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A mind-boggling amount of cargo and passenger space, incredible safety features, and a striking new look are just some features that make the brand new 2022 Kia Carnival an attractive vehicle option for anyone. Let’s take a closer look.

Basics About the 2022 Kia Carnival

This Multi-Purpose Vehicle launched in the summer of 2021 and replaces Kia’s Sedona minivan line. It combines the striking look of an SUV with all the comfort and entertainment of a family adventure vehicle.

The Carnival is available in four trim levels, the LX, EX, SX, and SX Prestige.

Engine

All Carnivals are fitted with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine capable of outputting 290 horsepower. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

Space

Carnivals are fitted with a slide-flex seating system and an impressive, best-in-class 168.2 cubic feet of passenger and cargo space. The Carnival also has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which makes it ideal for those camping and family adventure trips.

Infotainment System

An 8” infotainment system comes as standard with all trims, with an option to upgrade to a 12.3” touchscreen with a voice-command navigation system. The larger screen is standard on the higher trim levels. A rear-seat infotainment system is also available.

Pricing

LX

Pricing for the Carnival begins at $32,100 for the LX standard trim. This includes 7 passenger seats, the standard 8” infotainment system, a 4.2” Trip Computer Display, 6 USB Charging outlets, two in each seating row, cloth seat upholstery, and a host of safety features to put driver’s minds at ease.

LX Seat Package

Starting at $34,100, this trim offers all of the features of the LX, plus an extra passenger seat to bump the total passenger capacity up to eight. SynTex seat trims are offered instead of cloth. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob add a nice touch of luxury to this trim.

EX

The EX includes the perks of the LX trim, but the standard 17” alloy wheels are replaced with larger 19” alloy wheels with a stylish machine finish. The 12” infotainment comes as standard at this trim level. Other bonuses include accent trims, Tri-Zone automatic climate controls, smart cruise control, highway driving assist, and more.

SX

$41,100 can buy you the SX trim, which comes with a rear-seat entertainment system for those longer trips, 2 rear-seat entertainment monitors, and a surround-view monitor giving you a birds-eye view of your vehicle as you maneuver tight spaces.

SX Prestige

Pricing for the luxury trim level of the Carnival begins at $46,100. This will buy you dual power tilting and sliding sunroofs, an upgraded 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, LED interior and Map lighting, and VIP lounge seats on the second row; these come with wing-out headrest and leg extensions. The upholstery throughout is replaced with a luxurious embossed and perforated leather.

The Kia Carnival is a family-friendly MVP with a striking SUV design, yet encompassing all the comfort and luxury to withstand a long road trip. The vast amount of safety and driver-assist features, and the whopping amount of cargo space make it a perfect choice for adventurers. If you are ready to sit behind the wheel of a Kia Carnival, visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith today!

Fort Smith, AR is a vibrant mid-sized city on the Arkansas River in the northwestern portion of the state. The historic city is steeped with important tales and battles of yesteryear, and there are many museums and cultural centers in the area where you can learn all about it. There’s plenty of scenery to enjoy including a journey to the Ozark Mountains by train. The outdoor spaces are abundant and there are many great parks to enjoy in the area.

5 Favorite Parks in and Around Fort Smith, AR

1. Ben Geren Regional Park

This park has everything you need for a day of fun with the entire family. There are running paths, baseball and soccer fields, and two disc golf courses. It’s a massive place that even includes go-karting and mini-putt. If you feel like swinging the tennis racquet, there are courts available for that too. Be sure to bring your bike as there is a bike trail nearby as well. If all that isn’t enough, take a few cuts at the batting cage.

2. Creekmore Park

Creekmore is a nice respite to escape the chaos of the city and relax underneath a shady tree and crack open a book. There are gorgeous, mature trees throughout that provide a cool canopy to beat the heat on those hot Arkansas afternoons. The park is great for kids as it has a train ride that circles the park to showcase the scenery. There’s also a great playground and jungle gym for them to burn off their extra energy.

