As a town with an eventful history and an abundance of picturesque natural scenery, Fort Smith, AR, is a great place for photography. If you’d like to enjoy a day snapping away with your camera, here are some of the best photo spots you’ll find around town.
4 Great Photo Spots in Fort Smith, AR
Fort Smith National Historic Site
This excellent museum is filled with interesting artifacts and exhibits to photograph. Fort Smith National Historic Site protects the remains of two significant military forts from the nation’s early days. Inside the museum, you can take pictures of all kinds of fascinating objects, including an old jail and gallows.
The grounds surrounding the museum are extensive and offer fantastic views of the Arkansas River. You’ll find more objects of interest to photograph of as you explore the trails, including a canon and an old-style pioneer wagon. Visit the museum at 301 Parker Avenue.
Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
If you’re a fan of nature photography, you’ll find stunning scenery and interesting natural phenomena at this well-kept 170-acre nature center. The central building itself and its surrounding hickory and oak trees has a great deal of visual appeal and is packed with interactive displays, plus a 1,200-gallon aquarium.
As you walk through the forest and come to the beautiful shores of Wells Lake, you’ll see many lovely views to photograph and plenty of wildlife as well. The short drive down to the nature center in the southeast of town is a very pleasant journey. You can roll down the power windows of your brand-new 2023 Kia Forte LXS and enjoy the breeze and views as you drive.
Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Use your camera to capture a piece of locomotive and streetcar history at this popular indoor and open-air museum at 100 South 4th Street. Here, you can take pictures of magnificent vintage locomotives and train cars.
You can even enjoy a trolley ride on a restored old-style trolley. As you ride, the cheerful, knowledgeable trolley operator will regale you with stories about the town and the railroad system that helped it grow.
Drennen Scott House
This beautifully preserved settler’s home was first built in 1836. Today, it offers a glimpse into how the nation’s brave pioneers once lived, with a fine collection of period relics and antiques on display.
All the richly furnished rooms inside offer great photo opportunities, as does the outdoor porch and pretty building exterior. The characterful costumed curator and guide is also happy to pose for the camera. Find Drennen Scott House at 324 North 3rd Street.
After you’ve taken plenty of terrific pictures at these fine local sites, visit Crain KIA of Fort Smith. Our full-service dealership provides top-notch vehicles, financing, and customer service.
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4 Kia Vehicles That Have Great Fuel Efficiency
Many modern Kia vehicles offer great fuel efficiency. At your local Kia dealer, you’ll find plenty of new and pre-owned models that make it easy for you to conserve fuel.
4 Vehicles at Your Local Kia Dealer With Great Fuel Efficiency
1. Kia Sorento Hybrid
The Sorento hybrid is an excellent option if you’re looking to maximize your fuel economy. It makes use of an electric motor and a gas-powered engine. Not only are you going to save money on fuel, but the Sorento hybrid also provides you with plenty of interior cargo space to transport various items.
The upgraded fuel economy of the Sorento hybrid is among the best in its class. You’re getting an estimated 35 MPG on the highway and 39 MPG in the city. Those numbers are seriously impressive, especially because the Sorento hybrid is a midsize SUV and not a sedan.
2. Kia Niro
The Kia Niro is another hybrid SUV that also allows you to minimize your visits to the gas pump. This electric model offers you best-in-class fuel economy and a projected driving range between 478 and 588 miles. You’re also getting an estimated range of 49 to 53 MPG, no matter where you’re driving!
If you’re an eco-conscious driver who also wants to save money at the pump, you can’t go wrong with the Kia Niro. It’s available in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, and the vehicle comes with many other features/amenities that you’ll enjoy. They include regenerative braking technology, driver-centric dual displays, and plenty of interior cargo space.
3. Kia Forte
The Forte is a compact sedan from Kia that also provides you with really good gas mileage. When you’re in the city, you get an estimated 30 MPG, and when you’re driving on the highway, that number increases to 41 MPG. The vehicle is an ideal choice for drivers who live in rural or densely populated areas.
