Blog

The Kia Forte is a compact car praised for its fuel efficiency, competitive interior volume compared to other vehicles in its class, and more. But the EX trim in particular presents an excellent value for drivers. Check out some of the top features of the 2018 Forte EX that make it a great bargain, and test drive one at a local dealership when you get the chance. more Exclusive Features to the EX Trim The Forte EX is the premium option out of three trims: The LX, S, and EX. Though the EX has the highest MSRP — starting at $21,700 — it's also the only one that comes equipped with certain standard features and has access to select optional additions. For example, the EX is the only Forte that has dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear vents, and it's the only choice if you want advanced safety technologies such as blind spot detection as standard features. Drivers can also purchase the EX Premium Plus Package for this trim. Exclusive to the EX, this adds a power sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, high-intensity discharge projector beam headlights, and more to your new Forte. Fuel Efficiency and Performance The EX runs on a 2.0-liter DOCH 16-valve I-4 engine with a gasoline direct injection system. This powertrain is exclusive to the EX. You can build your EX as an ultra-low emission or a super ultra-low emissions vehicle. The former gets 167 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, and the latter gets 160 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle is only available as an electronically controlled six-speed automatic. The EX gets 25 miles per gallon in the city, 33 on the highway, and 28 combined. UVO Touch-Screen Display A 7-inch touch-screen display with UVO technology is a standard feature on the EX. The UVO system includes services such as roadside assistance, vehicle diagnostics, a parking minder, trip info, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You can further upgrade this feature through the EX Premium Plus Package, which adds UVO's voice command navigation system, an upgraded 7-inch color touch-screen display, and SiriusXM Traffic and HD Radio services. Advanced Safety Features The EX is the recommended choice if you want access to cutting-edge safety features. Though all Kias have modern systems like comprehensive airbag protection, vehicle stability management, hill start assist, and traction control, the EX is the only Forte that comes standard with: Blind spot detection Lane change assist Rear cross traffic alert If you upgrade with the premium package, you'll also enjoy access to autonomous emergency braking, a forward collision warning system, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The EX is also the only trim that comes standard with a smart key, push-button start, and immobilizer. The 2018 Forte is an efficient and responsive compact, and if you can upgrade to the EX, you certainly won't be disappointed. Try one out in person if you need more convincing, and work with a local dealer if you'd like to build your new Forte from the ground up. This image, " steering wheel logo," by littlemoresunshine, used under CC BY 2.0. "Steering wheel logo" is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

If you're just starting out and looking for your first new car purchase that offers plenty of style and an upscale cabin, consider the 2018 Kia Optima LX. This starting trim level of the mid-size sedan comes with plenty of technology and luxurious touches that make it a vehicle you will be proud to own. more Stylish Exterior The first thing you'll notice about the Kia Optima LX is that it has a stylish exterior. There's a gloss black front grille, solar control glass, and chrome exhaust tip. Take a closer look and you'll also discover it comes with plenty of convenient features. You'll enjoy power side mirrors that are heated and come with built-in turn signal indicators. You'll also get projector beam headlights that automatically turn on and off depending on the level of light outside. Impressive Technology If you're looking for some of the latest technology features, the Kia Optima LX has them. The infotainment system comes with a 7-inch touch-screen display that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With these features, you can send and receive texts, listen to your favorite music, access some of your favorite apps, and more. You'll also enjoy hands-free Bluetooth connectivity so you can keep your focus on the road. Excellent Safety Features The 2018 Kia Optima LX comes with plenty of standard safety features to give you more security behind the wheel. There's a rearview camera that offers a live image of what's behind your vehicle when you're in reverse. Additionally, the rear parking assist system gives you an audible warning if you get too close to an obstacle when you're backing up. The blind spot detection system provides a visual warning about vehicles in your blind spot, and lane change assist warns you about vehicles approaching you from behind. Comfortable Interior Climb inside the Optima LX and you'll find a comfortable interior built around your needs. The standard cloth seats come with a CleanTex treatment that gives you anti-static, anti-soil, and anti-bacterial protection. The steering wheel also lets you adjust the cruise control settings, take calls using your Bluetooth-enabled phone, adjust the volume of the radio, and