Explore Your Car - 2018 Updates in Popular KIA Models

KIA is constantly making upgrades and improvements to its range of cars, whether it be added features, additions, design improvements or engine specifications. It’s always interesting to see how these changes develop over time, as they are often made as a response to feedback from the previous year and to ensure various models are appropriate for their target market. While 2018 has seen fewer changes than last year, there has been some addition to some of KIA’s biggest car models. This article will have a look at a few of the changes, updates and improvements that we saw between last year’s and 2018’s KIA cars.

KIA Soul

The 2018 KIA Soul was actually very similar to last year’s model, with only a few minor changes being added. This followed the transition between the 2016 and 2017 models, which included the lower price-tag, a bigger engine and various other refinements. Sales numbers improved significantly and KIA has decided to stick with what works in the case of its funky, small SUV. The 2018 model has been highly reviewed, with critics often remarking that it has incredible value for its price. 

One of the biggest changes in 2018 is the additional colour offered, which is called Wild Orange. Always an option if you’re feeling adventurous! Some of the additional gadgets packed into the 2018 Soul include an upgraded infotainment system, which caters to both Apple and Android devices - automatic climate control is also included in this. Some of the other features include heated back seats and steering wheel, and LED lighting on the outside of the vehicle.

KIA Sportage

Again, the Sportage saw big changes from 2016 to 2017, mainly in terms of its appearance. It was made longer, making the interior more spacious. There were also a bunch of improvements made to handling, suspension and steering, with software and infotainment upgrades included to boot.

This time around, the changes have been less dramatic. The 2018 Sportage resembles the 2017 model with the same long body and styling. However, this model has added safety features and introduced lower trims, as well as improving on various standard features. This has had the effect of bumping up the base prices slightly, although the consumer has more choice in terms of options packages.

KIA Optima

KIA’s award-winning midsize sedan, the Optima, remains one of the most competitive models in the segment. The 2018 version has seen various improvements and has largely been rejuvenated, with technology and safety upgrades coming without a significant bump in the price.

The five trim levels on offer include the stylish, all-new KIA Optima S, which was not present in the 2017 line-up. It comes with a sports bumper, spoiler, LED tail and fog lights, with a panoramic moonroof to top it off. The 2018 Optima improves on its predecessor’s safety and entertainment features. Added to the long list of features are Rear parking assist, Blind Spot Detection and a Cross Traffic Alert system, all included as standard. Add to that Kia UVO eServices technology as standard - with a touchscreen and Apple/Android connectivity for all your infotainment needs.

Come down to Chadstone KIA and check out the all-new Optima, Soul and Sportage today! You can browse through our website or get in touch with us directly for more information. 

3 Accessories That Can Secure Car To The Next Level

Auto security systems and technology have come a long way over the past decade, making it more difficult for car thieves to steal vehicles and get away with it. Most modern cars come complete with a range of innovative security features. Older cars, however, may be more vulnerable and it can be a good idea to install separate safety KIA accessories to ensure your vehicle is protected. Let’s take a look at three basic but very important safety accessories that should set up on your car.

Glass Break Sensor

An add-on to a standard car alarm, a glass break sensor is a safety accessory that gives your vehicle that little extra security in the unlikely case that someone tries to break the window of your vehicle. Picking up sound waves that are created when the glass is broken, this device triggers the car alarm. This is a handy security feature that is standard in a lot of new cars.

There have been complaints from car owners in the past pointing out that these devices are too sensitive and will set off the alarm at the drop of a hat, so to speak. Technology has improved to make glass break sensors more sophisticated and can be combined with shock impact sensors, so they only go off when it is necessary.

GPS device

As well as a means of finding your way around, having a GPS tracking device installed can help you locate a stolen vehicle. Obviously, you’d be better off if your car wasn’t jacked in the first place, but on more than one occasion, car thieves have been tracked down as a result of a GPS tracker. Modern systems will speak to your phone and transmit their location and in which direction it is moving. So if your car does get stolen, you can notify the police and provide its exact whereabouts, making it more likely they retrieve it for you.

