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When it comes to maintaining your Kia, there are many exterior components that you'll want inspected for spring. Wondering which ones are at the top of the list? Here are six that you should never neglect as springtime rolls around. The Tires Changing temperatures can cause your tires to lose pressure easily, so they should always be inspected after winter. Keep in mind: Under-inflated tires don't perform as well as properly inflated ones and are very dangerous. The tire tread should also be inspected for wear, bulging, and bald spots. These conditions may signal the need for a tire rotation, wheel alignment, or tire replacement service. more If you're curious about the condition of your tires, an easy way to test tread depth is by doing the Abe Lincoln Penny Test. Simply stick a penny into the tread of a tire. If the top of Lincoln's head shows, your tires are worn and may need replacement. To confirm, always check with an automotive professional. The Windshield Wipers Chilly winter weather can do a number on windshield wipers and cause them to lose their effectiveness. If you notice that your windshield wipers are cracked, torn, cut, chattering, or streaking you'll want to have them replaced in time for spring and summer showers. If you do need new wipers, you can select ones that are optimized for warm weather conditions. This would also a great time to have your windshield washer fluid topped off. The Paint As the seasons change you may notice minor scratches, dings, or chips in your Kia's paint. If you do, be sure to have the damaged areas touched up and repaired. The spring is also a good time to have the exterior of your Kia thoroughly washed and waxed. This will not only make your car sparkle, but will also seal in the shine, protect the finish, and make future washes easier. The Shocks and Struts Although the shocks and struts are located underneath the vehicle, it's still just as important that they be inspected for spring. During the check, these components should be examined for leaking, rusting, dents, or any other signs of physical damage. If your vehicle rolls or sways when turning, sits lower in the front or rear, loses control on a sudden stop, bounces or slides sideways on windy roads, or the front end or back-end dips when braking, the shocks and struts may need replacement. The Undercarriage In fact, inspecting the entire undercarriage of your vehicle in preparation for spring is very important. If you live in a cold climate, road salt can get stuck to the undercarriage, corrode the metal, and cause rust to form. This is most likely to affect the exhaust system, muffler, coil springs, and hydraulic brake system. If you don't live in a cold climate but do live near the ocean, your vehicle's undercarriage may be at similar risk due to salt water, so you should still make it a point to have the undercarriage inspected. Ensure that your Kia stays in tip-top shape by having the tires, windshield wipers, paint, shocks and struts, and undercarriage inspected for spring.

Ft. Lauderdale is well-known for its great weather, beautiful beaches, and interesting attractions. But did you know that it was also home to a handful of excellent diners? From South Florida icons to small neighborhood hideaways, here are six diners in Ft. Lauderdale whose food, service, and atmosphere are done just right. Lester's Diner Lester's Diner is a legendary eatery with four locations and 40 years of history in the South Florida area. Well known among locals, Lester's most popular orders include the Belgian waffles, "LEO" (lox, eggs, and onion), and famous 14-ounce coffee. Getting there: Lester's Diner has locations in Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Margate, and Sunrise. To reach the Ft. Lauderdale location, take I-595 to US-1 North or I-95 to FL-84 East. To reach more the Pompano Beach location, take I-95 to FL-814/Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Margate location, take I-95 to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd or I-595 to Florida's Turnpike to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Sunrise location, take I-595 to FL-84 West. Mom's Kitchen Mom's Kitchen is a small, family-style eatery with everything you'd expect from a neighborhood diner – delicious food, friendly locals, and friendlier service. The most popular dishes include the Crunchy French Toast, blueberry pancakes, biscuits and gravy, Super Farmer's Special, and Mom's Country Breakfast. Getting there: Mom's Kitchen is located in the Coral Ridge neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-870 East or US-1. 84 Diner Known as the largest diner in South Florida, 84 Diner blends traditional American breakfast choices with a range of Greek and Italian dishes. In addition to pancakes and French toast, other popular dishes include the jalapeño omelet, meatloaf, beef kabob, and gyro. Getting there: 84 Diner is located in Davie, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-595 to FL-84 West. Andrew's Diner Andrew's Diner is a much-loved eatery with 20 years of history in South Florida and an unshakeable reputation for excellent food. For those who love breakfast, the most popular dishes include eggs Benedict, pancakes, and biscuits.  For those who prefer lunch or dinner options, the most popular dishes include the turkey club and beef stew special. Getting there: Andrew's Diner is located in Wilton Manors, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. The Floridian The Floridian is a South Florida dining icon with hearty food, a lovable atmosphere, and a long list of celebrity patrons. Popular dishes include diner favorites like pancakes and French toast, as well as unique Floridian offerings like the buffalo burger, crab omelet, and smoked salmon Benedict. Getting there: The Floridian is located on the famed Las Olas Boulevard in Ft. Lauderdale and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-842 East/West Broward Blvd. or by taking US-1 to Las Olas Blvd. Peter Pan Diner True to its name, Peter Pan Diner is magical for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. As one of the most popular restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale, the diner offers a wide selection of favorites that include the Gyro Omelet and Feta Cheeseburger. Getting there: Peter Pan Diner is located in the Oakland Park neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. Whether you're in need of a delicious breakfast to start your day or a hearty dinner to close your evening, these six Ft. Lauderdale diners won't disappoint.

