Plug-in hybrid vehicles are known for their ability to help car owners save money on gas. If they choose to go hybrid they are no longer forced to worry about fluctuating prices or finding the most cost effective service station in their local area. Drivers can forget about downloading those phone apps designed to locate reasonable prices or internet searches. They can relax knowing that a hefty re-charge will take them a long way. Other benefits include the fact that these cars emit fewer toxic chemicals, eliminate the need for oil and stay powered longer.
It’s no wonder as to why Kia introduced its own Plug-in hybrid to the market. The 2017 Kia Optima offers a full size economic option for drivers and is well worth a test drive. There are many reasons for drivers to get charged up about this new model. Read the rest of this entry »
4 Reasons You Should Look at a Kia Hybrid
If you’ve been debating whether to invest in a hybrid vehicle, a look at the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid should make your decision a little bit easier. With its sleek, aerodynamic exterior, its upscale interior with luxurious details, and its strong, responsive powertrain, this midsized hybrid vehicle is sure to impress even the most hybrid-skeptical shoppers. Here are four features of the Kia Optima Hybrid that make it worth a test drive.
The Luxurious Interior
The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid comes standard with quality, stylish basics like anti-stain cloth upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, and satin chrome interior door handles. Read the rest of this entry »
One of the best things about buying a brand new car is not having to stress about breakdowns and costly repairs. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t have to worry about taking your car into the dealership at all. There are several important maintenance services that your Kia requires to keep it running at its best and to protect your warranty. The 15,000-mile service is the first significant tuneup your Kia will require. Read on to learn what Kia’s 15,000-mile service package will include.
Oil Change
It’s recommended to change your Kia’s oil every 3,750 miles, so when it’s time for your 15,000 mile service, your car will be ready for its fourth lifetime oil change. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of your car’s engine, and it’s important to replace it regularly to ensure that the oil is clean and lubricating properly. This simple maintenance task goes a long way to keeping your car running smoothly and maximizing its lifespan. Read the rest of this entry »
Where to Walk Your Dog Around Orangeburg, SC
If you live near Orangeburg, South Carolina, you are fortunate to live in one of the premier outdoor areas of the United States. The region is known for its hunting parks and open policies, and dog-friendly attractions are easy to find.
Edisto Memorial Gardens
Located in the city limits of Orangeburg, just four blocks from the city center on US Highway 301, the Edisto Memorial Gardens is a can’t miss attraction for pets and owners alike. Visitors come from all over the country to view over 57 varieties of roses. The Horne Wetland Park, with its 2,600 foot boardwalk, is the crown jewel of the gardens. The main path follows the Edisto River, one of the longest blackwater rivers in the United States.
Music fans in Columbia, South Carolina, are lucky. With venues ranging from the enormous 18,000-seat Colonial Life Arena to more intimate venues like USC’s Koger Center for the Arts and Music Farm, as well as an annual state fair that has attracted such diverse acts as The Roots, Miranda Lambert, and Gladys Knight, there is no shortage of big-name musicians to catch in this charming South Carolina city. Here are some of the performances you shouldn’t miss this fall.
Rock Out With Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alabama at the State Fair
Classic rock fans will relish the opportunity to see Southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alabama this October at the South Carolina State Fair. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s lineup will include original member Gary Rossington as well as Johnny Van Zant, younger brother of original singer and founder Ronnie Van Zant. For Alabama, the fair will be the end cap to their 2016 “Southern Drawl” tour — and if their nearly sold-out 2015 tour is any indication, it’s not a performance you’ll want to miss.
Lynyrd Skynyrd will be playing Friday, October 14 at 7 p.m., and Alabama takes the stage on Wednesday, October 19 at 7 p.m. Tickets for the Friday show are $30, while the Alabama concert on Wednesday will run you $40. Tickets to either include admission to the fair, which is typically $10, so head to the fairgrounds before the show to enjoy the attractions and get the most bang for your buck.
6 Fall Activities to Do in Orangeburg, SC
Just because summer is coming to an end in Orangeburg doesn’t mean fun activities around town are also stopping. As the weather begins to cool, head out and enjoy some of these excellent fall activities in and around Orangeburg.
1. Orangeburg County Fair
Celebrate the Orangeburg County Fair from Oct. 3 to 9. Along with carnival rides, games, and food, you’ll also find performers, livestock shows and competitions, and a craft fair. There are classic rides like the carousel and Ferris wheel, kiddie rides for the little ones, and thrill rides for those looking for a little more excitement. If you need a break from the rides, walk through the barns and check out the cows, goats, sheep, and horses, or relax in one of the pavilions to enjoy live music.
The 5 Most Fuel-Efficient 2017 Kia Vehicles
If you’re looking to save money at the gas pump, a fuel-efficient vehicle is the way to go. Luckily, there are plenty of vehicles from Kia that get great gas mileage. Check out one of these most fuel-efficient 2017 Kia vehicles.
1. Niro
The new Kia Niro marks an exciting step forward in the world of hybrid crossover SUVs. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and small electric motor combine to generate 195 pound-feet of torque and 146 horsepower. This lets you get around 50 mpg in a mixed cycle. To help boost efficiency, the Niro uses new technology called Predictive Energy Control. This system works with the cruise control and navigation systems to detect changes in topography and figure out the best time to charge the battery.
4 Warning Signs Your Car Needs a Mechanic
Sometimes you hear a weird sound coming from your car or see a warning light pop up on your dashboard and you’re not sure if it’s something serious enough to see a mechanic. However, if you notice one of the following warning signs, you need to make an appointment with your mechanic right away.
1. Check Engine Light Comes On
As much as we dread seeing the check engine light come on, it’s actually giving us a chance to take care of engine issues before they become even more severe. The check engine light could signal anything from a faulty gas cap to a failing catalytic converter. If the check engine light is steady, it’s not an emergency; but you still need to see a mechanic as soon as possible. If it’s flashing, you need to have your vehicle looked at immediately so you can avoid extensive engine damage.
The Top 5 Restaurants in Columbia, SC
The restaurants around Columbia offer a variety of dining options to satisfy any craving. If you’re in the mood for a good meal, make sure you check out these top restaurants.
1. Solstice Kitchen
With its cozy atmosphere, stylish decor, and sophisticated menu, Solstice Kitchen is the restaurant you go to when you want to impress. The seasonal menu offers soups, starters, and entrées. The wine list is extensive and includes white, pink, red, and sparkling selections. You can’t go wrong with the goat cheese and bacon-tomato confit and pan-seared scallops. You can make reservations for Solstice Kitchen using OpenTable.com.
The Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Orangeburg, SC
When you’re traveling with kids, the activities and places to see are often quite different from what you’d see on a vacation with adults. Check out some of these kid-friendly activities in and around Orangeburg, South Carolina, so everyone in your family can enjoy the trip.
Orangeburg County Aquatic Center
Taking the kids to a swimming pool might seem like a daunting task, but it’s one of the best ways to cool down on a hot day and allow them to burn off some of their extra energy. Located on St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg, the aquatic center has a lazy river, rain drop fall, two slides for all ages, spider spray play area, and a bowl slide. Younger kids will enjoy playing in the tot pool, which also has its own small slide. Read the rest of this entry »
