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The 2018 Kia Rio models appeal to drivers because of their budget-friendly pricing and attractive body styles. Whether you prefer a compact sedan or a hatchback, Rio offers both. But how do you decide between the two? Here's a comparison of the Kia Rio and Rio 5-Door to make your decision easier. Exterior Features and Style The 2018 Kia Rio is a sporty vehicle that is slightly wider in its stance than past model years, as well as longer with a sleek, aerodynamic appearance. Standard exterior features include solar-control glass, multi-reflective halogen headlights, heated rear glass, and 15-inch wheels. The 2018 Kia 5-Door has the same sporty exterior features as the Rio but adds a rear spoiler and rear-window wipers to keep the hatchback's back window clear while driving in the rain. more Power and Performance Both the Rio and Rio 5-Door models come equipped with the same standard 1.6-liter I-4 four-cylinder engine, which produces 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. The base-level trims on both models have a standard six-speed manual transmission, and the two upper-level trims on each model come with a six-speed automatic transmission that is also an optional upgrade for the base trims. The Rio and Rio 5-Door both come with an updated anti-lock braking system and a motor-driven power steering system that give the Rios exceptional control and responsiveness, as well as 30 percent more advanced high-strength steel that contribute to the vehicles' rigidity and deliver a smoother ride. Safety The Rio and Rio 5-Door share the same safety features as well, starting with front, rear, and side-curtain air bags; impact sensors; hill-start assist control, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, electric brake-force distribution, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and more. Drive Wise is an available safety option for both vehicles and includes forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking for unexpected developments on the road. Interior and Technology Features The Kio Rio and Rio 5-Door are also stocked with tons of fun and convenient entertainment options.  Both models' highest-level trims come with the UVO system featuring a 7-inch color touch screen, keeping drivers connected and informed while on the go with helpful features like roadside assistance, vehicle diagnostics, parking minder, and more. Alternatively, the other four trims are equipped with a 5-inch color touch screen that includes an AM/FM audio system with CD, MP3, and SiriusXM capabilities. Other standard and available technology features include Bluetooth, steering-wheel-mounted controls, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility, Siri Eyes Free, four to six speakers, and a rear-camera display. Depending on the trim level you select, the Rio and Rio 5-Door share the same standard seating features, including cloth or leather upholstery, a six-way adjustable driver's seat, and 60/40 rear-folding seats. And while each vehicle does have plenty of cargo space, the Rio 5-Door hatchback offers much more room whether the rear seats are folded down. Choosing between the 2018 Kia Rio and Rio 5-Door comes down to subtle differences like standard features versus available upgrades and, of course, body style. To determine which model best meets all your needs and desires, visit Gay Family Kia today to experience the finer points of each vehicle and schedule a test drive. Image via Flickr by GNZLZ

If there's a problem developing under the hood of your Kia, you're likely to hear an unusual noise. Visit your dealer the minute you hear this strange noise, and you may be able to avoid expensive repair costs. Here are a few noises you shouldn't ignore on your Kia if you want to keep your vehicle running well. Rattling in Your Wheel Not every noise you hear with a Kia will be a major issue, but they all deserve your attention. If you're out for a drive and hear something rattling in your wheels, you need to schedule a service appointment as soon as you can. Generally, this noise means that your lug nuts have not been tightened properly, which means your hubcap is at risk of falling off your vehicle. Your Kia maintenance tech should be able to secure your lug nuts and hubcap so that you and other drivers will be safe. more Squealing From Your Brakes One of the most concerning sounds you may hear coming from your Kia is a squealing noise when applying your brakes. If you hear squealing while braking, it usually means that your brake pads are almost completely worn out. To fix this issue, you should visit your Kia dealer's service department to have new pads installed. Hearing a grinding noise while braking is even more serious. A grinding noise means that your pads are so worn that the metal parts in your braking system are coming in contact with each other, which can cause major and expensive damage. Ticking From Your Engine Many of the sounds that you'll hear while driving your Kia will come from your vehicle's engine. While some of these noises are normal, others mean that you need service to keep your vehicle running. For example, if