Ft. Lauderdale is well-known for its great weather, beautiful beaches, and interesting attractions. But did you know that it was also home to a handful of excellent diners? From South Florida icons to small neighborhood hideaways, here are six diners in Ft. Lauderdale whose food, service, and atmosphere are done just right. Lester's Diner Lester's Diner is a legendary eatery with four locations and 40 years of history in the South Florida area. Well known among locals, Lester's most popular orders include the Belgian waffles, "LEO" (lox, eggs, and onion), and famous 14-ounce coffee. Getting there: Lester's Diner has locations in Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Margate, and Sunrise. To reach the Ft. Lauderdale location, take I-595 to US-1 North or I-95 to FL-84 East. To reach more the Pompano Beach location, take I-95 to FL-814/Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Margate location, take I-95 to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd or I-595 to Florida's Turnpike to FL-814/West Atlantic Blvd. To reach the Sunrise location, take I-595 to FL-84 West. Mom's Kitchen Mom's Kitchen is a small, family-style eatery with everything you'd expect from a neighborhood diner – delicious food, friendly locals, and friendlier service. The most popular dishes include the Crunchy French Toast, blueberry pancakes, biscuits and gravy, Super Farmer's Special, and Mom's Country Breakfast. Getting there: Mom's Kitchen is located in the Coral Ridge neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-870 East or US-1. 84 Diner Known as the largest diner in South Florida, 84 Diner blends traditional American breakfast choices with a range of Greek and Italian dishes. In addition to pancakes and French toast, other popular dishes include the jalapeño omelet, meatloaf, beef kabob, and gyro. Getting there: 84 Diner is located in Davie, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-595 to FL-84 West. Andrew's Diner Andrew's Diner is a much-loved eatery with 20 years of history in South Florida and an unshakeable reputation for excellent food. For those who love breakfast, the most popular dishes include eggs Benedict, pancakes, and biscuits.  For those who prefer lunch or dinner options, the most popular dishes include the turkey club and beef stew special. Getting there: Andrew's Diner is located in Wilton Manors, Fla., and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. The Floridian The Floridian is a South Florida dining icon with hearty food, a lovable atmosphere, and a long list of celebrity patrons. Popular dishes include diner favorites like pancakes and French toast, as well as unique Floridian offerings like the buffalo burger, crab omelet, and smoked salmon Benedict. Getting there: The Floridian is located on the famed Las Olas Boulevard in Ft. Lauderdale and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-842 East/West Broward Blvd. or by taking US-1 to Las Olas Blvd. Peter Pan Diner True to its name, Peter Pan Diner is magical for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. As one of the most popular restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale, the diner offers a wide selection of favorites that include the Gyro Omelet and Feta Cheeseburger. Getting there: Peter Pan Diner is located in the Oakland Park neighborhood and can be reached by taking I-95 to FL-816 East. Whether you're in need of a delicious breakfast to start your day or a hearty dinner to close your evening, these six Ft. Lauderdale diners won't disappoint.