Starter Disable

A starter disable works by breaking the electrical circuit or connection that is necessary to start up the car when someone turns the ignition. This makes it impossible to start up the car without breaking the starter disable or in some cases flipping over the switch, which can often be hidden anywhere around the car. Other devices are activated when the car alarm goes off.

While it’s true that some car thieves will be able to disable such a device, it is decidedly more complicated and takes more time. This can be a source of frustration and pressure for a would-be car thief, especially when the alarm has been set off. Most auto electricians will be able to install a starter disable on your car for a relatively low cost.

You can check out the full range of KIA accessories available online or at any KIA dealer. Speak to the team at Chadstone KIA for more information.

10 Technologies Which will Make You an Innovative Car Owner

In early 18th century cars were used for transportation then it became a symbol of taste and family status. But now car is a necessity and we have to spend nearly 20-25% of the day in a car. A statistics shows that, the average driver logs 13,476 miles per year (37 miles a day) and spend 50 hours a year in traffic jam which has doubled in last 30 years.
Essentially your cars are becoming the second home. So it’s not enough anymore to design standard functional cars that only performs all the traditional automobile tasks. We need our cars to be smart, easy to use, and comfortable with all the new technology in it. For this reason automakers and tech companies have been designing innovative car features time to time to improve your driving experience.
Here are 10 Technologies which will make you an innovative Car Owner -

Car to Car Communication

Vehicle to vehicle or car to car communication is a new step taken by the tech experts in the car technology world. It’s a process to inform other vehicles about your position or speed once the vehicles are connected with each other to avoid crashes. They can also change their route if necessary based on real time information. This can help reduce traffic in case of accidents or natural calamities or other road issues.

Stress detecting Car: Really!

A car seat capable of detecting your stress was unveiled during a Connected Car expo in Los Angeles in November, 2015. This was developed for the drivers to keep them focused and comfortable. This cars can measure factors like heart rate, stress level and employ counter measurements such as activating massage therapy. Car will notify the driver if he/she wants to activate it or not. Isn’t it incredible? So why spend extra money when you can get a free message from your car!

Cars with Advanced Touch Screen display

Automobile manufacturers have already made cars smart and easier to use. Touch screen display is one of them. It’s just like an I-pad. These screens accommodate you with video chats, video games, information about your car. This feature might still be a perk but soon it will become an expected necessity.

Driver-less Car: Wait What!

The driverless car is not a new thing on the plate because Google launched its self-driving cars almost 7 years ago. But it’s taking a lot more time to go mainstream. Well, nothing happens for no reason. The most vital issue with these cars was their slow speed. But these cars are very unlikely to make any mistakes. Though it’s a software and no human would be in charge of it, it can be risky people says but you have to take some risks if you want a better life. Isn’t it!!

Digital Dashboard

Suppose you are traveling and you need to find a hotel nearby. What are you going to do? First thing that will cross your mind is to take your smart phone and search for it or use the GPS. If you are driving you might fumble with your phone and might happen any bad occurrence. But what if your car system is linked to whatever cloud service you are using on your smartphone or tablets allowing you to keep up with texts or calls or mails and you just open an app of your need with voice command and search for whatever you need. Visioning this, by 2020 your car dashboard will resemble a giant iPad with a voice controlled system. These digital dashboards may turn your smartphone into a wireless router or they can connect it with Bluetooth device like Kia’s UVO.

Wi-Fi

Most of the technologies that we are thinking our future car should have or can make us an innovative car owner won’t even work if the car does not have a hotspot. Technologists are expecting to boast over 10 million vehicles with WI-Fi technology by 2021. Having Wi-Fi built into your car has its own unique advantage. In comparison to your cell phone's hotspot, the car will have a bigger antenna and stronger signal which will results in much enjoyment for others and the driver will get time to time updates of the condition of the roads. But what do you think apart from all the advantages, is it safe for the driver as everyone is addicted to social media activities? Well, every good thing comes with some bad thing which we eventually have to learn to avoid for our own safety.