your engine is making a ticking noise, there are several things that may be happening. Most likely, your engine oil is too low, so adding more oil should fix the problem. If replenishing your engine oil doesn't stop the ticking noise, you need to have your engine inspected because one of your engine parts, such as the fuel injector, may be wearing out. Whining During Acceleration If you hear a whining noise while accelerating your Kia, but the noise isn't present when your vehicle is idle, you need service right away. Hearing a whining noise while driving your car can mean an engine part is on the brink of failure, and you may be facing a breakdown in the very near future. This noise can mean that your power steering fluid is running out or that your water pump is malfunctioning. A whining noise can also indicate a major problem, such as a bent piston. If you hear any of these noises while you're driving your Kia vehicle, you should schedule a service appointment with your Kia dealer as soon as possible. Your dealership's service team will be able to diagnose the problem and effectively complete repairs. Sources: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0876/3374/products/DESDEMONA_-_BLACK_2_1800x1800.jpg?v=1566491184 https://blog.carvana.com/2017/10/the-dangers-of-driving-with-a-low-oil-level/

The 2018 Kia Forte and the 2018 Kia Forte5 join the Rio and Rio 5-Door as similar, yet different, vehicles in the Kia lineup. The Forte is a sedan, and the Forte5 is a sporty compact hatchback. Here's a brief overview of each vehicle to help you choose which one best meets your needs. Exterior Style and Features The Kia Forte and Forte5 share some similarities as well as differences on the exterior. Depending on the trim you choose, they both offer LED positioning lights, power heated outside mirrors, solar-control glass, a rear-window defogger, the signature Kia tiger-nose grille, and more. However, the Kia Forte5 boasts a cargo cover inside the back door to hide belongings from view, whereas the Kia Forte takes this up a notch with a hands-free trunk control. Available upgrades for the Forte and Forte5 include fog lamps, a rear spoiler, a sunroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels. more Performance Almost all the Forte and Forte5 trims come with a standard 2.0-liter I-4 four-cylinder engine, but the highest-level Forte5 trim equips a turbocharged 1.6-liter instead. The 2.0-liter engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque in the Forte. The Forte5's 2.0-liter engine, however, produces 164 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, and the turbocharged engine puts out 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The Forte's base trim is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and the other two trims come standard with an automatic transmission (optional for the base trim). The Forte5's automatic transmission is standard, but the turbocharged engine offers a six-speed manual as an option. Safety Kia Forte and Forte5 feature the advanced airbag system with front, full-length side curtain, and front-seat-mounted side air bags. Their standard safety systems are also identical, with features like the traction-control system, tire-pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and more. They also share braking systems such as electronic brake-force distribution, which helps them brake consistently and distribute the vehicle's weight appropriately; and anti-lock braking and brake-assist systems, which help the vehicles determine emergent braking situations and applies additional force to the brakes when needed. Interior and Technology Features Depending on which trim you choose, both models offer several standard and available interior options, including cloth- or leather-trimmed seats, ventilated and heated seats, dual temperature control, smart key with push-button start, and a supervision metal cluster with a 4.2-inch color LCD display that keeps important driver information — such as an odometer, trip meter, and audio and phone controls — at your fingertips. Both models offer the UVO system with a 7-inch touch screen, either standard or as an optional upgrade, to keep you connected to important features like roadside assistance, vehicle diagnostics, and 911 connect. You can also get features like parking minder, which keeps track of where you park, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Both Kia Forte and Forte5 offer so many great options, including comprehensive safety features, incredible comfort, and the latest technology. Visit Gay Family Kia to schedule a test drive today. Image via Flickr by GabboT

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