change radio channels with built-in controls. Additionally, the dual 12-volt power outlets in the front let you and your passenger charge your mobile devices at the same time. Power and Efficiency in One The Kia Optima LX also comes with the performance you want in a mid-size sedan. Lift the hood and you'll find a 2.4-liter engine that offers up 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While this engine gives you the power to go, you can also keep cruising by gas stations with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Plus, with drive mode select, you can decide whether you want Normal, Eco, or Sport for your drive that day. When you're looking for that first new car purchase you can be proud of, turn to the stylish 2018 Kia Optima LX. This photo, " Kia Optima-0096,” by AutoweekUSA used under CC BY 2.o. " Traffic " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Kia's UVO eServices system offers some of the best features in entertainment, navigation, maintenance, safety, and security. It's available exclusively to Kia owners without a subscription and allows you to access its extensive suite of amenities via a display on the dashboard. If you're interested in learning more, here's a guide highlighting five things you'll love about the intuitive UVO eServices package. more 1. Entertainment With UVO's smartphone integration capability, you can easily connect to your iPhone or Android device and access select apps and features right on the display screen. You can make calls, send messages, open your music library via iTunes or Google Play Music, and find directions to points of interest. Many of these perks are available through hands-free and voice-activated controls. Another benefit of UVO is SiriusXM satellite radio, which makes it convenient to listen to all your favorite comedy, talk, news, entertainment, sports, and music channels without commercials. Kia owners also receive a three-month trial subscription to the Sirius All Access package, which includes more than 160 premium channels. Plus, you can listen to SiriusXM from the comfort of your home, computer, or mobile device, too. 2. Navigation Make the most of your next road trip with UVO's navigation systems. These include my POIs (Points of Interest), a feature that lets you pinpoint locations on Google Maps that you'd like to visit. Via the UVO eServices app, you can send these hotspots to the central system for future routing. Another handy tool is Trip Info, which lets you track your current routes, stops, and desired destinations. 3. Maintenance Kia owners can also appreciate the many maintenance features of UVO. For instance, the system offers reminders when it's time to schedule a service appointment and can run a diagnostics check with the touch of a button on the dash. The system will give you health reports and critical diagnostic alerts if there's a mechanical problem, and it can even call for roadside assistance. 4. Emergency Services UVO's roadside assistance is helpful when you run into an emergency situation as well. Whether your vehicle breaks down or you're involved in an accident, it can send your VIN and exact location to an operator if necessary. Should your air bag deploy following a collision, 911 Connect also works with an operator to get emergency services to your location. 5. Security We know it can be frustrating to locate your Kia in a crowded parking lot. Fortunately, Parking Minder is part of the UVO eServices suite and makes it easy to track your car's location using GPS via your smartphone. You can also employ Find My Car to keep tabs on your Kia when someone else asks to take it out for a spin, while Geo Fence alerts you if your car goes outside the predetermined area you've set in the UVO system. If you're shopping around for your next vehicle, consider test driving a Kia and exploring the exclusive features that are available with UVO eServices. Image by JESHOOTScom, used under CCO 1.0

Kia Motors Corporation is one of Korea's oldest vehicle manufacturing companies and is well-known for its stylish and sporty models. This year, we're highlighting some of the Kia models on the market that excel in categories such as comfort, styling, and overall performance. Here's a guide to five of the top award-winning Kia models for 2017. more 1. Kia Cadenza This sedan has been completely redesigned for the 2017 model year, and these updates have helped the Kia Cadenza earn the title of "Highest Ranked Large Car in Initial Quality" by J.D. Power. This means it has the fewest number of reported problems in its segment. It was also chosen as a 2017 Top Safety Pick+ recipient by the IIHS when equipped with features such as optional front crash prevention and LED lighting. Finally, the Kia Cadenza was selected as the best large car for families, thanks to its high ratings for safety and reliability, interior seating and cargo capacity, and family-friendly amenities. 2. Kia Soul Voted as the "Highest Ranked Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle in Initial Quality" by J.D. Power, the redesigned Kia Soul crossover beat out all other models in its class for this coveted title. In fact, this is the third year in a row the Kia Soul has been recognized for its fantastic performance in this category. Additionally, this year's model received an overall 8.8 (out of 10) consumer rating from Kelley Blue Book, including a 9.0 for comfort and 9.3 for reliability. 