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Kia has a steady lineup of fuel-efficient models for 2018. All are equally equipped to handle the demands of the road while getting you to and from your destination without a hitch.  So if you're on the hunt for reliable performance, here are five Kias that set the standard for fuel efficiency. Niro The 2018 Kia Niro kicks things off with a total driving range of 583 miles. Additionally, its base FE trim gets the best estimate out of the group: 52 mpg city and 49 mpg highway. The secret? A hybrid-tuned, lightweight 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, permanent-magnet electric motor, and dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission. You also get regenerative braking, which helps recharge the Niro's 1.56-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery using restored kinetic energy. This results in better fuel efficiency for a longer drive. more Niro Plug-In Hybrid The Niro Plug-In Hybrid has the same engine, transmission, and motor as its counterpart, but its battery output increases to 8.9 kWh. It's available in the LX, EX, and EX Premium trims, and all are capable of reaching an all-electric range of 26 miles, a gas-only range of 46 mpg combined, and an MPGe range of 105. Overall, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid reaches a total driving range of 560 miles. You can use a 120-volt (Level 1) power port for overnight charging or a 240-volt (Level 2) port for a full charge in less than three hours. Best of all, Kia's handy UVO eco feature lets you remotely set a charging schedule, check your plug-in hybrid's charging status, and locate nearby charging stations straight from your smartphone. Optima Hybrid Running with a 2.0-liter 16-valve GDI engine and full parallel hybrid system is the 2018 Optima Hybrid. This vehicle packs an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission, an interior permanent-magnet motor, and a 1.76-kWh lithium polymer battery. Both the Premium and EX trims get up to 39 mpg city and 46 mpg highway. What's more, it gets a total driving range of 668 miles. This is thanks to a lightweight battery with better power and energy performance, a regenerative braking system, and an aerodynamic-tuned active air flap system, all designed to push fuel efficiency to new heights. Optima Plug-In Hybrid The Optima Plug-In Hybrid has almost everything its counterpart carries. A 9.8-kWh lithium polymer battery makes a difference, though, and gives this model EPA estimates to rival the Niro Plug-In Hybrid. Its only trim, the EX, gets an all-electric range of 29 miles, a gas-only range of 40 mpg combined, and an MPGe of 103, as well as a total driving range of 610 miles. Soul EV The fifth entry on this list is the fuel-efficient Soul EV. It runs solely on electricity and is powered using an onboard 6.6-kW charger or a CHAdeMO-type DC Fast Charge port. The latter gets you a 90-percent charge in just under 50 minutes! The Soul EV is powered by a permanent-magnet electric motor and 30-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. Together these components allow the Soul's EV and EV+ trims to reach a combined MPGe of 108 and a total driving range of 111 miles. If you're searching for a fuel efficient ride, the 2018 Kia lineup has plenty in store for you. Which model will you choose? Image via Flickr by JayUny, used under CC BY-SA 2.0

When it's time for a new car or truck, you'll most likely need to get rid of your old one. There are plenty of ways to say goodbye to your former car, from trading it in to donating it to a worthy cause. Here are four options for getting rid of a car at the end of its usable life. Sell to a Used Car Dealer When selling to a used car dealer, you can usually walk out with a check the same day. If you're in a hurry to sell or don't have time to go through the process of selling yourself, contacting a used car dealer may be a good option. The trade-off is that you'll make less from the sale of your car than with other methods. Trade-in at a Dealership Often, when a car reaches the end of its usable life, the driver is in the market for a new car at the same time. Almost all dealerships offer a trade-in option. While negotiating the price of a new or new-to-you car, the trade-in value can be figured into the purchasing package. If you switch cars regularly, this can be a good option. However, if your vehicle is more than 10 years old, it will probably end up being sold at auction. When this happens, you can expect that the value you'll receive in trade will be fairly low. Trade-in is a highly convenient option since you don't have to go through the steps of selling the car yourself. Donate to Charity A number of nonprofit organizations accept vehicle donations. Once the charity sells the car, you can use part of that value as a charitable contribution. This can save you some money at tax time. The big advantage of donating is that the organization will handle car pick up. Before selecting a charity, make sure they're registered and tax-exempt. Be prepared for some paperwork and time making sure everything is in order. Sites like Car Donation Wizard can help you navigate vehicle donations, including selecting an appropriate charity. Sell It Yourself From a simple "for sale" sign in the window to nationwide sites, there's an almost infinite number of ways to privately sell your vehicle. When you sell the car yourself, you're likely to get the most for your vehicle, but you'll also do the most work. You'll want to make sure that the car is clean and that any minor repairs have been completed. After that, you'll have to list the vehicle. For a simple start, try the classifieds in your local paper and the area craigslist. Finally, and most importantly, be careful with private sales. Always stay on high alert for potential scams. That old vehicle has treated you well. When it's time to let it go, you'll need to make a choice between convenience and getting the best possible value. Choose based on your budget and how much time you have to commit to selling your car. Image via Flickr by Robert Couse-Baker, used under CC BY 2.0