As gas prices continue to fall and consumers require more versatility, the SUV has become the most popular vehicle across America, causing stiff competition between automakers. That said, Kia has the most diverse array of SUV offerings, giving you the perfect fit for your needs or lifestyle. If you're looking for a new SUV, here are Kia's four fantastic options. Sportage Combining the nimble handling of a sedan with the flexibility of an SUV, the 2019 Kia Sportage is an excellent choice for singles or burgeoning families. This small SUV offers seating for up to five passengers, while still providing up to 30.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat. Need more space? Fold the rear seats down to unveil a whopping 60.1 cubic feet of room. Under the hood, the Sportage boasts a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that's good for 181 horsepower, 181 pound-feet of torque, and 26 mpg combined. If that doesn't scratch you where you itch, the SX Turbo trim kicks out 240 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque for a pure driving experience. Choose from front-wheel drive or, if you're feeling adventurous, opt for the all-wheel drive. more Sorento As the largest SUV in the Kia lineup, the 2019 Sorento is ideal for large families, adventurers, do-it-yourself enthusiasts, or those that put a premium on versatility. For the first time in its existence, the Sorento offers third-row seating across all six trims, providing seating for up to seven passengers with 11.3 cubic feet of room behind the rear seat. If you need more space, fold down the third row for 38 cubic feet of room, or fold down both rows for a massive 73 cubic feet of room. While the 2.4-liter inline-four is enough for some drivers, performance gurus will love the 3.3-liter V-6. Packed with 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque, this engine makes the Sorento the most powerful SUV in the fleet, ready to tackle anything that's thrown in its path. Soul If you've ever been described as quirky or whimsical, the 2019 Kia Soul is your vehicular soulmate. This boxy, fun, and stylish compact crossover has a wonderful design that makes it stand out from the competition, while still offering the amenities you crave. Inside, the Soul boasts a 5-inch, 7-inch, or 8-inch touch-screen display with an infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, cruise control, and an available driver-assist safety system. Three engines provide between 130 and 201 horsepower, offering either maximum efficiency of up to 31 mpg or some serious giddy-up. Perfect for the young or the young at heart, the Soul is in a category all its own. Niro The most recent addition to the Kia lineup, the 2018 Niro is also the first hybrid SUV from the Korean automaker. Choose from either a standard hybrid setup or a plug-in hybrid for some of the best fuel efficiency available. The standard Niro gets up to 52 mpg, while the plug-in option provides a range of up to 26 miles on a single charge. Throw in seating for five, loads of entertainment options, and plenty of comfort, and the Niro helps you save the world without skimping on the extras. From fuel-efficient options to go-anywhere workhorses, the Kia SUV lineup is sure to earn your approval. https://www.flickr.com/photos/juanelo242a/38735307170/sizes/l Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ

As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston is one of the most exciting places in the country, and there's always something going on. Whether you're visiting or you're a resident of H-Town, you can find another side to the city by scheduling a tour with one of the many tour companies. From sightseeing to food, you'll find your new favorite Houston hot spot along the way. Hop-On Houston City Tour If you've never had the chance to hop on a double-decker bus, you won't even need to go to London to do it. Instead, buy a ticket to the Hop-On Houston City Tour. Aboard this two-story bus, you can enjoy all Houston has to offer while riding on the lower level or the open-air top floor of the bus. Choose from either a 24-hour or 48-hour pass to explore the city with a tour guide who offers historical facts, interesting tidbits, and engrossing stories about landmarks, parks, and buildings. The bus offers six convenient stops throughout the city, allowing you to hop off and hop back on at your own convenience. If you love tours that still allow flexibility and exploring at your own pace, Hop-On Houston City Tour is the perfect fit. more Nightly Spirits Houston Haunted Pub Tour If you drew a Venn diagram of your two favorite things and they just happen to be overlapping circles of beer and ghosts, Nightly Spirits Houston Haunted Pub Tour is a match made for you. This tour takes a step back into the mid-to-late 1800s, when Houston started to flourish as a city and urban legends and ghost stories began to emerge. During this three-hour, adults-only tour, you're taken by a tour guide to some of Houston's most famous haunted buildings, as well as a few haunted bars for a cocktail and a ghost story. Even if you don't see a ghoul, one thing is sure: you're certain to see some spirits. Taste of Houston Food Tours Known as the Culinary Capital of the South, H-Town has a diverse food scene that pulls influences from around the globe. The result is a city full of eclectic restaurants serving up classic Tex-Mex, fusion, and other dishes you just won't find anywhere else. Rather than relying on Yelp or a travel guide to find these places, let Taste of Houston Food Tours do the work. These tours take you around to some of the most popular local