People who’re shopping for new vehicles often choose the Forte for its sleek, modern, and stylish design. The available technology and driver-friendly features are also an added bonus to the upgraded fuel economy.
4. Kia K5
The Kia K5, which is the midsize luxury sedan formerly known as the Optima, also offers you optimal fuel economy. The vehicle gets you an estimated 29 MPG in the city and 38 MPG while driving on the highway. It’s an excellent option for drivers who want to save money on gas but also value performance.
Are you ready to search for a new or used Kia vehicle that offers you better fuel economy? Contact Crain Kia of Ft Smith today for information on every model in our inventory. One of our team members can help guide you through the process of finding a vehicle that suits your needs!
Whether you’re tired of your usual spots or just looking for a new activity in Fort Smith, AR, check out these hidden gems that won’t disappoint.
5 Hidden Gems You Can Drive to Near Fort Smith, AR
1. Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
Literally hidden in the woods, the Janet Huckabee building is tucked away at 8300 Wells Lake Road and boasts a wealth of things to do. Surrounded by oak and hickory trees, take a pit stop inside for flyers and a map of the 170-acre natural playground.
Inside, you’ll find exciting exhibits, including one about the Ouachita and Ozark mountains, a life-sized oak tree, and a huge aquarium that’s home to native Arkansas fish.
2. Fort Smith Brewing Company
For delicious craft beer that can satisfy the cravings of any beer connoisseur, visit the passionate crew at 7500 Fort Chaffee Blvd. The laid-back atmosphere is conducive to fun, with 19 mouth-watering brews on tap ranging from lager to IPA to ale. Alcohol is intended for adults of drinking age only. Please remember to drink responsibly and in moderation, and never drink and drive.
Many of their brilliant beverages are named after activists, politicians, and historic events that align with the company’s core values of inclusivity and compassion. The George McGill amber ale celebrates the current mayor, who is the first African-American to sit in the mayor’s position in town.
3. Chaffee Barbershop Museum
Hop in your 2023 Kia Forte and head over to the barbershop at 7313 Terry Street #803, which is best known for the time the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley himself, waltzed through the door for his iconic buzzcut.
His gorgeous locks graced their floor, forever changing the course of their business as well as his own life. Experience the 1950s beauty parlor that looks exactly like it did when Elvis visited to receive his cut, just like thousands of other Vietnam enlistees did as well.
4. Pinnacle Mountain State Park
The state park at 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road is no secret, but the jewel of this attraction lies at the top of the mountain. Hike to the top to behold the stunning sight of our city from the perspective of an eagle. Pinnacle is also a certified Trail of Tears historic site, commemorating the heartbreaking hardships that were forced upon the Cherokees, Choctaws, and other tribes that resided in the area.
5. The Trolley Museum
Train collectors and trolley enthusiasts will love the exhibit at 100 S 4th Street, where you will learn all about railroad transportation. The Streetcar Restoration Association proudly preserves artifacts like railroad equipment, electric-powered streetcars, and other tidbits surrounding the pivotal period in history.
When you’ve added a new interest to your list, stop by Crain Kia of Fort Smith to see what’s new.
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Are you in search of exciting weekend getaways near Fort Smith, AR? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of fantastic destinations that will make a perfect escape from busy city life. From breathtaking natural landscapes to charming small towns, these nearby gems are sure to rejuvenate your spirit.
5 Fantastic Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Fort Smith, AR
1. Devil’s Den State Park
Located less than an hour’s drive south of Fort Smith, Devil’s Den State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Explore the park’s picturesque hiking trails, tranquil streams, and ancient caves. Spend a night or two camping in one of their well-equipped campsites or rent a cozy cabin.
The park also offers swimming, fishing, and horseback riding opportunities. Moonshiner’s Cave is a neat place to start exploring the park. Find it at 10751 AR-74, Winslow.
2. Ozark National Forest
Escape into the pristine beauty of the Ozark National Forest, situated about 70 miles northeast of the city. Spanning over 1.2 million acres, this vast forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in hiking, camping, fishing, or bird watching.
Marvel at waterfalls like Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls or explore the beautiful scenic byways. Find Pig Trail Falls at 18311 State Hwy 23.