3. Fort Smith National Historic Site

This is an excellent riverside site to spend the afternoon at and learn a little bit about the area’s history. The exhibits are nicely put together and are full of interesting facts. There are great Park Rangers in the area that are more than happy to bestow their historical knowledge upon you. After your tour, there’s even a gift shop to stop at and pick up a souvenir to take home with you.

4. Chaffee Crossing Dog Park

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention a great local spot to take your four-legged friends. It’s a beautiful park with vast open spaces for the dogs to run to their hearts out. Quaint ponds are dotted throughout the area and there are sitting areas for the humans to enjoy. There are plenty of pathways and wooded areas to explore and you can really get lost here as it’s a huge space.

5. Van Buren Municipal Park

This lovely city park is located just off of 11th and Maple Street and is an awesome place to go for an escape while not having to stray too far from the city. There’s so much to do here including a fabulous running track around the lake. There are plenty of geese in the area, so bring a bag of breadcrumbs and feel free to feed them lunch. There are also playgrounds for the kids to monkey around on.
After a great day in the outdoors, come on down to Crain Kia of Fort Smith and test drive one of our great new or pre-owned vehicles.

Your Kia’s transmission is one of the most vital vehicle components. Transmissions are intricate and made up of moving parts to transfer power from the engine to the driveshaft to turn the wheels. When you notice that your transmission is not working correctly, act fast as a minor issue can turn into an expensive repair. Your Kia dealer will perform an expert transmission service performed by factory-trained technicians who will ensure your vehicle is in excellent running condition.

Does Your Kia Need Transmission Service at Your Kia Dealer?

The Warning Light Is On

The engine warning light is not only to warn you that there is an engine problem. The light will also be illuminated when your vehicle’s transmission is faulty. Always heed the warning lights on your dashboard and ask your technicians for a thorough inspection.

The Transmission Fluid Is Low or Discolored

When the transmission fluid is low, there might be a leak. Check under your car, and if you see a red stain, it’s a transmission fluid leak. If the fluid is not red but rather a reddish-brown color, it’s old and contaminated. This means the fluid can’t properly lubricate the components to ensure that they run smoothly.

Automatic and Manual Transmission Gear Issues

If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, the gears will slip while you are driving. If you have a manual transmission, it will be difficult to change gears and not stay in gear. This could be caused by low or contaminated transmission fluid. The parts are not lubricated well and causing shifting problems. There could also be a problem with the shifter, the cable, or the valve body.

The Engine Revs High

When you notice the engine revs high, low or contaminated transmission fluid could be the cause. The transmission parts might also be worn or faulty.  

Your Car Is Jerking and Shaking

When you shift gears and your car is not moving forward smoothly but jerking or shaking, it’s caused by the transmission.

Loss of Power

When you accelerate, your vehicle is slow to respond. The engine can be in good running condition and rev well, but you will feel a definite loss of power. This is an indication that you have a problem with your transmission.

Whining, Humming, Clunking, or Grinding Noises

If your vehicle’s transmission is faulty, it will make a noise. An automatic transmission will make a whining or humming sound. If you drive a manual transmission, you will hear a clunking or grinding noise when you shift gears. These noises are caused by a range of transmission issues and shouldn’t be ignored.

You Smell a Burning Odor

Whenever you smell burning, it’s caused by overheating. If it’s the transmission, it could be caused by old and contaminated transmission fluid that can’t lubricate the parts as it should, causing friction that leads to overheating. It could also be a transmission fluid leak or sludge inside the gearbox.

If you experience any of these transmission problems, allow one of our experienced and qualified Kia technicians to take care of your transmission problems before further damage occurs. Contact Crain Kia Kia Fort Smith today and schedule an appointment to ensure that your vehicle performs at its best.

Are you looking for a new sedan? Or perhaps you’re more interested in a hatchback? Either way, the 2021 Kia Rio can offer you a fun, stylish car up for anything. Here’s what you should know before you head to your dealership.

See Why Drivers Love the 2021 Kia Rio

The Rio’s Basics

Whether you prefer a sedan or a hatchback, the Rio is a fantastic car. There are many features included with this vehicle that make it an absolute delight to drive. If you’ve been looking for a super versatile, good-looking, and fun-to-drive car then the Kia Rio is the best option.