spots in the city, offering tastes of the finest food and drink. Their guides will also take you to places of cultural or historical significance, tying them back into the cuisine that you're enjoying. Take your food tour to the next level with optional add-ons such as a cooking class, culinary scavenger hunt, or a team cooking competition. With these tours, you'll go in as a cook and emerge as an executive chef. While some explorers enjoy zero planning and freedom to explore, these tours offer a middle ground where you can learn something about the city without being bogged down to a long-term itinerary. Plus, you just might find you like tours more than you think. https://www.flickr.com/photos/76771463@N02/8311996895/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Katie Haugland Bowen

While there's nothing wrong with kicking back and enjoying Netflix on your weekends, getting some culture is always a valuable way to spend your time. By educating yourself about the world around you, you develop tolerance, respect, and appreciation for others around you. Whether you love art, history, science, or something else, Houston has a museum that will help you become a more well-rounded and refined individual. Museum of Fine Arts Known officially as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, this art establishment houses one of the largest art collections in the country, totaling 64,000 works across 300,000 square feet in seven separate buildings. The works span back over 6,000 years, with specific emphasis on French Impressionism, Italian Renaissance paintings, photography, and post-World War II paintings and sculptures. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts temporary or traveling exhibits, such as modern art and design, ancient Indian relics, and more. The museum is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday (free!) from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12:15 to 7 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults (19-64), $10 for seniors (65+) and military personnel, $7.50 for college students and youth (13-18), and free for children 12 and under. more Houston Museum of Natural Science Founded in 1909, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the oldest and most popular museums in the city. In terms of attendance, it ranks fourth in the country among non-Smithsonian-affiliated museums. The museum has typical natural history attractions, such as fossils, gems, minerals, chemistry exhibits, and interactive science exhibits. But it's the extras that make this museum a true experience. The main entrance is filled with gigantic dinosaur skeletons, while the Butterfly House and Insect Zoo are ideal for getting up close and personal with creepy crawlers. The Burke Baker Planetarium is an amazing place for visitors to learn about the solar system thanks to state-of-the-art Digistar 6 software, which is the world's premium digital planetarium software and projection system. The final touch is an IMAX theater that shows educational films in stunning 4K quality. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Tickets are $25 for adults (12-61), $15 for youths (3-11), seniors (62+), and college students with a valid ID, and $8 for military personnel. Children 2 and under are free. Holocaust Museum Houston Opened in 1996, the Holocaust Museum Houston is the country's fourth-largest Holocaust-related museum. The museum's mission is to bring an everlasting reminder of the horrors of genocide through an understanding of cultures, remembrance of the Holocaust, and further education. Although the museum is a somber reminder of the atrocities of the past, it's an excellent way to learn about history through the eyes of those who lived it. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday (free). Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children. Although Houston may not have the tourist-friendly attractions you find in Dallas, San Antonio, or Austin, it's not short on awesome museums. Take advantage of all that H-Town has to offer by planning your trip today. https://www.flickr.com/photos/eschipul/945078417/sizes/l Image via Flickr by eschipul

Stylish, provocative, and loaded with features, the 2018 Kia Soul EV is the funkiest electric car to ever grace American roads. If you were a fan of the gasoline-powered version of the Soul, but you've made a vow to reduce your carbon footprint, the Soul EV adds a purely electric powertrain that still provides the utility and versatility of the original. For those new to the electric vehicle market, the Soul EV is an awesome choice that makes the ultimate statement. Funky Styling Since the Kia Soul debuted in 2009, it's remained one of the most interesting vehicles on the road thanks primarily to its unconventional style, This unusual design tradition continues with the all-new Soul EV. Its boxy yet sporty design provides a look unlike any other, while 16-inch alloy wheels and fog lights add depth and allure. Both of the Soul EV's trims also offer privacy glass, power heated side mirrors, and LED lighting to round out the eye-catching exterior of the vehicle. more The