3. Kia Forte Next, we have the 2017 Kia Forte, which tops the compact car segment with its excellent performance ratings. These have helped it earn the "Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality" title by J.D. Power. However, Kelley Blue Book has also praised it for its superior quality, giving it an overall 8.9 consumer rating, including a 9.2 for comfort, 9.3 for styling, and 9.4 for reliability. 4. Kia Niro The Kia Niro made its debut in 2017 and has already received plenty of attention for its top performance. J.D. Power selected it as the "Highest Ranked Small SUV in Initial Quality," thanks to its five-star rating. It also raised the bar for quality by surpassing the small SUV segment average by an impressive 30 points, and it's one of only three models to earn an Initial Quality Study class award. 5. Kia Sorento The final Kia on this list is the 2017 Sorento. This crossover was voted by J.D. Power as the "Highest Ranked Midsize SUV in Initial Quality," and this is backed up by its low scores in eight problem categories as well as its high marks for reliability and design. Plus, Kelley Blue Book awarded the Sorento a 9.1 overall consumer rating, including a 9.5 for value and a 9.4 for performance, comfort, and styling. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, look no further than these five award-winning Kia models. Visit your local dealership to find out more about what makes them exceptional. This photo, " 2017 Kia Cadenza” by Automotive Rhythms used under CC BY 2.o. " 2017 Kia Cadenza " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Power steering is standard on all new cars these days. It makes the steering less stiff and turning effortless. While most of us enjoy the benefit of power steering, few understand how it works. Find out all about how this process functions. more How Steering Worked in the Past In a world before power steering, turning the steering wheel felt like driving an 18-wheeler truck and required arms of steel. Back then, cars used a simple rack and pinion system. The pinion is connected to a steering column that runs from the steering wheel down to the steering rack. When turning the steering wheel, the pinion rotates. This action causes the rack to move from side to side and turn the wheels. The only downside to the system was that it made steering heavy. This all changed when Chrysler pioneered hydraulically assisted steering in 1951, which revolutionized the automotive world. Hydraulic Power Steering In hydraulic-assisted steering, a rack and pinion or a steering box is still used but a power steering pump, torsion bar, and rotary valve are added. Power Steering Pump The power steering pump is the heart of the hydraulic system. It's driven by a belt attached to the engine. Inside the pump are rotary vanes that spin. As the vanes spin, they draw hydraulic fluid from the fluid reservoir, pressurize it and send it down into the steering rack. The steering rack then pushes this pressurized fluid against a hydraulic piston. This action moves the steering rack right or left in a way that requires a lot less muscle from the driver. Torsion Bar and Rotary Valve Power steering only kicks in when the system senses the wheel turning. A torsion bar and rotary valve control the amount of fluid that enters the system from the fluid reservoir. The top of the torsion bar connects to the steering wheel and the bottom connects to the pinion or worm gear. When the car isn't turning the valve remains closed, preventing fluid flowing into the steering gear. When you start to turn the wheel, the torsion bar senses this force. It starts to twist and rotates the rotary valve. As the valve turns, fluid flows into steering gear on the side that you want to turn. The pistons respond and the wheels start to turn. Electric Power Steering While hydraulic steering is still the most common type of power steering, electric steering is gaining ground. In Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), electric motors are placed either on the steering column or on the steering rack. Electronic sensors pick up the force and rotation speed being applied when turning the wheel. It responds by adding in a proportional amount of force to help turn the wheels. Many believe electric power steering is better than hydraulic. It doesn't run off the engine, making it a more efficient system that uses less gas. The desire for better power steering isn't over. Steer-by-wire is being touted as the way of the future. Its concept is based on video game steering wheels. It will eliminate mechanical steering linkage entirely and be controlled by sensors in the steering wheel. That, however, is a little further down the road. This photo, " Hands on the wheel” by Jimmy Liew used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.o. " Hands on the wheel " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Kia nailed it with the millennial generation when it launched the Soul in 2010. Was it the marketing campaign with those music-loving paw-tapping hamsters, the quirky boxy design, or the affordable price? What's clear is that Kia made a conscious decision to target the Soul at millennials, and they succeeded. That winning recipe continues in 2017. more It's a Crossover Crossovers are all the rage at the moment. The Soul is a subcompact crossover that's been voted the best in its class. It's not a grown-up SUV with all the bells and