The new year has provided this car with a couple of tweaks that make it even better than previous iterations. The car receives a few touch-ups to its exterior, providing it with a sleeker, more athletic aesthetic that’s designed to make you stand out.

Pricing and Trim Levels

There are three different models available for the 2021 Rio. One of the best parts of this vehicle is that all three are super affordable, whether you’re going with just the basics or opting to splurge with the highest trim level. The LX sedan will provide you with all of the Rio’s essentials, costing about $17,045. The S sedan will provide you with even more features for about $17,645.

If you prefer a hatchback over a sedan, then the S hatchback is the perfect option for you. You can expect to spend about $17,985 on this model.

Engine and Performance

All three 2021 Rio models are powered by the same engine. When you drive this vehicle, you’ll be in control of a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that makes 120 horsepower. This engine is matched with a continuously variable transmission, and you’ll love the super-responsive feeling of this setup. The suspension soaks up all bumps and holes, and you’ll appreciate how agile the car feels.

You’ll also get great fuel economy with both the sedan and the hatchback. While you’re driving in the city, you’ll get 33 miles per gallon. If you’re driving out on the highway, then you can expect to get 41 miles per gallon.

Comfort and Cargo

You will love being inside the 2021 Rio. The interior design is easy on the eyes, and you’ll appreciate the super simple layout. But don’t worry—it’s anything but boring. The straightforward and sophisticated layout keeps everything within easy reach and offers you great features like climate control and a 6-speaker audio system.

If you’re planning on going on a road trip anytime soon, then the 2021 Rio offers plenty of space for all your luggage. Both the sedan and hatchback models are roomy, spacious, and offer lots of comfort for you and your passengers.

The 2021 Rio is a fantastic car. Whether you decide to go with the sedan or hatchback version, you’ll get a super functional, reliable, and durable car complete with fun styling. Are you ready to test drive the new Rio? Come see us today at Crain Kia Fort Smith.

Located on the Arkansas-Oklahoma state border, Fort Smith, AR is a perfect city for music lovers. We’ve got many unique music venues that offer something for everyone to enjoy. Check out some of our favorites!

6 Popular Live Music Venues in and Around Fort Smith, AR

Uncork’d

This place has a bit of everything, especially for wine and beer lovers. They offer forty craft beers on tap and over thirty wines that can be dispensed from their wall of wine machines. On their stage, they host live entertainment and music, which you can enjoy in comfort from their cozy seating. Remember that alcohol is only intended for adults of legal drinking age. Please always drink responsibly, and never drink and drive.

Temple Live

Temple Live is set in a unique building that was formerly a Masonic temple. Now, the auditorium makes for an awesome concert venue. Its capacity is just over 1000, making it the perfect size for a small crowd. The new video system means that the shows they put on are a sight to behold. The acoustics are also renowned, so it’s the perfect spot for any concert lover’s next night out.

R. Landry’s New Orleans Cafe

If you’re looking for a place to wind down after a long week, this is the spot. They serve a delicious menu of seafood, steak, and Cajun cuisine. On Friday and Saturday nights, they feature live music with new performers from a wide range of genres every weekend. Don’t forget to make reservations ahead, especially on music nights, to make sure that you don’t miss out!

Old Town Grain and Feed

As you might guess from the name, this building used to be a grain and feed store before it became a bar in 1973. They have live music on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, usually playing a mix of bluegrass, country, and rock. When they don’t have a live band, they’ve got karaoke, so there’s always music in the air!

JJ’s Grill

This location combines food and music for great results. The menu is packed with delicious grill food made from scratch. They offer happy hour specials from Mondays to Saturdays, meaning you’ll always be able to get drinks at a good price. Almost every night, they offer free live music, so it’s a great spot to experience local talent and tunes. It’s also a popular restaurant with families, who love to visit for dinner and music!

906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge

This social lounge is a classy place to enjoy your evening in comfort. From Monday to Saturday, they have live ambient music in the evenings to set the perfect atmosphere. Friday and Saturday nights feature shows by local jazz ensembles, who play until midnight so there’s lots of time to enjoy the music. They offer top-shelf liquors, hand-rolled cigars, and chef-inspired food to let you spend the night in style.