Powertrain Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Kia Soul EV is its 100 percent electric powertrain system. The heart and soul of this system is a 30-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor that delivers 109 horsepower and up to 210 pound-feet of torque. This gives it more oomph than most of its gas-powered competitors, including a 0-60 of 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 92 mph. Charging and Range The 2018 edition of the Soul EV improves its range from 91 miles on a single charge to 111 miles this year. With this 20 mile increase, the Soul EV reaches the top of the electric vehicle market while still offering the versatility and space of a compact SUV. To charge the Soul EV, you have three options, but most importantly, all Soul EVs now come with a standard DC Fast Charger. This allows you to charge the vehicle from dead to 80 percent battery in just 30 minutes, which is ideal if you forget to plug it in overnight, or you need a quick charge when you're home for lunch. With the regular 120-volt charger that comes with the car, you'll still get the fast charge, but to get the battery up to 100 percent, it takes 24 hours. For quicker charging, a 240-volt adapter can reduce the time to about four hours, while 480-volt chargers found in public charge stations can have the Soul EV running at full blast in 30 to 50 minutes. Interior Extras Despite its reputation as an energy saver, the Soul EV doesn't skimp where it counts, offering more standard features than many of its competitors. This includes amenities such as an 8-inch touch-screen display, UVO infotainment system, a rear-camera display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, and a six-speaker sound system. Add all that up, and the Soul EV borders on being a luxury car. With several automakers blazing new trails into the electric car market, Kia proves that it's a serious player with the 2018 Kia Soul EV. Make sure to get on board before the secret gets out. https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayuny/36666710965/sizes/l Image via Flickr by JayUny

August is an exciting month in Houston. When the kids are out of school and the days are long, you'll want to get out and experience everything the city has to offer. Whether you're into theater or playing in the dirt, Houston has an event for you. Here are the top four August events near the city. Houston Shakespeare Festival During the last week in July and the first week in August, join the Houston Shakespeare Festival at Miller Outdoor Theater for a night of culture and comedy. On Aug. 1, 3, and 5, sit under the Texas stars and watch one of Shakespeare's most engrossing comedies. "Twelfth Night" will have you pondering lost love and reminiscing about missed connections. For the more serious side of Shakespeare, attend a performance of "Richard III" on Aug. 2, 4, or 6. The Houston Shakespeare Festival has been running since 1975 as a unique partnership between the city and the University of Houston. All performances are free and open to the public. more 32nd Annual AIA Sandcastle Competition It doesn't get much better than a day at the beach. At the 32nd Annual AIA Sandcastle Competition, witness 60 teams of sand architects erect impressive structures along the Galveston waterfront. Entrants spend months preparing for this competition in hopes of winning the coveted Golden Bucket. There are many other awards, too, including the best traditional sand castle and the best Houston-centric entry. The event, held at East Beach in Galveston on Aug. 25, is a fundraiser for AIA Houston and ArCH Foundation. Houston Symphony: Viva Las Vegas Join the Houston Symphony at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for a night celebrating golden-age Las Vegas. The orchestra will get you up and out of your seats to the tunes of Elvis, the sweet swing of Sinatra, and all the other crooners who made Sin City famous. The event starts at 8 p.m. on Aug. 31. Orchestra seating is $20, but the mezzanine and lawn seating is free. This Vegas-themed show is only the opening night for the Symphony's Pops program that also includes the music of ABBA, the Songbook of Ella Fitzgerald, and many more. Houston Restaurant Weeks One of the most highly anticipated events in Houston, Restaurant Weeks offers specially priced lunches, brunches, and dinners at restaurants all over town and throughout the area. This event runs from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30 and is the largest fundraiser for the Houston Food Bank. Participating restaurants provide donations to the Food Bank based on the number of meals they serve from the Restaurant Weeks menu. The real benefit is that the more you eat out, the more money is raised. Since 2003, Restaurant Weeks has raised over $10 million for the Houston Food Bank. Remember to call ahead to the restaurants and confirm that their special Restaurant Weeks menu will be available. When August arrives, you know that the end of summer is fast approaching. Make the most of that last month before school starts by getting out and experiencing what Houston has to offer. Image via Flickr by martinalonso4895, used under CC BY 2.0