Knowing how to properly wax and polish your Kia is a good skill to have. It can help extend the life of your paint by ridding it of major wear and sealing your car's pores from potential dirt and grime buildup. If you want to rejuvenate your Kia's exterior, here are a few tips to help you get the job done right. Which Car Wax Is Right for You? The four main types of wax include: Liquid wax Paste wax Spray wax Wipe-on, clear paint sealant A liquid wax works well with a buffer, while paste wax is best applied by hand. Spray wax is a popular choice if you regularly wash and wax your car, as it doesn't require much effort or a lengthy application time. A clear paint sealant is easy to work with, too, as you only need to wipe it on and leave it to dry. How to Wax Your Car Always give your Kia a nice wash before waxing the exterior. Use a buffer for liquid wax and a pad or sponge for paste wax. For spray wax, apply in small areas and rub the product in using a microfiber towel. Clear paint sealants can be easily wiped on with a towel and are safe to use on different trims. Make sure your car is completely dry, especially when using a clear sealant, and tucked away in the shade before you apply the solution. This will prevent streaking and leave you with a top coat that's easier to buff. You can use a poly foam wax applicator to help you get thin, even coats perfect for buffing. How to Use a Buffer A buffer attached to a soft foam pad is a helpful tool that's gentle enough so it won't damage the paint but firm enough for a thorough finish. Liquid wax and sealants should be distributed in 3-inch lines around the pad's edge. Paste wax, on the other hand, should be spread evenly onto the pad using a putty knife. Keep the pad pressed to the paint before turning it on to prevent any splatter. A machine speed of three is best for proper application, and avoid pressing too hard or tipping the machine at an angle while it's running. There are two types of buffers available: An electric orbital buffer is a popular choice for beginners since it doesn't require much skill to operate. However, you'll have to put in more elbow grease to get a deep clean. A high-speed angle grinder with buffing wheel cleans better than an electric orbital buffer. It requires less effort but more skill and attention to get the job done right. How Often Should You Buff or Wax Your Car? You don't need to buff your Kia every time you wax, but you should do so at least once a year. If you often park outside where your car is exposed to weather damage, oxidation, tree sap, and bird droppings, consider upping it to two or three times a year. When it comes to waxing, it's recommended you do so every three months or during seasonal changes. Knowing how to properly wax your Kia can keep it looking good for years to come! Image via Flickr by TeddyBuddy44, used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Dickinson Bayou is located in southeast Texas, halfway between Houston and Galveston. The city of Dickinson sits along the Dickinson Bayou and is regarded for its outdoor activities and events. Here are six ways to have fun on the Dickinson Bayou. Fishing and Crabbing Fishing is a popular pastime on the Dickinson Bayou. Largemouth bass, red drum, and black drum are some of the common types of fish found here. Bar ditches, especially where sand has been excavated, are good fishing spots. Late March through mid-May is prime season for freshwater fish in coastal areas. During a dry summer, the water becomes saltier and you'll find smaller saltwater fish not typically seen there. Some of these fish include redfish, piggy perch, ladyfish, speckled trout, and croaker. You can also do some crabbing here too. Crabs are found along the shore, piers, jetties, and docks. Just ensure you know the difference between blue and blue claw crabs, as you can catch as many blue claw crabs as you like, but blue crabs, or stone crabs, have strict catch limits. Canoeing Canoeing is another fun activity to enjoy on Dickinson Bayou. From Dickinson Bayou Boat Ramp Pier 2, you can launch kayaks and canoes. There is parking available, but no restrooms on site. Camping You can camp along the river in spots like the Bayou Campground. It's open all year, and you can set up tents and there are pop-ups and pull-thru sites. The campground also offers Wi-Fi access, a store, and laundry facilities. Nearby activities include San Jacinta Battleground, Texas City Dike, and the campground is only six miles from NASA. Paul Hopkins Park Spend a day at one of Dickinson's parks, like Paul Hopkins Park. You'll find picnic areas and a picnic pavilion that has 10 tables, a playground, multi-purpose