In preparation for spring, it's important that you have many of your Kia's interior features inspected. Not sure which ones to have checked? Here's a list of six that you won't want to forget. The Fluids Don't wait until a warning light comes on to check your fluids – especially your engine oil, power steering fluid, brake and transmission fluids, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze/coolant. Make it a point to have the levels inspected before spring and topped off, if necessary. The professional should also ensure that the radiator and gas caps are sealed properly and that the inside more gaskets are secure. If they're not, have them replaced. Follow up a fluid check by changing the oil and air filters. You can opt for a recommended warm weather oil to keep your Kia operating at peak efficiency. The Battery Car batteries work harder during the winter, especially if temperatures drop very low. For this reason, be sure to have the battery connections inspected as springtime rolls around. Keep in mind: The connections should be tight and corrosion-free. The battery's charge should also be checked. If you've had the same car battery for many years, you may need a replacement. If you're unsure, consult with your automotive professional. The Brakes Brakes are a critical part of safe vehicle operation and should definitely be examined for spring. As part of this examination, listen for any strange brake noises like grinding or squealing. A professional should also check the amount of wear on the pads, drums, and rotors. If any of these are especially worn, a replacement will likely be necessary. The Air Conditioner If air conditioning is important to you during the warmer months, be sure to have your AC system inspected for spring. This inspection should include checking the compressor belt for cracks, frays, and other damage, ensuring that the compressor turns on, and ensuring that it produces cool air. It's also crucial that refrigerant levels be checked and topped off, if necessary. The Hoses and Belts Hoses and belts are important parts of your vehicle's electrical, cooling, and climate control systems, and changing temperatures cause them to wear. Because of this, you'll want to have these components checked in preparation for spring. To inspect the hoses, a professional will squeeze them while the engine is warm. If they're soft, they'll need replacing. To inspect the belts, a professional will turn off the engine and pull on them to test tightness. If the belts are loose, they'll need replacing. The Seats and Carpets Inspect and clean the seats, vacuum dirt and debris from carpets, remove and clean floor mats, wipe down the steering wheel and dashboard, and remove empty bottles and other trash from the vehicle. If you have leather seats and furnishings, treat them with cleaner to keep them looking and feeling their best. While you're tidying up, you can also remove any unnecessary junk from your trunk to lighten your load and improve fuel efficiency. Keep your Kia running smoothly by having the fluids, battery, air conditioner, hoses, and belts inspected for spring. Photo by Kia

In preparation for spring, it's important that you have many of your Kia's interior features inspected. Not sure which ones to have checked? Here's a list of six that you won't want to forget. The Fluids Don't wait until a warning light comes on to check your fluids – especially your engine oil, power steering fluid, brake and transmission fluids, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze/coolant. Make it a point to have the levels inspected before spring and topped off, if necessary. The professional should also ensure that the radiator and gas caps are sealed properly and that the inside more gaskets are secure. If they're not, have them replaced. Follow up a fluid check by changing the oil and air filters. You can opt for a recommended warm weather oil to keep your Kia operating at peak efficiency. The Battery Car batteries work harder during the winter, especially if temperatures drop very low. For this reason, be sure to have the battery connections inspected as springtime rolls around. Keep in mind: The connections should be tight and corrosion-free. The battery's charge should also be checked. If you've had the same car battery for many years, you may need a replacement. If you're unsure, consult with your automotive professional. The Brakes Brakes are a critical part of safe vehicle operation and should definitely be examined for spring. As part of this examination, listen for any strange brake noises like grinding or squealing. A professional should also check the amount of wear on the pads, drums, and rotors. If any of these are especially worn, a replacement will likely be necessary. The Air Conditioner If air conditioning is important to you during the warmer months, be sure to have your AC system inspected for spring. This inspection should include checking the compressor belt for cracks, frays, and other damage, ensuring that the compressor turns on, and ensuring that it produces cool air. It's also crucial that refrigerant levels be checked and topped off, if necessary. The Hoses and Belts Hoses and belts are important parts of your vehicle's electrical, cooling, and climate control systems, and changing temperatures cause them to wear. Because of this, you'll want to have these components checked in preparation for spring. To inspect the hoses, a professional will squeeze them while the engine is warm. If they're soft, they'll need replacing. To inspect the belts, a professional will turn off the engine and pull on them to test tightness. If the belts are loose, they'll need replacing. The Seats and Carpets Inspect and clean the seats, vacuum dirt and debris from carpets, remove and clean floor mats, wipe down the steering wheel and dashboard, and remove empty bottles and other trash from the vehicle. If you have leather seats and furnishings, treat them with cleaner to keep them looking and feeling their best. While you're tidying up, you can also remove any unnecessary junk from your trunk to lighten your load and improve fuel efficiency. Keep your Kia running smoothly by having the fluids, battery, air conditioner, hoses, and belts inspected for spring. Photo by Kia