You’ll enjoy your night out at any of these locations, so why not stop by one tonight? First, make sure to visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith, where our welcoming staff will help you find the right vehicle for you!

The best place to take your Kia when you need service or repairs is your local Kia service center in Fort Smith, AR. We can diagnose any issue and fix your car in a timely and professional manner. Whether you simply need a check-up and spare parts or your car is showing signs of a problem, a visit to our center can keep your Kia in tip-top shape.

4 Great Reasons to Visit Your Fort Smith, AR Kia Service Center

1. Your Car Hasn’t Been Serviced in Over a Year 

If you haven’t been to see us in over a year, it’s likely that your appointment is overdue. Most Kia owners need to have maintenance service on their car once a year, but the exact frequency will depend on your model, how often you use your vehicle, and what conditions you usually drive in. If in doubt, check your manual to find out how often you should come to the center. 
Your annual service is very important for several reasons, the most important being that it can prevent small issues with your car from turning into big and expensive problems. In addition, having a record of your appointments with us can help retain the value of your vehicle, so you may be able to sell it on for a good price in the future. A well-maintained car is much more valuable than one without a maintenance record.

2. You Need Genuine Spare Parts

Many of our customers bring their car to us when it needs a replacement part, but some like to buy certain parts from us and install them on their own. No matter which category you fall in, buying from us is always a good idea because we will provide you with genuine, brand-name products. These can ensure that you don’t experience problems with your car and that your warranty remains intact. 

3. You’ve Noticed Recent Changes in Your Car’s Function

Strange smells or sounds are clear indicators of an issue with your vehicle. There are many different problems that could cause changes to your car, such as worn-down brake pads, loose parts, old oil, or a defective air filter. As soon as you notice that something feels ‘off’, stop by the center and show your vehicle to one of our expert mechanics. We will be able to diagnose the problem and suggest a way to fix it. 

4. Your Check Engine Light Is On 

Don’t ignore the warning lights on your dashboard, particularly the check engine light. This indicates that there’s something wrong with your engine, and you should get it fixed right away to avoid bigger issues down the road. Although it may feel like you’re saving money when you skip your service appointment, you’re likely to face more expensive repair bills down the road. 
When it’s time for a maintenance or repair on your Kia car, your local service center is the place to go. We offer competitive rates, professional technicians, and genuine spare parts. To book your appointment or find out more about what we do, contact Crain Kia of Fort Smith today.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a popular three-row midsize SUV with an affordable price tag. The stylish and potent vehicle can be yours from only around $35,000. That’s a lot of hybrid SUV for your money.

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

2021 Overview

The 2021 Sorento Hybrid has a longer wheelbase, which results in more cabin at the same affordable price. The hybrid power plants available with the 2021 Sorento make this affordable car even more affordable to own. A new design gives the SUV a fresh look on the inside and out.

Exterior Appearance

The 2021 body combines sharper lines than before with rounded corners, an updated front grille, and rear light clusters featuring vertical LED strips. Chrome badging and other chrome accents help present the Sorento Hybrid as a more upmarket SUV in the mid-level vehicle class.

Standard Hybrid

The standard hybrid power plant combines a four-cylinder 1.6-liter turbocharged gas-powered engine with a 44-kW electric motor to produce an impressive 227 horsepower. The standard configuration has a solid amount of power for a traditional hybrid while providing excellent fuel efficiency in a front-wheel-drive SUV.

Plug-In Hybrid

The plug-in hybrid power plant uses a gas-powered engine combined with a massive 66.9-kW electric motor to produce a sensational 261 horsepower. The plugin-in hybrid provides around 30 miles of pure electric range, which is excellent if you commute 15 miles to work or use your vehicle locally.

AWD

If you choose the plug-in hybrid power plant, you also get the advantage of an all-wheel-drive SUV. The system adjusts the amount of power to the front and rear wheels automatically for the most traction.