Bio-metric Vehicle Access

There was a time when keys were used to open cars locks but now we have seen the evolution from using the key to being keyless. And now the tech experts are working on more advanced systems like fingerprint or retina scanner to open your car lock which can help to reduce car hijacking. This technology sounds familiar and easy too as people are also using this on their smart phones. So why not use it for our cars to take it to a next level?

Smart Cars like Smart Phones

Smart phone was like a dream in the past but it's reality now. Soon smart cars will be a part of our day to day life. Google launched its Android Auto (a telematics software) to connect with the car’s dashboard. Bunch of car makers like Kia, Jeep, Ford, Fiat, Infiniti, Volvo etc. are interested to use Android Auto in their cars. It can give the drivers access to GPS, maps, Streaming music, weather etc. Apple is certainly not lacking behind in this technology. Apple’s software ‘Car Play’ was liked by some big branded car makers like BMW, JLR, Honda and Hyundai.

Precollision Technology

A pre-collision assist and pedestrian detection technology have been developed by top car makers like Hyundai and Ford. If the driver is asleep or not focusing on the road then this software will alert the driver. This software can also apply the break system if the driver does not respond to the warning.

Solar Car Chargers

Solar Panels can charge your car battery, power the air condition or the infotainment system at long as its sunny outside. This can also improve your car’s mileage.

7 Tips for Safe Auto Travel During the Summer

If you are planning on vacationing this summer, you will need to take your car through its paces to avoid ending up on the roadside. Summertime is particularly demanding on a car. Heat plays a major role in the deterioration of parts that will stop your car in its tracks. So, before you set off on that 200-mile road trip, follow these simple tips to keep your car safe during the summer.
As a reminder, ensure that your vehicle is off and has been given time to cool off before you go poking around under the hood. There are many parts of your car that may not look hot until you touch them, so be careful and be sure that the car’s engine is cool.

Radiator/Cooling System

Overheating is one of the most common issues our shop sees during the summer and is the most common reason for summertime breakdowns. What may be a negligible problem during the colder months can wreak havoc during the summer.
Your car’s engine will have to work harder during the summer, which means more heat. If your cooling system is not up to the task, then the engine will quickly overheat.

Checks:

- Coolant levels
- Radiator cap (loose caps can cause evaporation). Don’t ever try to remove the cap if the car is hot
- Hoses and clamps
- Dash temperature indicator

If you have not taken your vehicle in for routine maintenance, then now is the time. Coolant, for example, should typically be changed annually.  There are additional checks that a mechanic will perform that most people will be too inexperienced to do themselves.

Battery

There are many reasons why a battery may bite the dust during the summer. If you have not changed your battery in a while and then decide to go on a road trip and find yourself stuck in traffic with the AC blasting, GPS and phones plugged in and charging, then the battery can quickly begin to fade.

Checks:

- Age – You should replace your battery every 3-4 years
- Charge – You can charge your battery before you begin a road trip.
- Headlights – Dimming lights
- Cranking – Slow cranking when turning on your car

There are many auto parts stores that will test your battery free of charge (sorry). Take advantage of this as a professional will know which signs to look out for in a defective battery like corrosion.

Air Conditioning

Many people will find out at the last minute that their AC isn’t working because they don’t turn it on until the temperatures outside really start climbing. Even if your AC is working, you should ensure that it's operating at full performance. If your AC is only marginally operating, then there is a chance that it will fail when put under stress as is common during summer.

Checks:

- Temperature - Place a thermometer into your AC vent to check how cold the air is.
- Cabin air filters – These are paper filters that filter the air coming into your cabin.
- Leaks – Look for refrigerant leaks under the car.
- Controls – Make sure that you can control the speed of the fan and temperature.