trail, pier, and canoe launch. There are restrooms available as well. If you're visiting in late November up until Christmas, you'll want to check out the Dickinson Festival of Lights. This free, walk-through event has been an annual tradition for two decades. Enjoy the beautifully decorated light displays and have your photo taken with Santa. The event gets busy, so there are shuttle buses that get guests to and from Dickinson Plaza Shopping Center. Dickinson Bayou Ranch While the majority of the activities here revolve around water, Dickinson Bayou Ranch offers some different fun on the bayou. The ranch hosts numerous seasonal events, and you can take riding lessons and even get your horse trained! Chaparral Golf Club If you want to golf along the river, you'll want to visit Chaparral Golf Club that offers two 9-hole courses that include water in play on five holes. The course is noted for its very narrow fairways, and you'll start off with the hardest hole, a 375-yard par 4, which is then followed by the longest hole at 520 yards, par 5. You'll find other activities available on the bayou too. With the city of Dickinson running along the river, there is no shortage of ways to have fun! Image by zmortero, used under CCO 1.0

Burglary is one of the most common crimes, and that includes car theft. Cars are increasingly expensive, especially with advanced technology. People often leave valuables in their vehicles which can further entice thieves. Criminals move fast and can be in and out of your vehicle in seconds. According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, motor vehicles were stolen at a rate of 236.9 per 100,000 in 2016. You've spent all this money, so how do you protect your investment? By taking these five precautions, you can hopefully reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car thieves. Park in a Safe Place Sometimes, where you park makes all the difference. Park as close as possible to home, or near a building that's occupied. When you're at a restaurant or bar, try to park where you can see your vehicle from inside. At shopping malls or large parking structures, park under well-lit sections and as close as possible to the building entrance. Thieves tend to go for cars that are off in the distance and parked alone, rather than the ones where people are passing by on a regular basis. Don't Leave Valuables Visible One of the easiest ways to avoid vehicle theft and break-ins is to keep your valuables out of view. By keeping valuables in plain sight, your vehicle is far more attractive to thieves. Don't Leave Your Car Running Unattended Some people are tempted to leave their car running in the driveway while they dash back inside to grab something. That is a bad idea, as thieves only need a couple of seconds to get away with your vehicle. People who live in cold weather climates may want to de-ice their windows with the car running. Thieves are on the lookout for people who do that and often think nothing of jumping in your car while you're right there. Add Theft-Prevention Equipment Adding a visual deterrent to your lineup of theft-prevention equipment can be beneficial as well. Use alarms that flashlights and sound alarm sirens, and install things like a steering wheel lock, a fuel disabler, and tracking device. The president of the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) says drivers should use a five-tiered system that can be customized depending on the driver's location and vehicle type. The five steps are: Use good judgment on parking location, locking doors, etc. Use an alarm system that has flashing lights and sirens to draw attention. Install Anti-theft visual hardware. Get immobilizing devices like ignition cutoffs and starter disablers. Add electronic tracking devices in case the vehicle is stolen. Watch Keys with Parking Attendants While not all attendants are unscrupulous, some are, so it's important to only leave your ignition key. Don't leave your other keys, especially your house keys. If the attendant can get in the glove compartment, they could find out where you live and duplicate your ignition key, stealing your vehicle at a later time. While there is no guarantee your vehicle won't ever be stolen, taking extra precautions can certainly help reduce the risk. Image by TheDigitalWay, used under CCO 1.0

When you think about dining in Texas, one thing comes to mind: steak. Home of longhorn and cattle drives, cows are an enduring symbol of the Lone Star State. In Dickinson and the surrounding towns, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to steakhouses. From a traditional meal of steak and potatoes to a modern Cajun interpretation, you'll get your fill of our signature dish. These are five of the best steakhouses around Dickinson that all meat eaters will love. Logan's Roadhouse A traditional "peanut shells on the ground" roadhouse just up the road from Dickinson in League City, Logan's Roadhouse serves up butcher-selected steaks grilled over an open flame using mesquite wood. Their menu includes all the classic cuts of beef, including bone-in ribeye, New York strip, Porterhouse, and filet mignon. For a decadent addition, order your steak Onion Brewski style, and it will come with garlic butter, Samuel Adams beer-braised onions and crispy fried onions. Dickinson BarBQue & Steakhouse The yelp reviews say it all. One reviewer claims it was "by far one of the best