Fuel Economy

The hybrid power plant provides for excellent fuel economy. The standard hybrid will earn drivers 39 mpg around the town and 35 mpg on the highway. The plug-in hybrid delivers a combined 37 mpg for city and freeway and city use.

Paddle Transmission

Drivers will love the paddle transmission levers on either side of the steering wheel. The six-speed transmission that comes with the hybrid 2021 Sorento is quick to change gears by itself or when drivers pull on the paddle levers.

Interior Design

The cabin is an impressive-looking space when you first climb in. The interior uses a mix of materials and accents, including black gloss plastic, brushed aluminum-type trim, and soft-touch plastics and leather, to give an extra touch of luxury to this affordable midsize SUV.

Passenger Comfort

The 2021 Sorento Hybrid is larger than previous models in all directions. You will notice the ample space for six passengers immediately. Everyone has plenty of leg and headroom.

Infotainment

The standard infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen comes with all the connectivity you and your family need. An optional 10.3-inch touchscreen, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system are also available. Drivers will also be interested in upgrading to the 12.3 digital instrument panel to accompany the upgraded infotainment system.

Cargo Area

The dedicated cargo space has a capacity of around 13 cubic feet. You can increase the cargo space by folding down the third and second rows of seating to carry the bulkiest items.

The 2021 Hybrid Sorento also comes with a host of driver-assistance technologies and much more. Find out for yourself with Crain Kia of Fort Smith now.

Hiking is one of the best ways to get out of the house and enjoy the great outdoors, and if you’re in Fort Smith, AR then you’re in luck, as there are many beautiful hiking trails to choose from. Whether you’re climbing up into the Ozark Mountains or taking a stroll with your dog through a beautiful local park, there is sure to be the perfect trail for you.

4 Best Hiking Trails and Paths Near Fort Smith, AR

1. Ozark Highlands Trail

If you’re looking for a real adventure, then the 270-mile long Ozark Highlands trail could be for you. The trail winds its way through the stark, rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains, from its trailhead above Lake Fort Smith to its terminus north of Lake Norfolk. The Trail is one of the few in the area that remains open through the winter, as many others close due to heavy snowfall and cold conditions.

Even if you don’t feel like tackling the full trail just yet, there are many other loops and out-and-back segments to start with. The best of these near the city is a 17-mile out and back route that runs from the Lake trailhead to the top of Dockery’s Gap, a nearby pass through the mountains. The trail can be completed in around 9 hours.

2. Ben Geren Trail

If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, then the Ben Geren Trail, located to the south of downtown, is a great place to start. Beginning from the Zero Street Trail near Massard Creek, the trail follows the creek southeast in a semi-circular loop, before reaching its end in Ben Geren Regional Park. The trail is paved throughout most of its lake, making it a good option for cycling as well.

3. White Rock Rim Trail

If you’re hankering to explore the Ozarks, but don’t have much time to spare, then this gentle loop close to Winslow, AR is perfect. The trail loops in a gentle curve around the mountain from which it gets its name. The area is particularly known for its beautiful wildflowers and is a great place to bring your dog, but make sure you keep the leash on!

4. Butterfield Hiking Trail

Taking its name from the historic stagecoach route that ran through the area between 1858 and 1861, this looped backpacking trail runs through the nearby Devils Den State Park. There are many scenic views along the route, including from the Vista Point overlook and the tranquil Blackburn Creek. All backpackers must obtain a permit from the park office first, but luckily this is free of charge, so there’s no barrier to heading to the great outdoors.

These are just a few of the many wonderful trails that run nearby, there are many more out there to discover. The Ozark Mountains in particular are especially worth exploring. In the meantime though, visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith today to find out more before starting your next adventure.

There’s so much to do here in the Fort Smith area, but you won’t find a more engaging activity than learning about the past of our town at the Fort Smith Museum of History. Artifacts of all kinds that document the rich history that has occurred right here in our communities will bring the past to life right before your eyes. Here’s just some of what you can expect when you take a walk through Fort Smith’s past.