If you believe that you may have AC problems, but cannot pinpoint what exactly the issue is, then it is time to bring the car into the shop. There are a number of issues that can affect a car’s AC, from failed hoses and seals to moisture in the lines. A certified mechanic will be able to diagnose and repair such problems.
As with many of the issues presented, bringing your car in for routine maintenance will solve most of these headaches.

Brakes

Brakes actually go through more stress during the colder months. Driving is generally a lot slower and can be a lot harder on brakes. When the summer months start, make sure that there hasn’t been too much wearing and tear at this critical area of your car. Ensure that your breaks are in proper working condition before going on any vacations or road trips. This is one of the most important parts of a car and malfunctioning brakes are very dangerous.

Checks:

- Strange noises
- Longer-than-normal stopping distance
- Grinding
- Corrosion – check the pads for crumbling, cracks or discoloration
 If you notice anything out of the ordinary, then you should have your brakes inspected immediately. Many mechanical problems on cars start off fairly small, but can quickly get out of hand and cost more than the initial repairs.

Tires

Tires are another essential part of your car you need to be inspected regularly. You should bring your car in to have rotations done at least every 5,000 miles. You should also have your tires inspected to see if an alignment is necessary.

Tires will put a strain on other parts of your car. Low tire pressure will make it more difficult for the engine to move the car. Proper tire pressure will also have a positive impact on gas mileage.
If you notice your car’s tire pressure symbol pop up on the dash, then you should have the tires examined immediately. Low tire pressures, if left untreated for too long, can lead to blowouts and other expensive repairs.

Checks:

- Tire pressure – Follow your owner’s manual and check the pressure when its cold outside
- Tire replacement components – Do you have a jack, spare tire, etc?
- Tread – uneven or completely worn tread is a sign of trouble. Use the penny trick on your tread
- Cuts, nicks and nails
- Pulling – Does the car pull more to one side?

Oil

Oil lubricates the many parts of the engine and keeps components save damaging from each other. So it's important to choose the best oil for your car. This is particularly important during the summer months as it helps prevent overheating. Changing or topping off your oil is an inexpensive maintenance item that goes a long way. Whenever you change your oil, do not forget to change the oil filter along with it.

Check to make sure that you have enough oil in the car and that the color is golden brown. An off color or too much residue in the oil is a clear sign that you need to have an oil change. If you notice that there is not enough oil in the car, but the color is alright, then just add some oil.
Most modern vehicles will give you an indicator on your dash or screen when you require an oil change. If this is not the case, then simply consult with your manual and keep a note of at what mileage your next oil change should be. Always use the oil grade recommended by your car's manufacturer.

Checks:

- Dipstick – The oil should come up to the fill line and be a clean, golden-brown color
- Leaks – Oil leaks are very common. Many times, you will smell these before you see them.

General Maintenance Items

Here are some additional maintenance items you should be performing on a routine basis, but especially right before the start of the summer months.

Checks:

- Gas cap – Loosely fitting or missing gas caps result in gas evaporating from your vehicle
- Belts – Screeching or creaking noises from belts may be a result of cracking. Check for poor tension
- Wiper blades – don’t get stuck in a summer storm without adequate protection from the rain
- Wash and detail – after a stay at the beach, make sure you properly wash the top and undercarriage of the car to get rid of salt residue
- Jumper Cables
- Emergency kit – flares, water, food, basic tools, first-aid kit and a flashlight at the very minimum

Traveling during the summer is fun, but it’s important to be prepared. If you made it through summer in the past without any car problems, then consider yourself lucky. Give your car the due diligence it deserves and you will continue to enjoy it throughout the rest of your vacation. It is also recommended to see a car service centre like Chadstone Kia before you leave for a long and entertaining summer vacation

Author Bio

Adam Chmielewski is the owner at Malone’s Service and Performance, a European automotive repair shop located in Marietta, Georgia. He and his team have been servicing, repairing and upgrading vehicles in the metro Atlanta area for over a decade. Adam is passionate about the automotive industry and seeks to deliver outstanding services and education to everyone that steps into his garage.