steaks I've had in the area." This hole-in-the-wall joint has a menu that caters to all things Texas, from hand-cut ribeye to burgers, to good old fashion Texas Bar "B" Que ribs, pork, and brisket. If you're not sure what to order, one of the chefs will bring out a sample plate for you to try. Main St. Bistro For a Cajun twist on the traditional steak, try Main St. Bistro in League City. A hidden gem with a bistro atmosphere, they serve a variety of dishes, but the steaks stand out. Try the beef & bleu ribeye, a Cajun-spiced blackened steak with bleu cheese crumbles, shallot rings and red wine reduction. TripAdvisor reviews mention exceptional service as another reason to grab dinner at Main St. Bistro. Craft 96 Draught House & Kitchen Beer and steak go together like Texas and cowboy boots. At Craft 96 Draught House & Kitchen, you can order their ribeye served with garlic butter and garlic mash and pair it with one of the 60 beers that are always on tap. Start your meal off with one of their soft pretzels. Guess what? That goes great with a beer too. Saltgrass Steak House Saltgrass is an upscale traditional steakhouse with a rustic Texas-styled decor in nearby Kemah. At Saltgrass they serve only Certified Angus Beef steaks always topped with fresh garlic butter and seasoned with their Saltgrass-7 Steak Spice. Try their Wagon Boss Center-cut Top Sirloin or 16 oz. Texas T-bone, the cut you picture when thinking about Texas steak. The delicious steaks are made even better by the view over the boardwalk toward Trinity Bay. When it comes to steak in Texas, you can't go wrong. Texans pride themselves on having some of the best beef in the country. Around Dickinson, meat eaters are spoiled for choice. Do you go for peanut shells on the floor or a cold craft beer with your steak? Here in Dickinson, the only bad choice is not ordering the steak. Image by Divily, used under CCO 1.0

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

Hunting is a popular past-time in Dickinson and the surrounding areas. Whether you enjoy collecting trophies, enjoy the meat, or enjoy the sport, hunting offers a fun way to spend your weekend. Learn everything you need to know about Dickinson hunting by checking out the tips below. What Can You Hunt in Dickinson? There is a wide array of game that can be hunted in Texas and around the Dickinson area. What you can hunt will depend on the season. The most popular game and hunting seasons of the area are listed below. more December through February These winter months include seasonal hunting for animals as woodcock, Wilson's snipe, sandhill crane, moorhens, and pheasant. March through May There are not many hunting seasons open in the spring months aside from alligator season, which usually starts at the beginning of April. September through November The prime hunting seasons for the area will run during the fall months. There are a number of game types that will have opening seasons in the fall including quail, squirrel, turkey, deer, pronghorn, geese, duck, and dove. What Permits and Licenses Are Required? If you are hunting an animal in the state of Texas, no matter if it is a bird, frog, or deer, you will be required to purchase a hunting license for the season. Regular hunting licensee can be purchased by anyone over 17. Those under 17 will be required to obtain a Youth Hunting License. You are permitted to trap any nuisance fur-bearing animals as well as animals that may be deemed vicious or feral without having a license. These exceptions can include coyotes that are attacking or feral hogs. If you are trapping fur-bearing animals to make use of their fur, you are required to obtain a trapper's license. If you are going on a guided hunt with an outfitter or hunting guide, the facility may be able to assist you in obtaining licenses for what you will be hunting on the excursion. Things to Note About Hunting in Texas Almost 97 percent of all land in Texas is privately owned, but many of these landowners are more than willing to let hunters hunt on their land for a small fee. You will have three primary options when it comes to finding a piece of land to hunt on. You can: Hunt on the public land that is available Gain a membership in a hunting club that provides access to specified land Retain the services of a hunting guide who will often have arrangement with certain land owner's to use their property in exchange for payment While these options may not always seem ideal, they are the best way to ensure that you are not violating private property laws in Texas. Enjoy some hunting with some friends, on a guided hunt, or at one of the many hunting clubs in and around the Dickinson area. Follow the tips above to ensure your hunting experience goes off without a hitch. Image by cocoparisienne, used under CCO 1.0