Discover the Past at the Fort Smith Museum of History

Experience Local History

Ever since it was established back in 1910, the Museum of History has worked towards its mission of preserving pieces of Fort Smith’s history. You’ll see that in everything from vintage automobiles that once cruised our streets to reconstructions of old courthouses where the law of our town was carried out. There’s also a war memorial exhibit that lets you learn about the brave men and women from our area who served in our nation’s armed forces.

Take a Walk Through Time

Stop in during the museum’s Walk Through Time event to see history brought to life for you to witness. A special walking tour will introduce you to some of the prominent figures of our area’s history, played by members of the museum’s staff and volunteers. This one-of-a-kind experience is the most immersive way to experience the history that’s occurred right here in Fort Smith.

Other Special Events

Plan your visit around the museum’s calendar of events to get the most out of your trip here. Other than the Walk Through Time experience, you can also stop in to catch one of the bike shows held here, or enjoy some brats and burgers at a cookout. Other events have included recreations of historic trials that happened right here in our town.

Enjoy the Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain

If you work up an appetite while you’re taking in all that the museum has to offer, stop in and enjoy a treat at the museum’s soda fountain. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped through time into the early 1900s with its old-fashioned pharmacy feel. The sweets you’ll enjoy here are worth the visit alone, like their ice cream sundaes and root beer floats that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Stop at the Gift Shop

Take a piece of the past home with you by stopping at the museum’s gift shop. Locally produced pottery and baskets make the perfect gift for either yourself or someone special to you. You can also find works of art created by artists from right here in the local area. Seeing the talent people right in our neighborhood have was definitely one of the most impressive aspects of our visit to the museum.

All of the local history on display at the museum remind you how deep the roots of our community go. We honor those deep roots by treating every customer at our dealership like the neighbors they are. Visit Crain Kia Fort Smith today to see our community pride!

Looking for a new SUV? The 2021 Kia Telluride is a phenomenal vehicle with a slew of great features. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to your dealership.

Your Guide to the 2021 Kia Telluride

The Basics

There’s so much to love about the 2021 Telluride that it’s hard to know where to even begin. When you purchase this vehicle, you’ll be getting a powerful car with great performance that’s great for families and lone drivers alike.

You’ll also be getting a smooth, sleek-looking vehicle complete with high-quality materials making up its inside. For a car with so many incredible elements, you may assume you’ll have to spend an arm and a leg to get it. But one of the car’s best features is its affordability.

The Pricing and Trim Options

If you’re thinking of buying the 2021 Telluride, then you’ll get the choice of four trim levels. The LX is the base model and provides you with the car’s essentials. You’ll be spending around $33,415 for this trim. One step up is the S which provides some additional features for about $35,815.

You’ve also got the EX as an option if the first two trim levels don’t offer enough satisfactory features for you. This will cost you about $38,815. Finally, you’ve got the SX which offers all the car’s top features and will run you around $43,715.

Engine and Performance

Expect fun and reliable performance from the 2021 Telluride. All four models are powered by the same responsive engine. This is a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that gets you 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque.

The car comes standard with front-wheel drive, but you do have the option of adding on all-wheel drive if that’s what you prefer. You can count on the Telluride’s 8-inch ground clearance for all your off-road exploring, as well as its 5,000-pound towing capacity if you’ve got something big to take with you.

Interior Comfort and Storage Capacity

The 2021 Telluride’s bold, confident exterior appearance is matched by its sophisticated and minimalist interior. With a simple design that never feels lacking or tacky as well as comfortable seating, you’ll love spending time in this car.

The vehicle also has plenty of space for anything you want to bring with you. Passengers will appreciate the amount of legroom, and the back rows can be folded down for larger items.

Technology and Safety Features

Whether you’ve got an Apple or Android phone, it’s easy to connect to the Telluride’s infotainment system using the integrated Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. You also have an available voice-command navigation system to help you make sure you always know where you’re going.

You can count on the Telluride’s safety features like Blind Spot Warning, Safe Exit Assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection to stay safe on the road.

If you’re looking for a luxurious SUV at a price you can actually afford, then the 2021 Telluride is the perfect car for you. With so many fantastic features, it’s not hard to see why drivers love this vehicle. Fall in love with it yourself when you visit us at Crain Kia Fort Smith!