5 Things You Should Do Immediately after an Accident

The fact is that nearly all motorists are involved in an accident at some point in their lives. We hope that these are minor rather than serious accidents, but regardless, you should be prepared for this to happen and have some idea of how to conduct yourself if this is the case. Particularly for young drivers, it’s well worthwhile having some idea of what is expected of you in the aftermath of an accident and how to go about it to ensure that everyone is safe and the process is smooth sailing. Let’s take a look at what you should be doing after an accident on the road.

Remain Calm

People can get very upset and angry about what the behavior of other motorists on the road, but even if the other driver is at fault, it’s important to stay calm and collected. Losing your temper will usually only lead to a negative outcome, as it’s likely to upset the other person and create more tension than is necessary.

Ascertain Who to Blame

This is one of the most important parts of the process. You need to establish with the other driver the circumstances that led to the accident and who exactly is at fault from a legal perspective. Sometimes there will be some disagreement about that this, in which case the police and those who may have witnessed the accident may need to lend a hand.

In most cases, it is pretty clear who is at fault. Information should obviously be exchanged and it’s important to make sure the other driver is who they say they are.

Call the Police

For smaller accidents such as light bumps in the car park, for instance, this may not be necessary, but getting in touch with the police is an absolute must if there are is any significant damage to either car and/or passenger. Also, if traffic is being held up as a result of the accident and you’re unable to clear the road for whatever reason

If you’re unsure about whether it is safe to drive your car away from the scene, the police officers can advise you and help you organise for a tow-truck to come and collect it on your behalf. They should also take a statement from both drivers and create a police report. Lastly, make sure you get the officers’ names and details so you can get in touch with them if need be.

Take Photos

Having as much information as possible about the accident is ideal; you never know what could possibly happen down the track with regards to insurance, etc. So take a few snaps of the damage to your car, even if it’s just a bump or a few scratches. Even if the accident was your fault, it’s worthwhile having photo graphical evidence of the state of your vehicle for later on. More to the point, take photos of the other person’s car too! Your insurance might wind up having to pay for damage that simply wasn’t there.

Seek Medical Treatment if Needed

Your own safety is the most important, so if you believe you’ve been injured in any way, it’s worthwhile booking an appointment with your doctor relatively quickly. If you are found to be seriously injured and require medical assistance, whether it be a general practitioner, specialist or even a chiropractor, make sure you keep a detailed account of the treatment you have search out and the bills for said treatment. Any absent work days and other activities that you have missed as a result of this should be noted as well. This may be payable by the other driver’s insurance in some cases. If the accident is serious and you have sustained injuries, it may be in your best interests to speak to a lawyer to help you deal with the process that follows.


Having an accident can be a stressful experience and can produce a shock in many cases, but if you have some idea of what needs to be done on your part and you’re able to do that, the process can run as smoothly as possible. At Chadstone KIA, we are always looking to give sound advice to motorists to ensure safety on our roads. Keep an eye on this blog for more tips going forward.

How to Fix Oil Seal Leaks On Your Car?

Many of you will come across a situation where you’ll witness oil drips on the road and wonder why is my car leaking oil? This leakage causes clutter wherever you drive your car and you will eventually end up in spending a lot of money to purchase additional oil.
To avoid such situations, it is very essential to take care of any such possible minor leakages promptly. Fixing these problems on your own will not only save money but also boost up your confidence to solve such minor car problems independently in future.
Common causes of external oil drips might be oil plug leakage caused by a damaged gasket, failure of front main seal or worn out valve cover gasket. Following are simple steps explaining how to fix oil seal leaks on your car.