whistles but a small car with that SUV feel. This is one reason it's so popular with millennials. Hatchbacks are so last year. Crossovers are what everyone wants. Three Trims for Every Type of Millennial The Soul comes in three trims. The Base model, in manual or automatic, has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower output. The manual costs $16,100, ideal for younger millennials looking for value for money. If you prefer an automatic, you'll pay $1,600 more. The Plus (+) has a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic shifting. A 2.0-liter engine offers a bit more power. On the + you get extra features like cruise control with steering-mounted controls, rear-camera display, and automatic temperature control. A new turbocharged version called Exclaim (!) joins the 2017 lineup. This is exciting news for those wanting more oomph and snazzier styling. The ! features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a sport mode, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged direct injection engine that puts out 201 horsepower. The design is edgier with broader 18-inch wheels and red accents on the exterior. This follows through on the interior with orange stitching contrasting against black cloth and leather seats. Must-have Technology Millennials are a tech-savvy generation. They've been plugged into cell phones and PlayStations since they were kids. Driving around in a car from the 80s just won't work. The Soul meets the basic technology needs with a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, a USB port, and SiriusXM radio. For more features, move up to the + that has a five-inch color touch-screen and a navigation system. Since the first Soul, millennials loved that the speaker lights glow and pulse to the beat of the music. That cool feature remains an option for the + and ! trims. If you really can't exist without mobile phone connectivity, then the ! is for you. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a seven-inch infotainment system with voice-command functionality. The ! ups the game a bit more with supervision meter cluster with 4.3-inch color LCD display and push-button start. Spacious and Comfortable This may be a small car but it is deceptively large. The 40.9 inches of front legroom and 39.1 inches of rear legroom keep front and back passengers comfortable. As for cargo space — fold down the rear seats and you'll have 61.3 inches of cargo room. This means the Soul suits both the single college kid and the 30-year old parents with a small family. The Kia Soul is great bang for your buck and it's cute, spunky, and fun to drive. No wonder millennials and those street cool hip hamsters love it. This photo, " Souls” by Bill Smith used under CC BY 2.o. " Souls " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

If you're a recent college graduate, you'll probably have to deal with student loan payments, rent, utility bills, and many other expenses, along with the low pay that comes with an entry-level job. The Kia Optima is a midsize car with a low price and great fuel economy. It even has hybrid options and many features that are usually found only in more expensive vehicles. Here are some more reasons the Optima is optimal for recent college grads. more A Comfortable Interior The 2017 Kia Optima has a quiet, spacious cabin and a convenient touchscreen with satellite radio. Buttons on the steering wheel let drivers access many features, like Bluetooth and cruise control, easily. Keep all your electronics working with up to two 12-volt outlets and a USB port. You can also add two extra USB ports and an outlet in the back seat. Large dome lights on the driver's side and the passengers' side make finding random stuff under the seats at night easy. The 60/40 split folding rear seats make it easy to carry large items. It's like having the looks of a car and the cargo capacity of an SUV. Additional options include smartphone integration, heated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a 10-way adjustable passenger seat, a panoramic sunroof, and more. Great Performance and Fuel Efficiency The Kia Optima is fun to drive and it gets great mileage. The standard, 185-horsepower LX has a 2.4-liter engine, and it gets 25 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. The turbocharged, 178-horsepower LX 1.6T gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway. All the trim levels have direct injection, and a 6-speed automatic transmission is standard. The SX and the SX Limited offer 245 horsepower, but they both get 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. These are still good numbers, and you can enjoy exhilarating power. Lots of Safety Features The 2017 Kia Optima's advanced safety features will keep your parents from worrying too much when you're on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA gave it a 5-Star Crash Safety Rating. It has comprehensive airbags and high-tech systems to control airbag inflation. All seats come with three-point seatbelts, and the front seatbelts are height-adjustable for fit and comfort. The Traction Control System keeps the wheels from spinning during acceleration, and Vehicle Stability Management adds increased control in harsh conditions. The Optima also has Electronic Stability Control and Hill-Start Assist Control. The Brake Assist System increases braking when needed to prevent collisions, and it's made from more than 50 percent Advanced High-Strength Steel. Kia's College Graduate Incentive Program gives all college graduates a $400 discount on 2016, 2017, and 2018 models. You just need a copy of your diploma or a letter from your registrar's office saying you graduated in the last 12 months. The comfortable, inexpensive Optima is great for commuting. It offers a variety of options for everyone, from people with English degrees to medical school graduates. This photo, “ Kia Optima SXL 1,” by Zytonits used under CC BY-SA 2.o. “ Kia Optima SXL 1” is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