3. Eureka Springs
Step into a charming Victorian-era town just 100 miles northeast of Fort Smith. Eureka Springs is known for its historic architecture, eclectic shops, and vibrant art galleries.
Don’t miss the stunning Thorncrown Chapel or the mineral springs that you can bathe in. Explore the nearby Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, which is located at 239 Turpentine Creek Ln.
4. Mount Magazine State Park
Rising 2,753 feet above sea level, Mount Magazine offers incredible vistas and outdoor adventure opportunities. This state park is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and hang gliding.
Experience the park’s diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the captivating views from Cameron Bluff Overlook. Stay overnight in the luxurious Mount Magazine Lodge which overlooks the Petit Jean River Valley. Savor delicious cuisine at the Skycrest restaurant which is located at 577 Lodge Dr.
5. Lake Tenkiller
For a weekend filled with water-based activities, head to Lake Tenkiller, located approximately 48 miles west of the city. This crystal-clear lake boasts numerous swimming areas, boating opportunities, and excellent fishing spots. Explore the surrounding Cherokee State Park if hiking trails and wildlife observation strikes your fancy.
You can also rent a cabin or set up camp in one of the lakeside campgrounds. Strayhorn Marina Tenkiller offers paddleboard and kayak rentals and is located at 446567 E 965 Loop.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or quality time with the whole family, there’s something for everyone. So start planning a memorable adventure in beautiful surroundings. Before you go, stop by and see us at Crain Kia of Ft Smith to test drive the 2023 Kia Soul LX with forward collision warning features to ensure you arrive safely at your destinations.
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Cutting-edge innovations and tech features allow your Kia to deliver you a more convenient, connected experience out on the road. Want to learn more about the technology you’ll have at your fingertips when you’re driving one of the vehicles available at your local Kia dealer? Check out our list to learn about some of the latest and greatest features your Kia comes equipped with.
6 Amazing Tech Features You’ll Find on Today’s Kia Vehicles
1. Digital Key
Turn your compatible smartphone into a key you can use to unlock your vehicle and the journeys you have waiting for you with the Digital Key system. This feature lets you open up the vehicle without needing to dig around for your keys and even lets you share the digital key with other drivers using the vehicle with ease.
2. Kia Connect
Further increasing your smartphone’s synchronicity with your vehicle, the Kia Connect system puts control over your vehicle in the palm of your hand. You’ll be able to remotely start your vehicle, adjust the climate control settings, and access an array of vehicle information, all through an easy-to-navigate app.
3. Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
The same high-tech approach that gives you greater convenience in your Kia also works to keep you safe on the road. The blind-spot collision avoidance assist system uses sensors and cameras to detect hazards that may be out of your line of sight, giving warnings and using corrective steering to keep you safe from unseen dangers.
4. SiriusXM Satellite Radio
The first-class drive your Kia gives you deserves first-class entertainment to match, and that’s what the available SiriusXM Satellite Radio will give you. A whole range of music channels, talk shows, news programs, and a variety of other content will be at your fingertips on every drive you take.
5. Bose Premium Audio System
Whatever audiobooks, podcasts, or songs you enjoy on your drive will play with beautiful clarity through the Bose premium audio system available for your Kia. The peerless sound quality this system provides will keep you entertained as you’re cruising onward to your next destination.
6. Smart Cruise Control
Another class-leading safety feature included in the Kia Drive Wise system, smart cruise control makes navigating highway traffic a safe and stress-free endeavor. This feature keeps track of other vehicles you’re sharing the road with, adjusting your cruising speed so you never follow the driver ahead of you too closely.
The Kia experts at our dealership are standing by to tell you about these exciting features and everything else the vehicles in our inventory can do. Come to Crain Kia of Fort Smith today to find all the most modern vehicles on the market!
5 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
A defective ignition coil can significantly impair your car’s performance, causing several engine problems that, in some cases, can even pose a threat to driver safety. Understanding the common signs of a faulty ignition coil can help you identify the underlying issue with your vehicle before taking prompt action to address it with your Kia dealer. Here’s a closer look!