Tools needed:  

• Screwdrivers - To gently remove the main seal from the seal housing

Source: Pixabay.com

• Ratchet Socket Set - For removing the Harmonic Balancer bolts or fastening them

Source: Pixabay.com

• Car Jack- This will be useful to lift up the car for replacing the front main seal. Using a heavy-duty Car Jack will be necessitous for large vehicles like Kia Sorento. This is quite powerful enough tool for jacking. 
• Jack Stands - To withstand the heavy weight of the car with high stability and strength while jacking. The Powerzone 3 Ton Steel Jack Stand - 1 Pair might be a good option for jack stands. 
• Bolt Puller Set - To efficiently remove the Harmonic Balancer from the crankshaft end

Source: Harborfreight

• Sealer - To quickly fix any minor holes or damages of the rubber seals or gaskets
• Gloves - To protect your hands from engine dust and oil

Source: Pixabay.com

• Eyewear Protection - For protection against any injury while working on front main seal replacement
• Liquid Transfer Pump - To remove excess oil from the oil reservoir, if any

Step 1: Detecting Oil Leakage

Park your car on an even level of surface and position it smartly on a paper, so that the engine is placed right above the paper. Use light colored paper so that you might recognize the color of the leaking oil easily and make sure the paper is wide enough to cover the width of your car.

After a day, move your car from the paper and analyze the paper keenly. If you see brown or dark colored oil dripped on the paper right beneath the engine, it is certainly oil leakage.

Step 2: Recognizing Cause of Leakage

Remove the hood of your car (Kia Sorento), check the oil level using the dipstick. If the oil level is low, fill additional oil to a desirable level. Whereas, if the oil level is above desired “Full” level, remove some oil using Liquid Transfer Pump.
Next, remove the oil fill cap. See if it is damaged, has become loose or if its seal is broken. In this case, the oil fill cap needs to be replaced.

Source: teon.co

Check the oil drain plug, if the oil seems to leak from this threaded oil drain plug then tighten the metal washer with the help of Ratchet socket set.

Source 2Carpros

Step 3: Fixing minor issues

• Slightly damaged Rubber seals or gaskets:If the oil leakage is minor, pour sealers in the oil reservoir. Follow the instructions carefully given on the Sealer. Whenever the engine runs, the sealer along with the oil will be evenly distributed throughout the engine. This will cause the sealer to stop any sort of leaks caused by slightly worn out rubber seals or gaskets. It will efficiently heal orrenew them and this gives effective results in stopping leakage. Your car might stop leaking after about 5 hours of pouring the Sealer formula in the oil reservoir. Watch the following video to know more about how to fix the oil seal instantly using Sealer. 

• Oil Filter leakage: Oil filter might cause leakage if it is loosely placed. Tighten the Oil filter, clean all the mess of previous oil leak and check again for any signs of leakage. 

Source: SuperCar Engineering

• Valve Cover Gaskets:  Valve cover is deliberately incorporated to shield the valve train and prevent the oil from leaking. A gasket is placedbetween the cylinder head and this valve cover. As time goes by, the gaskets usually wear away and might cause oil leaks. You can replace this valve cover gasket easily. Follow the simple steps given in the following video for replacing the valve cover gasket with a new unit.

Step 4: Fixing Major Issues

If the oil continues to leak then this might indicate that the ‘Main seal’ is severely damaged (generally due to the wearing caused by high temperature and engine vibration).
Front Crankshaft Main Seal Replacement:
With the help of car jack and jack stands, lift up the vehicle high enough for easy operation. Wear eyeglasses and gloves for protection against any injury.