With plenty of waterways, nightlife, restaurants, and wildlife in Fort Lauderdale, it's not hard to find something unique to share with your Valentine's date. If you're tired of the same-old activities you repeat year after year, take a look at these four options that can help spark some ideas for a more inspiring Valentine's Day. Lovers Rock Affair Yes, a quiet dinner with relaxing piano music playing in the background is romantic, but for those who'd rather spice things up, there's the Lovers Rock Affair hosted by Chef TY Catering & Patisserie. After a successful first event in 2016, it's back a second time in 2017. more The event takes place from 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 to noon on Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Club. Disc jockey Neil Diamond will have you rocking through the night into the wee hours of the morning. Admission is $100 for two and includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise What's more romantic than a gentle cruise aboard a stately riverboat? The Jungle Queen Riverboat will roll along Fort Lauderdale's rivers and canals, which are often dubbed the Venice of America. There are a few cruises to choose from. The Dinner and Show Cruise treats you to an all-you-can-eat dinner with live entertainment and a variety show. If you're a couple who loves nature and wildlife, opt for the Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise and Tropical Isle Tour. You'll get to explore the lush Tropical Isle, where you can watch an alligator show; see exotic birds, lemurs, and monkeys; and even hold a baby alligator. Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Show If you're looking for a change to boring, run-of-the-mill dinner dates, add some Polynesian flair to your night out. At Mai-Kai Polynesian restaurant, the music and dancing that epitomizes South Pacific culture come alive in spectacular fashion with brightly colored costumes, fire dancers, and spirited drumming. The entertainment is captivating – you'll find yourself engrossed in the story of the Hawaiian Wedding song, in which two young lovers are separated and then reunited in marriage. There are two shows every evening Monday through Friday and three on Saturdays, with dinner served before the show. Use this as an excuse to dress up, as no hats, T-shirts, tank tops, beach shorts, or flip-flops are allowed. Run the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K Couples who run together have fun together. If you and your partner are always on the lookout for things that get you moving, then enter the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K run, which takes place on Saturday, Feb. 18. Last year, the 5K took place on Feb. 14 and was called the Valentine's 5K Race, and saw 800 runners pound the streets of Las Olas Boulevard. If a 5K is not challenging enough, there's also the 13.1-mile half marathon and 26.2-mile full marathon. If you'd rather get your heart pumping with a run instead of chocolates and roses, don't miss this one! Ban the boring Valentine's activities and find some exciting things to do with your loved one. If you're going to celebrate the day of love, make it a memorable one.

With plenty of waterways, nightlife, restaurants, and wildlife in Fort Lauderdale, it's not hard to find something unique to share with your Valentine's date. If you're tired of the same-old activities you repeat year after year, take a look at these four options that can help spark some ideas for a more inspiring Valentine's Day. Lovers Rock Affair Yes, a quiet dinner with relaxing piano music playing in the background is romantic, but for those who'd rather spice things up, there's the Lovers Rock Affair hosted by Chef TY Catering & Patisserie. After a successful first event in 2016, it's back a second time in 2017. more The event takes place from 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 to noon on Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Club. Disc jockey Neil Diamond will have you rocking through the night into the wee hours of the morning. Admission is $100 for two and includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise What's more romantic than a gentle cruise aboard a stately riverboat? The Jungle Queen Riverboat will roll along Fort Lauderdale's rivers and canals, which are often dubbed the Venice of America. There are a few cruises to choose from. The Dinner and Show Cruise treats you to an all-you-can-eat dinner with live entertainment and a variety show. If you're a couple who loves nature and wildlife, opt for the Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise and Tropical Isle Tour. You'll get to explore the lush Tropical Isle, where you can watch an alligator show; see exotic birds, lemurs, and monkeys; and even hold a baby alligator. Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Show If you're looking for a change to boring, run-of-the-mill dinner dates, add some Polynesian flair to your night out. At Mai-Kai Polynesian restaurant, the music and dancing that epitomizes South Pacific culture come alive in spectacular fashion with brightly colored costumes, fire dancers, and spirited drumming. The entertainment is captivating – you'll find yourself engrossed in the story of the Hawaiian Wedding song, in which two young lovers are separated and then reunited in marriage. There are two shows every evening Monday through Friday and three on Saturdays, with dinner served before the show. Use this as an excuse to dress up, as no hats, T-shirts, tank tops, beach shorts, or flip-flops are allowed. Run the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K Couples who run together have fun together. If you and your partner are always on the lookout for things that get you moving, then enter the Fort Lauderdale A1A 5K run, which takes place on Saturday, Feb. 18. Last year, the 5K took place on Feb. 14 and was called the Valentine's 5K Race, and saw 800 runners pound the streets of Las Olas Boulevard. If a 5K is not challenging enough, there's also the 13.1-mile half marathon and 26.2-mile full marathon. If you'd rather get your heart pumping with a run instead of chocolates and roses, don't miss this one! Ban the boring Valentine's activities and find some exciting things to do with your loved one. If you're going to celebrate the day of love, make it a memorable one.