From Your Kia Dealer: 5 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
Misfiring Engine
When a coil fails, one or more of your car’s spark plugs misfire because the spark needed to ignite the gasoline and oxygen fuel mixture is either absent or weak. Affected engines run rough and often seem to sputter while driving at normal highway speeds.
The effect can be even more noticeable when you stop at a traffic light or stop sign, where the rough engine performance caused by a bad coil may cause the entire car to violently shudder, vibrate, or even stall. It’s cause for concern, so head for the dealership ASAP.
Difficult Engine Startup
An ignition coil that’s on the ropes may leave you feeling like you’ve gone twelve rounds in a heavyweight fight as you repeatedly crank the engine to begin your morning commute. The coil provides the electrical punch needed to start the engine and if it just can’t reliably generate the required voltage, you’ll have difficulty starting your car. If part of your morning routine is a hard-to-start engine, see your dealer for a cup of coffee and a coil check!
Reduced Gas Mileage
Gas mileage is one of the first things to decline when a coil begins to fail. The reason? A coil that delivers a weak or intermittent spark will result in incomplete combustion of fuel, causing gas mileage to tank. Even if the root cause of your car’s poor mileage isn’t a bad coil, lower gas mileage is a clear sign of an underlying issue with your car’s engine. A Kia-certified tech has the answers you’re looking for!
Diminished Power and Sudden Backfires
A rough-running engine and power loss can also occur due to a damaged ignition coil. Your engine may idle roughly or accelerate poorly; you may even notice unexpected and sudden backfires, something that should never happen in modern engines. If you hear the bang of a backfire when driving, it’s time to investigate the possibility of a wonky coil during a service appointment. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious engine damage!
Illuminated Check Engine Light
Even if you haven’t noticed any overt signs of a bad coil, a malfunctioning coil can still trigger your car’s check engine light, or CEL. The fact that the CEL is illuminated isn’t conclusive evidence, as many issues can trigger the CEL. But a Kia-certified tech can use an OBD-II diagnostic scanner to check for a P0351 or similar diagnostic code, making it possible to pin down the exact cylinder or cylinders impacted by a malfunctioning coil.
If you’ve reason to think your car’s performance issues may be due to a bad ignition coil, our factory-trained technicians can diagnose your problem and have you back on the road in no time using genuine Kia parts. Schedule a service appointment with Crain Kia of Fort Smith today!
7 Things to Love About the 2023 Kia Seltos
Exciting new features stand out on the all-new Kia Seltos. From its spacious interior to impressive technological advances, this compact SUV is full of innovation and comfort. Below we’ll explore seven things to love about the 2023 Seltos.
7 Things To Love About the 2023 Kia Seltos
1. Exterior Light Design
A newly revised exterior, including front and rear bumpers, brings a new bold look to the 2023 Seltos. Adding to the face, the new LED headlight and taillight designs stand out in a new way from previous models.
2. Turbocharged Engine
The 2023 Seltos dominates the roads with an aggressive turbocharged engine. It packs 195 horsepower and 195 pounds-feet of torque, meaning you have equal parts power and performance. Plus, a new eight-speed transmission adds to the Seltos smooth drive.
3. Spacious Leg Room
Passengers have plenty of space inside the Seltos, with substantial second-row legroom to stretch their legs on long drives. In addition, the best-in-class interior room and available heated and ventilated front seats provide ultimate comfort.
4. Panoramic Displays
An available 10.25-inch display screen provides a panoramic display of screens on the new dashboard layout. The panoramic display provides navigation and essential driver information to assist you on your drive.
5. Charging Ports and Stations
All passengers have multiple ways to stay connected to their devices, with USB ports in the front and rear of the interior cabin. Beside the USB-C charging ports, you’ll also find a 12V outlet. In addition, a wireless charging station is available for the driver and front passenger under the dash.
6. Digital Access
The Seltos continues its high-tech innovation with available digital access to your car. The Digital Key is a virtual key you can share with other drivers in your family that also allows you to start, lock, and unlock your car remotely. Additionally, with the Kia Access app, you can control the temperature or use the Find My Car feature at the touch of a button on your smartphone.