• Remove the negative cable point of the battery to detach it completely. This will stop the supply of electrical power, for your safety.
• Take out the serpentine belt to easily access the front dampener bolt. Use 22mm or more size of socket to unfasten the dampener bolt counterclockwise (you can use air impact gun for easy unfastening)
• Take out the Harmonic Balancer with the help of Bolt puller Set and Ratchet Socket. Watch the following video for properly using the Bolt puller set

• The front main seal will now be visible to you onthe forward-facing side of the crankshaft. 
• Using a seal puller or a Standard Screwdriver, remove the main seal from the housing; make sure not to damage any part of the housing with the tools you are using. Watch this video to know how to remove the main seal easily 

• Wipe out all the surface where the new seal is going to be mounted by using a cleaning towel 
• Clean the crankshaft area as well 
• Make sure the old seal and new seal have similar dimensions to avoid inconvenience
• Take a tiny amount of silicone sealer and evenly spread it all over the outer rim of the seal to protect any external leaks around the seal housing
• Carefully  mount the new seal unit back into the seal housing, make sure the lip of the seal is facing inwards
• Using a hammer and socket unit, place the seal securely into its place and tap it lightly
• Clean the surface of the Harmonic Balancer thoroughlyusing a soft cloth, where the new seal will be rubbing against, to avoid any further leaks
• Spread slight amount of grease to this cleaned surface so that the new seal will be lubricated whenever the engine starts. Otherwise, no lubrication will cause the new seal to wear out instantly
• Using a dampener installation tool put back the balancer into its original place. Make sure the key slot on the balancer is in proper alignment with the woodruff key

Watch the video to know how to use the Dampener installation tool efficiently

• After completely installing the Harmonic balancer, thread the balancer bolts into the crankshaft end terminal and use socket wrench to fasten these bolts. 
• Put back the serpentine belt into its place securely
• Change the oil if necessary to avoid any further complications
• Start the engine and check for any abnormalities
• If no possible problems occur, you are good to go and the front main seal is successfully replaced

End of the line: 

If there are any minor leaking problems, above given first three simple steps might help you to fix such car leaking oil issues.
For the front main seal failure, all the steps mentioned in Step 4 will certainly help you to replace the main seal properly. Watch the YouTube videos for better understanding and proper execution of the steps.
Hope the instructions were clear enough and easy for you to understand. You can ask any questions below in the comments section for further queries or share your experiences of fixing oil leakages to help other readers. Also, if you liked this article then don’t forget to share it with others to benefit them as well!

Alice is the founder behind the automotivebros.  She is described as the car repair helper, money sever and advice giver when it comes to automobile industry. Automotivebros  gives best automotive products and repair posts that are straightforward and share her expertise in a manner that is easy-to-understand. Readers definitely are in for a unique and fun reading experience when the visit automotivebros.

The Next Generation Kia Rio 2017

One of Australia’s favourites, the KIA Rio has been one of the best-performing small cars on the market for many years. And by all accounts, 2017’s Rio has improved on the existing model and looks to take over the small car market this year. With a fresh look and a bunch of modern features that make it more energy efficient and a more convenient driving experience, the Rio is certainly primed to turn a lot of heads.

New design

This model has been redesigned from the 2012 Rio, which was the basis for all models design-wise until now. While previous models went for the cute, sweet small car look, this year’s release follows the sleek, almost futurist aesthetic style and tiger-nosed grill that has become a staple of Kia’s next-generation cars, as the brand has reinvented itself in terms of its design. This gives the car a tougher, more mature look that will likely appeal to a larger market as well as make it stand out amongst other small cars in its class.

Source: www.chadstonekia.com.au

Great value

One of the main reasons Kia has become one of the world’s premier car brands is the value these cars offer. The highly affordable 2017 Rio (starts at $16,990) is jam-packed full of features and for small car packs quite a punch when you consider its energy efficiency and lightweight nature. The four-cylinder 1.6 litres, a 74kW engine doesn’t make this a powerful car by any means, but it’s noticeably zippy and ideal for inner-city driving and holds it owns off the line,  offering acceleration. Add that to the fact that you’re looking at a very efficient and economical 5.6L/100km for the manual and it’s a reasonable trade-off.