The Kia Rio Sedan is a simple subcompact sedan with a sleek design and surprisingly roomy backseat for a small sedan. It comes with peace of mind too — Kia is so confident in the durability of its cars that it offers an industry-leading extended powertrain warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. For 2017, Kia has dropped the SX model from the sedan lineup, leaving you with two trim levels to choose from. Rio LX Both trims come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. It may not be the most powerful engine out there, but it does have remarkably more quick acceleration compared to others in its class. The LX comes with a six-speed manual transmission, although you have the option of an automatic transmission. The entry-level LX features 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, variable intermittent wipers, heated power mirrors, and locking fuel-filler door. Solar control glass on the windshield and front passenger windows help keep the interior cooler in summer, and heated rear glass with a timer defrost ice and melt snow in winter. Expect simplicity in the interior — materials are understated, and gauges and controls are uncomplicated. The interior features air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-only steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio buttons, glove box illumination, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Onboard technology includes a trip computer, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, and a four-speaker sound system. Standard safety features on both models include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, and tire pressure monitoring system. Want to take things up a notch? An available Power Package adds keyless entry and power windows and door locks, automatic transmission, and Bluetooth connectivity. Rio EX There are only four color choices on the LX, but you get eight on the EX. You also get automatic transmission, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome grille surround, premium cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, map lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, a soft-touch dash, padded armrests on the front doors, a sliding center console armrest with storage, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker audio system. Choosing the optional Eco Package means you lose a few of the above features in favor of the fuel-saving automatic engine stop-start system, automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and Kia's UVO 7-inch digital touch-screen infotainment system. Fuel economy is average on the Rio Sedan, and the Eco Package gets you a little extra mileage — 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Prefer a snazzier interior? The EX's Designer Package features attractive seating with two-tone black cloth teamed with gray leather inserts and gray accent stitching. The Rio is a conservative sedan, but it offers enough basic features, a good quality interior, and excellent value at an unbeatable price. It's built to last, too, so you can keep driving your Rio long after you've paid the final installment. Photo by Kia

The Kia Rio Sedan is a simple subcompact sedan with a sleek design and surprisingly roomy backseat for a small sedan. It comes with peace of mind too — Kia is so confident in the durability of its cars that it offers an industry-leading extended powertrain warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. For 2017, Kia has dropped the SX model from the sedan lineup, leaving you with two trim levels to choose from. Rio LX Both trims come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. It may not be the most powerful engine out there, but it does have remarkably more quick acceleration compared to others in its class. The LX comes with a six-speed manual transmission, although you have the option of an automatic transmission. The entry-level LX features 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, variable intermittent wipers, heated power mirrors, and locking fuel-filler door. Solar control glass on the windshield and front passenger windows help keep the interior cooler in summer, and heated rear glass with a timer defrost ice and melt snow in winter. Expect simplicity in the interior — materials are understated, and gauges and controls are uncomplicated. The interior features air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-only steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio buttons, glove box illumination, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Onboard technology includes a trip computer, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, and a four-speaker sound system. Standard safety features on both models include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, and tire pressure monitoring system. Want to take things up a notch? An available Power Package adds keyless entry and power windows and door locks, automatic transmission, and Bluetooth connectivity. Rio EX There are only four color choices on the LX, but you get eight on the EX. You also get automatic transmission, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome grille surround, premium cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, map lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, a soft-touch dash, padded armrests on the front doors, a sliding center