The New Kia Soul: 5 Reasons Why Drivers Are Madly in Love

02/14/2024 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

Countless drivers today are checking out the Kia Soul. They know this manufacturer has an excellent reputation for reliability and value and want to see for themselves why so many drivers are buying these cars. The 2024 Kia Soul continues with this tradition. The following are five reasons drivers are madly in love with this car.

Ample Room

When a person hears the word subcompact, they may think of a small vehicle, one with limited room. Don’t let this designation fool you. The 2024 Kia Soul has over 62 cubic feet of space in the cargo area. The 60/40 split-folding seats ensure you can carry items large and small with ease. In addition, this vehicle carries five people easily, thanks to the 100 cubic feet of passenger space. However, ample room in the cabin is only one great thing about this year’s model, which is why you may want to start looking into kia finance specials.

You won’t mind sitting in the front seats for hours, as they have been designed with comfort in mind. While the rear seatback isn’t adjustable, most people find they aren’t bothered by it. This may be due to the ample headroom and legroom for both the driver and passengers. Four adults can take a ride in the car without feeling cramped, even if they are going long distances. They’ll enjoy the tall and narrow windows, as they can see the world around them. You won’t mind taking these long trips either, as you can adjust the seat and the steering wheel to fit your size.

Other features make for an enjoyable ride. These features include ambient lighting and dual-zone climate control. You also have the option of upgrading to heated adjustable seats, if that is something you would enjoy.

Performance

While the ride may be comfortable, you need power to move the car. The Soul takes you around town with ease. One drawback is the car doesn’t accelerate rapidly, thanks to the 2.0-liter engine. Nevertheless, the steering feels natural when you are moving from center, and the cornering abilities are great. The transmission is an automatic CVT, but you won’t be able to tell this, as it feels as if you are driving a traditional automatic.

However, the brake pedal can be touchy, particularly at low speeds. You may find it takes time to adjust to this. The Soul will brake quickly in an emergency, which is the important thing. All-wheel drive is not an option offered at this time.

A Stylish Ride

One reason many drivers take a second look at the Soul is this vehicle offers unique styling. It brings together what people love about an SUV and a conventional hatchback. Kia isn’t resting on its laurels either. Every year, the engineers try to find ways to improve on this car. In 2024, drivers can invest in a Kia Soul EX Designer package, which comes with features such as special interior options and 18-inch wheels.

For those who want a sporty look for their vehicle, the GT-Line is perfect. This trim level comes with 18-inch Sport alloy wheels, two-tone paint, and a steering wheel that is Sport-designed. However, if you prefer another trim level, you can still find a ride you love. All come with interior decorative features, such as a steering wheel encased in leather, a power sunroof, or privacy glass in the rear.

Technology

While the Kia Soul may come with a lower price tag than some of its competitors, the technology found in this car is sure to impress. Most models come with a 10.2-inch integrated touchscreen that takes up a large portion of the dashboard. The vehicle comes with in-dash navigation, the ability to subscribe to SiriusXM radio, and more.

Many people don’t expect to climb into a Kia Soul and find a Harman Kardon stereo, but that is exactly what they will see. It offers outstanding bass response and great sound quality regardless of what type of music you prefer. Every vehicle comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and you can opt for wireless charging along with charging ports.

The technology extends beyond the stereo system. You benefit from driver assist systems that don’t put out false alarms. Industry experts love the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, so be sure to check those out when taking this car for a test drive. Ask about additional features such as Remote and Push-Button Start as well as the Smart Key option. Other features to ask about include forward collision warning, automatic high-beam headlights, and automatic emergency braking.

Protection

Kia stands behind its products, as the warranty shows. You get bumper-to-bumper coverage for five years or 60,000 miles. The powertrain warranty extends for 10 years or 100,000 miles, and your car also comes with free roadside assistance for five years or 60,000 miles. When you buy this car, you know you won’t be facing high repair bills in the coming weeks, months, or even years. The manufacturer will handle repairs for those things that go beyond normal wear and tear.

JD Power ratings consistently remain above 80. The biggest complaint of customers is the dealership experience. They rank this experience in the low 70s regularly. This rating looks at factors such as customer service, work quality, and dealership facilities. For this reason, choose your dealer carefully to ensure a great experience all around.

According to CarEdge, you will spend approximately $6,896 on repairs and maintenance if you keep this vehicle for ten years. The site goes on to say the odds of needing a major repair, one that costs $500 or more, is slightly over 21 percent during the first ten years of car ownership. The risk of a major repair increases with each year you own the car. Factor this into the car buying process, and you will see the Kia Soul is an excellent deal, particularly in the first ten years you own it.