Source: www.kia.com

In addition, the Rio has been highly praised for its handling and the fact that it provides one of the most comfortable driving experiences of any small car in its class. Excellent suspension and power steering ensure this is a smooth ride whether you’re darting through city traffic or on the freeway.

If you are looking for a little more behind the wheel, you’ll be pleased to hear that Kia is planning to release a turbocharged 1.0-litre edition later this year. Certainly, something to look out for!

Luxury interior

Another selling point is the interior, which feels much more spacious than it should when you consider the size of the Rio. Indeed, the smooth driving experience is contributed to by the fact that this interior is all about comfort, with an infotainment package that rivals those of significantly more expensive cars. 

Source: www.kia.com

The 7-inch touchscreen is able to connect to your phone to provide a number of handy features to passengers, being able to be synched up to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The dark interior features various USB ports, phone holders and bottle holders to boot.

If you’re looking for an affordable small car, the 2017 Rio is well worth looking into, so head down to your local KIA dealership in Melbourne to discuss your needs and find out more!

Valuable Things You Need To Keep in Mind When Buying A Used Car

When you’re buying a car, whether used or new, it’s important to do your homework and be prepared. There are a number of considerations you need to make before getting out there and prospecting for your vehicle. Ideally, you’ll want to have some idea of what you want, your price range and a general time frame of when you’d like to officially take ownership. It can be an exciting and often frustrating process, but it’s usually all worth it in the end! Let’s take a look at the checklist of things you need to think about before buying a used car.

Decide on A Budget

Your budget is a very important part of the equation. If you have an idea of what you’re willing to spend, you’re one step closer to finding the used car you want. There are obviously various that you need to consider here including your current income, how long you intend to own the car, how often you’ll use it and the potential for resale. Obviously, no one knows your financial situation better than you so it’s really a decision you have to make alone. What are the available car finance deals or solutions? Will you need to take out a loan to afford it? Can you afford monthly repayments? How long will it take you to pay off the loan? What about insurance? These are questions you need to be asking yourself.

Get A Good Sense of The Market

Arguably the most important aspect of buying a used car for the budget conscious shopper is having a general understanding of how far your dollar goes in the market. The way to do this is quite simply to shop around. Check multiple websites and even car dealers to get an idea of what kind of car you can afford with your budget. This obviously includes the type of car - whether that be sedan, SUV, hatchback, truck, etc. - the year, model, mileage and condition. If you have a general idea of what your money gets you, you’ll be in a much better position to bargain with sellers and get a better deal.

Establish What Car You’re Looking For

When it comes to buying a used car, indecision is never your friend. Do your research, figure out what you’re after according to your price range, tastes and reviews online, which can be a very helpful resource.

That said, the used car market can be a cruel mistress; often the model and make that you’re after won’t be easy to find, may be out of your budget or you might just not find a good deal on it.

That’s why often times it’s a good idea to be open to a few different options, rather than having your heart set on just one. You might, for example, be open to checking out Toyota, Mitsubishi or Kia used cars of a certain make, and if you find one for a good price, you can bargain and buy with confidence that you’re getting what you want.

Test Driving and Checking Vehicle History is Crucial

It goes without saying that you need to test drive the car, if possible in various conditions before making the purchase. Don’t be afraid to request to the seller if you can take the car around the block on numerous days before making your decision, and remember to test it at different speeds and road conditions and under several criteria if you can. Before making the purchase. You should also check the vehicle history and maintenance records, which the seller should be able to provide. If they are unable to provide this, be very aware!  Lastly, searching online can provide you with other details on the vehicle that the seller - in rare cases - may be trying to keep hidden, including major accidents.

Keep these things in mind when shopping for a used car and you’ll be well on your way to making a great purchase that is right for you. Remember that there are a number of additional considerations you need to make when going through the process, always be careful and practice common sense! We’d highly recommend having a third party professional check over any used car you’re looking to purchase, for example. Good luck out there!