console armrest with storage, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker audio system. Choosing the optional Eco Package means you lose a few of the above features in favor of the fuel-saving automatic engine stop-start system, automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and Kia's UVO 7-inch digital touch-screen infotainment system. Fuel economy is average on the Rio Sedan, and the Eco Package gets you a little extra mileage — 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Prefer a snazzier interior? The EX's Designer Package features attractive seating with two-tone black cloth teamed with gray leather inserts and gray accent stitching. The Rio is a conservative sedan, but it offers enough basic features, a good quality interior, and excellent value at an unbeatable price. It's built to last, too, so you can keep driving your Rio long after you've paid the final installment. Photo by Kia

The fourth-generation Kia Rio five-door hatchback is a fun-to-drive sassy little subcompact car. The new 2017 model has grown up – it's swapped its cutesy look for slicker, sportier styling. It's slightly longer, wider, and lower with sculpted aerodynamic body lines and a redesigned front with Kia's distinctive tiger-nose grille. The Kia Rio is available in three trims: LX, EX, and SX. Rio LX All three models feature the same mechanical specs: front-wheel drive with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-wheel anti-lock disc braking system. Also standard across all three models is Kia's Sportmatic six-speed automatic transmission, which gives drivers the option of easily switching to manual if desired. more The interior of the 2017 Rio has undergone significant changes. It's done away with the cheap-looking plastic dashboard. In its place is a more modern-looking panel that's angled toward the driver and features a floating touch-screen display in the center. In terms of safety, the Rio hatchback received a four-star rating for overall crash protection in government tests. All three models come standard with electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, and hill-start assist. The LX trim features black mesh radiator grille, 15-inch steel wheels, tilt steering column, woven cloth upholstery, and four-way speaker audio system. Rio EX Moving up to the EX, you'll find the black mesh grille is now surrounded with chrome. Additional external features include projector beam fog lights and 15-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, premium cloth trim, center console with sliding arm rest, and a six-speaker audio system with A-Pillar-Mounted tweeters. The EX ups the convenience with steering-wheel-mounted cruise control buttons, power windows with convenient driver's one-touch auto-up/down, and power door locks with keyless remote. Extra refinements in the EX include a hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with matching gearshift knob, LED map lights, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, and soft-touch dash. The cargo under-floor tray with net is a handy feature – hidden beneath the floor, it helps you store items neatly and out of sight. Fuel efficiency is similar on all three trims at 30 mpg combined, but the EX model features Kia's eco-friendly Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system, bringing the fuel efficiency rating up to 31 mpg. Rio SX Giving the SX a design edge is 17-inch alloy wheels, LED positioning lights that shimmer below the headlights, and LED rear combination lamps. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, aluminum pedals, and a supervision meter cluster add to the sportiness. If you're looking for more responsive handling, the SX model with sport-tuned suspension is the one to go for. Extra features on the SX trim include a rear-view camera, outside power-folding mirrors with turn-signal indicators, power sunroof, projector beam headlights, and auto light control. Seating is more upscale, with leather upholstery and heated front seats, and technology upgrades include a 7-inch touch screen with voice-command navigation, satellite and HD radio, and UVO infotainment system. As an entry-level car and with a starting price of $15,495 for the LX and up to $20,905 for the SX, the Kia Rio is a nicely designed vehicle at an affordable price.   Photo by Kia

The fourth-generation Kia Rio five-door hatchback is a fun-to-drive sassy little subcompact car. The new 2017 model has grown up – it's swapped its cutesy look for slicker, sportier styling. It's slightly longer, wider, and lower with sculpted aerodynamic body lines and a redesigned front with Kia's distinctive tiger-nose grille. The Kia Rio is available in three trims: LX, EX, and SX. Rio LX All three models feature the same mechanical specs: front-wheel drive with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-wheel anti-lock disc braking system. Also standard across all three models is Kia's Sportmatic six-speed automatic transmission, which gives drivers the option of easily switching to manual if desired. more The interior of the 2017 Rio has undergone significant changes. It's done away with the cheap-looking plastic dashboard. In its place is a more modern-looking panel that's angled toward the driver and features a floating touch-screen display in the center. In terms of safety, the Rio hatchback received a four-star rating for overall crash