US News and World Reports places the 2024 Kia Soul at the top of the subcompact SUV category. While this vehicle isn’t perfect, it has a lot to recommend it. If you are in the market for a new SUV, this is one you want to check out.

Books, Life, Parenting

Embracing Uniqueness: A Puffin Bird’s Journey of Self-Discovery

02/02/2024 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

In a world where conformity often seems like the norm, teaching children the beauty of individuality and self-acceptance is a precious gift. Puffel, a charming tale has captured the hearts of both young readers and adults alike. Awarded the Readers’ Favorite 5-star badge in 2023, this delightful story penned by Sr. Gianna Casino takes readers on an enchanting journey alongside Puffel, an adorable puffin who encounters a group of penguins that leave him in awe.

From the very first page, readers are immersed in Puffel’s world (an enchanting coast in Norway). He has a fun personality and likes to play. As he navigates through the ups and downs of his journey, Puffel learns a profound lesson – that what makes someone truly special is not their ability to blend in, but rather their capacity to shine brightly in their own unique way.

What sets “Puffel” apart is not only its heartwarming narrative but also its visually stunning illustrations by Nadia Izotova, that capture the essence of Puffel’s journey with unparalleled grace. With each turn of the page, readers are transported into a world of vibrant colors and whimsical characters. See the Book Trailer for a sneak peek.

From Sr. Gianna Casino’s perspective as an author, nun, teacher, and clinical counselor, she encourages readers young and old, to walk on a path of grace, compassion, and belonging. “Our children will grow up in a world where societal pressures often dictate standards of success and beauty. Like Puffel, I want our children to know that they are perfectly lovable, just as they are.”

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, “Puffel” reminds us that true beauty lies not in conformity, but in the courage to embrace our authentic selves – quirks and all. Your purchase comes with free resources and coloring activities! Great for ages 3-7+.

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Life, Parenting, Tips

Important Things To Consider Before Doing A Paternity Test

02/01/2024 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

Paternity testing, a procedure that determines the biological father of a child, carries significant emotional and legal implications. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration and understanding of various aspects. The process involves more than just the technicalities of DNA sampling; it impacts family dynamics, emotional well-being, and legal rights.

Understanding the Process and Its Accuracy

The first step in considering a paternity test is understanding how it works. Paternity tests analyze DNA samples from the child, the alleged father, and sometimes the mother. The reliability of these tests is extremely high, often exceeding 99% accuracy. However, selecting a reputable laboratory is crucial, as the testing quality can vary.

The accuracy of a paternity test also hinges on proper sample collection. Non-invasive methods, such as cheek swabs, are commonly used and can be done at home for personal tests. For legal tests, samples must be collected under supervised conditions.

Legal and Financial Implications

Paternity tests carry considerable legal and financial consequences. Establishing paternity can affect child support, custody, and inheritance rights. In some cases, it can also have implications for immigration and citizenship. Before undergoing a paternity test, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand the potential outcomes and legal responsibilities that may arise.

The cost of paternity tests can vary significantly based on the type of test and the testing facility. While home testing kits might be more affordable, legal paternity tests, which require a chain of custody and professional administration, tend to be more expensive.

Emotional Considerations and Family Dynamics

Beyond the scientific and legal aspects, the emotional impact of a paternity test is profound. Discovering the truth about a child’s paternity can alter family relationships and individual identities. It’s crucial to prepare for possible emotional responses, regardless of the outcome. This might involve seeking support from a therapist or counselor, especially if the results could lead to challenging family conversations or decisions.

The decision to undergo a paternity test should be approached with sensitivity towards all involved parties, including the child. The process and results can have long-lasting effects on a child’s sense of family and self. It’s important to consider the best time to conduct the test and how to handle the findings with care and respect for the child’s emotional well-being.

Confidentiality and Privacy Concerns

Privacy is a major concern in paternity testing. Ensuring that the test results and the identities of the individuals involved remain confidential is paramount. When selecting a testing facility, verify their privacy policies and how they handle personal data.

Think about the broader implications of test results becoming known beyond the immediate family. This includes considering how to protect the child’s identity and privacy in potentially public situations like legal disputes or discussions with extended family and friends.

Impact on Health and Medical History

Paternity tests can also reveal important information about a child’s medical history and genetic predispositions. Understanding biological lineage can be critical for identifying inherited health conditions and planning for potential medical issues. If a paternity test alters the understanding of a child’s genetic background, it may be necessary to update medical records and inform healthcare providers.

A Brief Summary

Deciding to undergo a paternity test is a significant choice that extends beyond the simplicity of DNA testing. It involves careful consideration of legal, financial, emotional, privacy, and health-related factors. By thoroughly understanding these aspects and seeking appropriate advice and support, individuals can navigate the complexities of paternity testing with greater confidence and preparedness.