Proper car maintenance requires that you check your tire pressure regularly. Many newer cars offer a tire pressure monitoring system, but not all vehicles have this technology. It's important for your safety and for your vehicle that you ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires can lead to extremely dangerous situations on the road. more Increased Wear One of the most common reasons you want to ensure that your tires are properly inflated is to cut down on increased wear. When your tires are underinflated, more of the surface area of the tire is in contact with the road at all times. This leads to more wear on the tires, and in many instances can lead to the tires wearing out significantly faster than normal. This increased wear also leads to a higher failure rate of the tire than expected. When a tire fails due to low tire pressure, accidents happen on the road. Longer Stopping Distances Another danger you have to consider with underinflated tires is the stopping distance of your vehicle. When a tire doesn't have enough air pressure, it creates more friction. This friction can make it more difficult to get the car to a complete stop. In fact, low tire pressure can cause dangerously long stopping distances, which in the long run leads to crashes. To ensure that you have the best stopping distance possible on your car, ensure that your brakes are in good condition and the tires are properly inflated. Reduced Handling Along with all the other problems you'll have when you drive with underinflated tires, you'll also have to deal with reduced handling of the vehicle. Your tires don't react quite the way they should when they don't have enough air in them. Because of this, you're not able to maneuver the car right. This can lead to problems when trying to employ defensive driving techniques, issues making tight turns, and more. Overall, the trouble you have handling your vehicle due to low tire pressure is a significant safety concern, not only for yourself and those in your vehicle, but also for those around you. Severe Weather Conditions In addition to all of the other safety issues that arise when you drive with underinflated tires, your chance of experiencing an accident during severe weather conditions is greatly increased when your tires aren't properly inflated. Poor handling, increased wear, and longer stopping distances all come together to a deadly point when you add in standing water or ice on the roads, which makes all of these aspects more dangerous in the first place. Keeping your tire pressure in a good range is important. Check your owner's manual to ensure that you have your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure costs you more money at the pump since it affects gas mileage, and it can also be linked back to thousands of accidents a year. Taking proper care of your car helps keep you and those you love safe, so don't forget about your car's tire pressure. This photo, “ Kia K7 3.0 GDi,” by loubeat used under CC BY 2.0. “ Kia K7 3.0 GDi” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

If you're in the market for a crossover this year, then check out the redesigned Kia Niro. This vehicle offers a stylish interior and exterior, outstanding features, and the power and performance you're looking for in your next vehicle. Find out what makes this reimagined crossover one of the best options out there today. more Engine and Motor When you choose the 2017 Kia Niro you're getting a 1.6-liter I4 16-valve DOHC full parallel hybrid system engine. The engine itself offers 104 horsepower and 109 pound-feet of torque. However, the AC Synchronous Permanent Magnet electric motor offers an additional 43 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. The battery is a 240-volt, 1.56 kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery. In addition to all of this, you'll get a dual clutch six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic, giving you a fun and comfortable drive every time you get behind the wheel. Exterior The exterior of the Niro is stylish and bold. You'll get a variety of standard exterior features to help improve your drive, as well as the look of the car. For example, the Niro comes standard with a glossy black radiator grille with chrome trim, a rear spoiler, and body-color power exterior mirrors. Additional features and options are available, depending on the trim level you choose. You can get roof rails, a power sunroof, and high-intensity discharge projector beam headlights. Select up to seven exterior paint colors to ensure that you get the perfect vehicle for you and your family. Interior Inside the Niro, you'll find comfortable seating and outstanding tech features. The six-speaker audio system features a 7-inch color touch screen display, and this system supports Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and