protection in government tests. All three models come standard with electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, and hill-start assist. The LX trim features black mesh radiator grille, 15-inch steel wheels, tilt steering column, woven cloth upholstery, and four-way speaker audio system. Rio EX Moving up to the EX, you'll find the black mesh grille is now surrounded with chrome. Additional external features include projector beam fog lights and 15-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, premium cloth trim, center console with sliding arm rest, and a six-speaker audio system with A-Pillar-Mounted tweeters. The EX ups the convenience with steering-wheel-mounted cruise control buttons, power windows with convenient driver's one-touch auto-up/down, and power door locks with keyless remote. Extra refinements in the EX include a hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with matching gearshift knob, LED map lights, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, and soft-touch dash. The cargo under-floor tray with net is a handy feature – hidden beneath the floor, it helps you store items neatly and out of sight. Fuel efficiency is similar on all three trims at 30 mpg combined, but the EX model features Kia's eco-friendly Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system, bringing the fuel efficiency rating up to 31 mpg. Rio SX Giving the SX a design edge is 17-inch alloy wheels, LED positioning lights that shimmer below the headlights, and LED rear combination lamps. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, aluminum pedals, and a supervision meter cluster add to the sportiness. If you're looking for more responsive handling, the SX model with sport-tuned suspension is the one to go for. Extra features on the SX trim include a rear-view camera, outside power-folding mirrors with turn-signal indicators, power sunroof, projector beam headlights, and auto light control. Seating is more upscale, with leather upholstery and heated front seats, and technology upgrades include a 7-inch touch screen with voice-command navigation, satellite and HD radio, and UVO infotainment system. As an entry-level car and with a starting price of $15,495 for the LX and up to $20,905 for the SX, the Kia Rio is a nicely designed vehicle at an affordable price.   Photo by Kia

In an effort to encourage motorists to buy eco-friendly electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, the United States government implemented tax credits and rebates for owners of green cars. It helps offset the initial purchase, as buying electric vehicles usually costs more than gasoline cars, plus requires the installation of home charging units. If you're the new proud owner of a Kia Soul EV, congratulations – you've just bought one of the best electric vehicles on the market. In addition, you now qualify for some awesome benefits that come with owning an electric car. more Federal Tax Credit In 2010, federal tax credits came into effect for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles that were purchased in or after 2010. The credit amount varies from $2,500 to $7,500 based on the car's battery size. The Kia Soul EV qualifies for the maximum credit of $7,500. This could be in the form of a tax refund at the end of the year or, alternatively, deducted off the purchase price at the time of buying the car. So with a starting price of $33,950 for the 2016 standard model, you'll end up paying $26,450 once you deduct the $7,500. Important to bear in mind, though, is that depending on what your tax bill is at the end of the year, you may not receive the full $7,500. If your tax bill is less than $7,500, you will only be paid that amount. For instance, if you owe Uncle Sam $5,000, that's all Uncle Sam will refund you. You will not receive the extra $2,500, nor will it be carried over to the following tax year. State Incentives In addition to the federal program, there are also dozens of state and regional incentives on electric and plug-in vehicles. Incentive programs vary, so you will have to find out what applies to your state. Credits can come in the form of exemption from inspections, reduced registration fees, lower vehicle tax, or nonmonetary incentives such as access to the carpool (HOV) lane and free parking. In California, for example, people who buy or lease certain electric cars can get a cash rebate up front in addition to the annual federal tax credit. Manufacturer Rebates Kia offers several manufacturer-to-customer rebates and incentive programs. When buying your vehicle, be sure to inquire about these. You could benefit from cash rebates directly at the point of sale, low-interest financing, and special leases. Cash rebates can either be given directly to the customer or be used as part of the vehicle's down payment. Either way, it helps lower the net price of the vehicle. If you find it all a little confusing, consult an accountant who can help you claim the correct tax credit you qualify for and assist in filing the Qualified Electric Vehicle Credit form. Note that the federal tax incentive program will eventually be phased out as sales of EVs and PHEVs reach the specified cap – which is around 200,000 vehicles sold per manufacturer. So if you haven't taken the leap to electric yet, visit your Kia dealer now and take advantage of these benefits while they're still in place.   Photo by Kia