7. Kia Drive Wise
Safety technology comes standard on the 2023 Seltos with Kia Drive Wise. The safety technology has advanced features that assist the driver in staying alert and aware on the road.
Safety features like automatic emergency braking with cyclist detection and forward collision avoidance assist helps to prevent possible collisions by giving you audible or visual alerts. Additionally, navigation-based smart cruise control guides your car to control the distance between the vehicle in front of you.
The 2023 Seltos stands out in the compact SUV market with its host of impressive features. Whether you’re looking for a digitally and technologically advanced vehicle or just more legroom for long drives, the Seltos covers its bases. Drive down to Crain Kia of Fort Smith to check out the Seltos for yourself and take this SUV for a test drive today!
Get in touch with nature and discover the beautiful Arkansas scenery around Fort Smith, AR. Head down the road in a Kia Sportage or Sorento with plenty of ground clearance and space for your outdoor gear and go on exciting adventures hiking, biking, and angling at the scenic natural areas below.
Drive on Over: 3 Ways to Get in Touch With Nature Near Fort Smith, AR
1. Go Hiking in the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
The 170-acre Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center at 8300 Wells Lake Road in Fort Smith is the ideal destination to explore on foot. Hike through fields and a young oak-hickory forest filled with birdlife on the short 0.5-mile Field and Forest Trail, enjoy the open spaces on the 0.5-mile Oak Savannah Trail, and wander along the edge of a picturesque steam to spot beavers down the 0.25-mile Beaver Creek Trail.
On the 0.5-mile Upland Trail, deer and coyotes are often seen, and the paved 0.5 Wells Lake Trail which runs along the edge of the lake, is perfect for observing waterfowl, especially blue herons and Canada geese.
2. Cycle and Mountain Bike in Ben Geren Park
Take a leisurely cycle through beautiful areas in Ben Geren Park at 7200 Zero Street down 7.5 miles of paved trails or hit over 14 miles of rugged scenic tracks that cut through untouched open meadows and woodlands filled with bird and animal life.
The single-track trail, fun for cyclists with moderate to advanced skill levels, is listed as one of the eleven premier mountain biking trail systems in the state and is packed with exciting features, including winding switchbacks, rocky sections, and narrow wooden bridges.
3. Wet Your Hook in Wells and Torraine Lakes and the Arkansas River
The 12-acre Wells Lake in the Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center and 15-acre Torraine Lake in Ben Geren Park are a part of the Family and Community Fishing Program and are stocked annually with rainbow trout. Anglers usually reel in one-pounders, but you can hook a 15-pound whopper if you’re lucky. Another great place to cast your line is in the backwaters along the Arkansas River, famous for the Arkansas Big Bass Classic.
The Arkansas largemouth bass record is over sixteen pounds, but anglers mostly reel in one to three-pounders. Channel catfish are plentiful, and if you’re after redear sunfish and bluegill, you can catch them with everything from crickets to worms. Wells Lake and the Arkansas River are teeming with bluegill, and although the state’s record is over three pounds, the average bluegill weighs less than half a pound.
Take a well-deserved break to have fun outdoors in beautiful surroundings. Call Crain Kia of Fort Smith today for a maintenance service to ensure your vehicle gets you safely to your destination.
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What Should You Do If Your Kia Gets Scratched?
Even the most cautious driver sometimes has to deal with scratches in their car’s bodywork. All sorts of things can cause car scratches, from tree branches to errant grocery carts to careless kids. If you find a scratch one day, don’t panic; your vehicle’s resale value hasn’t dropped just yet. Here are some ways to repair a scratch and for a quicker, neater, surer solution you can always visit your local Kia dealer and have them fix it for you.
What Should You Do If Your Kia Gets Scratched?
Broadly speaking, there are three types of scratches to a car’s bodywork: clear coat, base coat, and primer scratches. How you deal with a scratch will depend on which type it is.