a large number of apps. Bluetooth Wireless connectivity is standard on all trim levels, and you'll also get steering wheel-mounted controls. Stay comfortable with the dual-zone automatic temperature control and standard four-way adjustable driver's seat. Some trims offer 10-way adjustment on the driver's seat, with two-way lumbar support. Optional interior features include a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and push-button start with smart key and immobilizer. Safety and Security Because you need to be safe on the road, the 2017 Kia Niro offers outstanding safety features. You'll get dual front advanced airbags, traction and stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, hill start assist, and a high line tire-pressure monitoring system as standard features. The vehicle is made with your safety in mind, and includes side-impact door beams and front and rear crumple zones. If you're driving with children in the car, you'll love the rear child safety door locks and the LATCH system for child safety seats. Some optional safety features include rear cross traffic alert and smart cruise control. Whether you need a car for the family or a vehicle that gets you to and from work, the 2017 Kia Niro is a great option. You'll get everything you need and more. With EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 52 miles per gallon in the city and 49 mpg on the highway, you'll quickly fall in love with the Niro. This photo, “ Kia Niro 2016,” by Karlis Dambrans used under CC BY 2.0. “ Kia Niro 2016” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Buying a car can be stressful, especially if it is your first car. There are a lot of different factors to consider when buying your first car. If you are like most other people, then you are looking for a way to make sure that you get a good deal. There are several key things that you can do to make the experience better and relieve some of your stress. If you are looking to buy your first car, here is a guide to buying your first car. more Research First Before you buy a car, you need to do your research first. The best way to make sure that you get a good deal is to know what is available. Model designs and prices vary widely between manufacturers. So, the best thing that you could do is to look at the basic models that each company has to offer. Look at the pricing and financing options available. Before you determine how much you should pay, you need to know how you can pay it and how dealers can help with that. The most important thing that you can look for in your research is the comparable features and prices of past year models. Knowing that information will allow you to judge if you want to buy new or used. You can save significantly by buying a used car with similar features. Decide What You Want/Need The next step is to figure out what you want and need your car to do. Before you spend any money on a car, you need to be sure that it can meet your needs. Once you have determined what your car needs to do, look for additional features that you want. This includes colors, interior features, performance abilities, and external designs. A big part of getting a good deal is getting a car that you enjoy driving every day. Start Shopping Around When you've done all of the research, it's time to start shopping around. Look at multiple dealers before deciding on a final choice. You'll want to see what is available before making a decision and you are likely to find a more competitive price if you try multiple locations. Don't forget to look at the used cars that are available as well. You'd be surprised at the value that you can find in used cars. Negotiate There are few purchases that you can still negotiate. Car sales are one of them. You may be able to negotiate down the price of the car that you want by a few hundred or thousands of dollars. This is where the research at the beginning becomes important since you'll have a better idea of what the car is worth. Car buying can be stressful, but following this process will help you come out with a good deal. Just keep your expectations in check. If you're buying a used car for $6,000, you likely won't be able to negotiate it down by a few thousand dollars. However, you may be able to get rid of the dealer fee, which will save you a few hundred dollars. This photo, “ 100_0248,” by Daniel Oines used under CC BY 2.0. “ 100_0248” is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

The key to finding the right car for you is to select a vehicle that has been customized to fit your exact needs and tastes. While some vehicles only offer you limited options for customization, the exciting 2017 Kia Sportage can be tailored to fit you like a glove. more By choosing the Kia Sportage, you'll be able to fully customize your vehicle so that you get the precise level of utility and enjoyment that you deserve. However, before you can get your ideal vehicle, you should learn about the wide variety of creative ways you can customize your 2017 Kia Sportage, Picking the Right Trim Virtually every high-quality vehicle will come with multiple trims, and the enticing Kia Sportage is no different. When you choose the Sportage as your next compact SUV, you'll be able to select from three trim levels: the LX, the EX, and the SX Turbo. All three trims can be upgraded with all-wheel drive, and come with several features. The SX Turbo