenerative Braking System In addition to the full parallel hybrid system and dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Niro also has a regenerative braking system that contributes to its fuel efficiency. The regenerative braking system can recharge the lithium-ion battery while you are driving. The way the system works is by taking all the kinetic energy that comes from the vehicle when you use the brakes to slow down and transferring it to the battery. Just by driving you can recharge the battery and give yourself extra mileage to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Superior Fuel Economy The 2018 Kia Niro offers excellent fuel economy as an SUV. With the combination of the full parallel hybrid system, the dual-clutch automatic transmission, and regenerative braking system, the Niro gets an estimated 52 miles per gallon in the city and 49 miles per gallon on the highway. Competing vehicles in the same segment range from 26 to 34 miles per gallon in the city and 28 to 30 miles per gallon on the highway, so there is a significant difference. As the 2018 Green SUV of the Year, the Kia Niro delivers on fuel efficiency while also providing a fun ride to its passengers. If you are looking for an SUV that leaves a smaller environmental footprint, be sure to schedule a test drive at Gay Family Kia today. This photo, “ Da Parigi, ecco Kia Niro, I’utilitaria ecologica per famiglie,” by Automobile Italia used under CC BY 2.0. “Da Parigi, ecco Kia Niro, I’utilitaria ecologica per famiglie” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

It seems like everyone is trying to reduce their carbon footprint. Greenhouse gases are melting the polar ice caps and punching a hole in our planet's ozone, and we're all trying to do our part to stop it. That's why an eco-friendly Kia makes sense. It will not only save you a tremendous amount of money on gas, but it's good for the environment too. We at Gay Family Kia care about our customers as much as we care about the planet. So here are four good questions to ask when trying to choose an eco-friendly Kia. more What's the Difference Between an Electric Vehicle and a Hybrid? An electric vehicle is 100 percent electric and doesn't require any gas. You just charge it and go, but if you don't charge it, you can't go anywhere. With a hybrid electric vehicle, there is no plug. Both the gas engine and electric motor work together to provide more efficient power. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle operates on both gas and electricity. You have the option of using either one as its source of power. Which Model Is Right for Me? The first thing to ask yourself is if you think you'll ever go on long road trips. If so, you should think about going with a hybrid model, because there might not be charging stations available in some areas along the way. The United States now has over 16,000 public electric car charging stations, but still many of them are concentrated in urban areas. The Kia Soul EV has ample cargo space, so it is a good choice for those who are sports minded. The Optima Hybrid is the most popular for good reason — it has stylish lines and outstanding features, like push-button start and surround sound, that make it a dream to drive. The Niro is fun to drive, has a lot of cargo space, and is good for those with an active lifestyle. Will I Get an Income Tax Credit? You should check with your accountant or CPA to be sure, but most all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars purchased after 2010 are generally eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500. You should also check with local agencies to see if you qualify for other benefits and incentives, like free parking or free charging. Some cities even allow single-occupant HOV lane access for hybrids or electric vehicles. Where Can I Get One? We're glad you asked, because that's why we're here. We are happy to show you all the different models and help you determine which one is right for you and your family. As you can see, there's a lot to consider and we know it can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming, but we can help simplify it all for you. The lower emissions and savings in gas are just the beginning. Once you drive one of these fine vehicles, you'll fall in love with the style and smooth ride. Soon you might even have one of your own. This photo, " 2017 Kia Niro: A New Hybrid Hero,” by Automotive Rhythms used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.o. " 2017 Kia Niro: A New Hybrid Hero " is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

The 2018 Stinger is the current-year model of Kia's high-performance vehicle. Taking the production quality of a Kia vehicle and adding a commanding engine means there's plenty to love about this car. Take a closer look at the power, interior features, exterior specs, and other things that make the Stinger a phenomenal luxury vehicle. more Record-Setting Acceleration and Power The Stinger is wonderfully powerful and has topped the 0-60 time of many other models in its class. The Stinger gets up to 60 in 4.7 seconds, which beats the BMW 440i Gran Coupe, Porsche Panamera RWD, BMW 640i Gran Coupe, and Audi A5 Sportback. The Kia Stinger achieves this while delivering up to 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. A Choice of Two Turbocharged Engines Drivers can build a Stinger with one of two engine options: a twin scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a twin turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter gets 255 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and the 3.3-liter gets 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. A Choice of Five Trims The 2018 Stinger is highly customizable for drivers who want to build one of these vehicles from the ground up. This starts with one of five trims: 2.0L, Premium, GT, GT1, and GT2. The 2.0-liter engine is exclusive to the 2.0L and the Premium. The other trims get the 3.3-liter V-6. The GT2 comes standard with a limited-slip differential — optional on the GT — and all vehicles can add an all-wheel drive transfer control case and dynamic torque vectoring control. In addition, drivers can purchase an optional package when building their new Stingers. The Kia Drive Wise Package, for instance, adds several advanced safety technologies, such as forward collision avoidance and lane keep assist, as well as convenience features like rain sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers. An Incredible Exterior One of the first things you'll notice about the new Stinger is its incredible exterior. It has a sleek frame, with the GT, GT1, and GT2 distinguishable by the GT front grille, hood trim, rear bumper, black chrome exterior accents, and body color door handles. The GT2 also gets an exclusive smart power trunk, and the Premium, GT1, and GT2 get a sunroof with a power sunshade. The Stinger is also technically a hatchback, which adds to the unique look of the vehicle. A Plethora of Safety Features Drivers of the 2018 Stinger will enjoy incredible peace of mind behind the wheel. In addition to a comprehensive airbag system, all Stingers have cornering brake control, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Advanced technologies such as forward collision avoidance assist, a forward collision warning system, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, driver attention warning, and high beam assist are available through an optional package. The 2018 Kia Stinger is an eye-catching vehicle, but there's lots more to love other than its looks. With a starting MSRP of just $31,900, this powerful car is an affordable option for many drivers. Check one out in person to see how excellent this luxury vehicle is on the road. This photo, " Kia Stinger, eccola berlina coreana con una spruzzata di GT," by automobileitalia, used under CC BY 2.o. "Kia Stinger, eccola berlina coreana con una spruzzata di GT" is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.