Clear Coat Car Scratches
The shallowest of scratches only marks the top clear coat layer. If the scratch is so shallow that your fingernail doesn’t catch in it when you draw it across, then you probably just have a clear coat scratch.
You should be able to remove a simple clear coat with some polishing or buffing with a clean microfiber towel. If you have more than one clear coat scratch or smudge or mark, you could use it as an opportunity to take your car in for detailing at your local dealership. This will have your entire car cleaned inside and out, including professional polishing that will remove any and all clear coat scratches.
Base Coat Scratches
When you can see that the paint has been scratched away (your fingernail catches in the scratch), then you have a deeper base-coat scratch. These are a little harder to fix.
You may be able to remove a base-coat scratch by gently sanding the area with very fine sandpaper and then repairing the clear coat with an aerosol spray from your local auto parts store. But if this doesn’t work, or if you don’t want to risk causing more scratches with the sandpaper, have a professional at your local dealership do it for you.
Deep Primer Scratches
The deepest of scratches dig down into the primer under the clear coat and base coat paint layer, sometimes all the way down to the metalwork. You may be able to repair a deep primer scratch with a scratch repair kit from your local auto parts store before reapplying a new layer of paint.
But fixing deep primer scratches is delicate work that can cause more damage or visual harm if not done correctly. Primer scratches are usually best left in the hands of a professional.
Have Your Kia Dealer Repair the Scratch for You
The difference between at-home scratch repair and professional scratch repair is often visually very clear once the job is finished. With many years or decades of experience with similar jobs, a pro at your nearest dealership can usually make scratches disappear entirely, restoring your Kia’s bodywork to its pristine condition. This is very hard for most ordinary drivers to accomplish alone.
Have your scratch repaired today at Crain Kia of Fort Smith. We’re a full-service local dealership with a number-one goal to provide all our customers with extraordinary customer care.
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A Close-Up Look at the 2023 Kia Rio
The 2023 Rio has everything you need to make your day-to-day commute more enjoyable. It’s a four-door sedan with a sophisticated design and is decked out with premium advanced technologies. Here’s a close-up look at the all-new 2023 Kia Rio.
2023 Kia Rio Overview
The 2023 Rio has two trim models available, the LX and S. The LX is the base model. The S model adds upgraded features like a sliding armrest and available technology package to the four-door sedan. The Rio boasts a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque.
Athletic and Modern Exterior
Sporting an athletic style with LED headlights with high beam assist, the Rio captures the essence of a sleek cruise on the streets. The 15-inch alloy wheels and tiger-nose grille with black mesh add to this sedan’s modern features. The Rio is available in six exterior colors, including currant red, clear white, and sporty blue.
Comfortable Interior
Comfort is a top priority in the Rio, with a tilted steering wheel and column to adjust up or down. A six-way adjustable driver’s seat adds to the comfortable cabin and is fantastic for longer drives. Automatic climate control and a rear occupant alert are also features included in the 2023 Rio.
Additionally, the rear seats split-fold 60/40 to offer additional space for belongings. And there’s also a day/night rearview mirror for visibility any time of the day and an overhead sunglasses holder, so you’ll never forget your shades.
Remote Technology
The driver and front passenger of the Rio have access to an eight-inch touchscreen display for infotainment and Kia Connect services. A standard wireless connection to smartphones using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also available to play your favorite music and connect to your favorite apps.
You can also stay connected and charged with a USB port and Bluetooth wireless technology. In addition, a rear camera display allows you to park the Rio more efficiently, and when you’re away from your car, you can use the Kia Connect app to lock and unlock remotely.
Safety Package
Standard safety systems help you stay safe while driving and notify you of your surroundings. For example, auto emergency braking technology and pedestrian detection help prevent possible accidents. In addition, Lane Keeping helps you stay within your lane as you drive, and forward collision avoidance assist automatically applies brakes if it detects another car or pedestrian in front of you.
If you’re shopping for a new vehicle perfect for everyday use, the 2023 Rio is for you. The sporty exterior, wireless technology, and advanced safety suite raise the bar amongst other sedans on the road. Visit us at Crain Kia of Ft Smith today to test drive the all-new Rio today!
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.