Nothing is better for a date night than spending the evening out on the town and enjoying a quiet relaxing dinner at a fine restaurant. If you are looking to spend your next date night at one of the fine-dining restaurants in the Dickinson area, be sure to check out some of the area's best restaurants listed below. Perry's Steakhouse & Grill If you are looking for a relaxing, upscale atmosphere as well as a mouthwatering steak or decadent seafood, a stop to Perry's Steakhouse and Grill will suit your palate. Located on Baybrook Mall Drive, the restaurant is known for its live entertainment, extensive wine list, and unique menu offerings. Some of the must-try options on the menu include the iced seafood tower, bone-in filet mignon, and the pan-seared sea bass. more Eculent Eculent is putting a new modern twist on farm to table. If you are looking for a one of a kind experience for your date night, a reservation at Eculent will be exactly what you ordered. Chef David Christopher Skinner has created a menu that allows guests to go on a culinary journey by creating plates made to evoke a sensory response and provide unique flavor combinations. Whether you and your date are foodies or are just looking to experience food in a new way, a date night at Eculent is the way to go. The menus change seasonally and focus on local ingredients, but all of the chef's creative menus will please any pallet. Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse If you are looking for some authentic Brazillian cuisine in a fine-dining setting, you can spend your next date night at the Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse. The restaurant offers lunch, brunch, and dinner options. The restaurant is most known for its over-the-top cuisine offerings, great service, and relaxing setting. While you can't go wrong with any options on their menu, diners recommend the lobster bisque, cassava bread, and the bacon-wrapped filet. The Kemah Steak Company Open daily at 5 p.m., The Kemah Steak Company is a great place to grab a glass of wine, enjoy an amazing steak, and relax on a quiet date night in an upscale and quiet atmosphere. The restaurant is located just off Kemah Boardwalk and is known for its candle-lit ambiance and mouthwatering cuts of beef. When stopping by, you should definitely try one of the restaurant's unique martini offerings. When it comes to dinner items, try one of their Texas hand-cut steak offerings. Some of the most popular cuts to try on the menu include the prime center-cut ribeye, the wet aged center cut filet mignon, or the dry aged bone-in New York strip steak. Whether you are looking for seafood, a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table experience, some South American cuisine, or a Texas steak, you can enjoy a meal you won't forget at any of the restaurants listed above. Check out one or all of them the next time you are in or around the Dickinson area. Image by StockSnap, used under CCO 1.0

Kia has become known for creating great vehicles that are safe, family-friendly, and affordable, and the new 2018 Kia Rio is no exception. While affordability is an important factor when choosing your first vehicle, there are many reasons the 2018 Kia Rio is the perfect car for first-time buyers. A High Level of Safety Kia prides itself on providing a high level of safety with its vehicles, and safety is often one of the most important factors for choosing a first vehicle, especially for a teenager. The 2018 Kia is equipped with both passive and active safety systems to provide protection from an accident as well as protection during an accident. To start with, the Rio is designed with a high-strength steel body to reduce the impact the driver feels in a collision. The vehicle is also equipped with an advanced airbag system which includes dual front, side, and side curtain bags. The Rio has a range of new technologically advanced passive safety features to help prevent an accident while driving. Some of the passive safety features include anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and hill start climb assist. more Affordability The Kia is one of the most affordable compact vehicles on the market, making it a viable option for first-time car buyers. Not only is its purchase price reasonable, but it is extremely fuel efficient and low cost when it comes to maintenance and operation. Additionally, due to the lower purchase price of the vehicle, you may be able to find more competitive insurance rates even though you are purchasing a new vehicle. This makes it a great option for young buyers who have less cash to spare on fuel, car payments, and normal maintenance. Available Optional Technology Young buyers are looking for advanced driver's assistance and convenience in their vehicles. While not all technology features come standard on the 2018 Kia Rio, there are many that are available in the higher trim levels or as available upgrades. Some of the most popular upgradeable technology features for first-time car buyers on the Rio include the rear backup camera display, automated braking system, and forward collision warning system. Buyers will also love the available convenience technology, such as Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and voice recognition. These allow you to keep your eyes on the road while staying connected with your phone, including contacts, navigation, and music. Not only is this hands-free integration convenient for operating the systems on your phone, but it also provides added safety by reducing driver distraction, which is especially important for new or younger drivers. The the new 2018 Kia Rio i s the perfect vehicle for first-time car buyers. Whether you value safety, convenience, technology, affordability, or all three, the new Rio helps fit the bill. Find out why the new 2018 Kia Rio is a great car for the first-time buyers for yourself by stopping by Gay Family Kia and taking one out for a test drive today. Image by jarmoluk, 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