trim, for example, offers a turbocharged 240-horsepower engine, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The EX trim is centered around comfort features like leather seat trims and automatic climate control. The LX trim provides 17-inch alloy wheels and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Packages Increase Utility Another way you can customize your 2017 Kia Sportage to your style is by choosing from several available packages. Both the LX and EX trims have multiple package options that will add amazing features to this quality vehicle. With the LX trim, you can choose the Popular Package, which includes features like roof rails and heated front seats. To that, you can add the Cool & Connected Package, which features an auto-defog system and UVO eServices. The EX trim also has two available packages: the Premium Package and the Technology Package. The Premium Package provides several luxury and advanced safety features, while the Technology Package includes voice control and premium audio. Accessorize Your Sportage If you want to customize your Sportage without spending extra money for advanced trims and packages, one of your best options is to purchase accessories. There are several interesting accessories available for the 2017 Kia Sportage, including those that will increase the utility level and longevity of your vehicle. For instance, if you plan to haul a great deal of cargo in your Sportage, you can choose a cargo net, cargo cover, or cargo tray. On the other hand, if you would like improved electronics, you can equip your Sportage with an auto dimming mirror, a Garmin GPS system, or a remote start. Selecting a Paint Job One of the keys to customizing your car is to pick a paint scheme that matches your taste. Picking a bold color is a great way to customize your Sportage. Fortunately, no matter what trim you choose, the Kia Sportage can be had in multiple colors. You'll have seven attractive colors to choose from, including Pacific Blue and Hyper Red. Build your 2017 Kia Sportage to your exact specifications and get a vehicle that exceeds your expectations. This photo, “ Kia Sportage LX 2.0 2017,” by RL GNZLZ used under CC BY-SA 2.0. “ Kia Sportage LX 2.0 2017” is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Kia Soul fans, get ready for the 2017 model rolling out this year. There are stylish changes to the exterior, and the cabin has the upgraded tech features you want. Most exciting of all is the new turbocharged engine that's now available for the Exclaim model. Driving just became more fun than ever. more Exterior Style Changes The 2017 Kia Soul has the same handsome silhouette as its predecessor, and it's still available in three trims: Base, Plus, and Exclaim. Most of the style changes are for the Exclaim. The front and rear bumper inserts, previously body-colored, now come standard as gloss black with red accents. There are also red accents on the lower body molding. Add that to the chrome twin exhaust tips, and the overall look is bolder than before. All three trims have the usual privacy glass and multi-reflector headlights, while the Plus and Exclaim still have standard front fog lights. The color options are a bit different this year with Kia dropping Solar Yellow and adding the new Mysterious Blue color. Opt for the Designer Collection Exterior Colors package, available for the Plus only, and you can choose from three exclusive color options, such as Inferno Red with Shadow Black roof. Interior Features Inside, you'll find upgraded tech features and small changes to the seats. The 4.3-inch color touch-screen audio display, once standard for the two upper trim levels, is now 5 inches for the Plus and 7 inches for the Exclaim. Drivers may upgrade to the available 8-inch screen. As for other tech, all trims still come standard with Sirius XM Satellite Radio, steering-wheel-mounted controls, and hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity. The UVO eServices for the Exclaim now has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The interior style changes are most noticeable in the top-of-the-line Exclaim model. The standard leather seat trim now includes orange contrast stitching. There is also a D-shaped Sport leather steering wheel; these sporty touches reflect the changes made to the engine, which is now turbocharged and faster than ever. New Turbocharged Engine Kia engineers upgraded the engine for the 2017 Kia Soul, replacing the Exclaim's 2.0-liter inline four with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four. They've also swapped the six-speed automatic with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This ramps up the horsepower to 201, which is 37 horses more than the 2016 model. As for torque, you'll get 195 pound-feet instead of 154 pound-feet. Just how fast can you go with this impressive new engine? According to the reviewers' test drive, the turbocharged Kia Soul goes from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 6.5 seconds. Even more exciting is the fuel efficiency. Rather than dropping, the newest Exclaim gives 26 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. That's slightly more than the 2016 model, which puts out 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Kia Soul is popular for a reason. It's comfortable, fun to drive, and practical. Head over to a dealership to see the coolest new features for yourself. Image by DealerOn