Monday, September 10, 2007

2006 Kia Rio: Use and Toss?

Kia vehicles have managed to make significant strides in quality and durability since being introduced to the US market in 1994. Widely panned by critics as producing cheaply built and cheaply priced models, some Kia models are now performing at average or slightly above. The Kia Rio is not one of these cars, however. Only the extended warranty makes the Rio worth a look otherwise slightly more expensive cars from Toyota are preferable.

With a base MSRP of just $10,735, the Kia Rio is touted as still the most affordable 4-door sedan in America. Certainly, when it comes to price, the Rio is a winner. Add in standard features such as dual remote mirrors, driver lumbar support seats, and the extended warranty, and the car is a value leader. Of course, air conditioning will cost you extra and dont expect to find any type of radio in the car either unless you pay extra for it. Remember, the emphasis is on value, not equipment.

The Kia is powered by a 1.6L DOHC 16 valve I4 engine paired with a five speed manual transmission. The five passenger sedan produces an anemic 104hp; a four speed automatic transmission is optional.

Various upgrade packages allow consumers to select additional comfort and convenience options as well as safety features including four wheel antilock brakes. One almost thinks that a customer would do better purchasing the basic model and then purchasing Kia accessories through a parts wholesaler to maximize the cars value.

The best part of the Rio -- or any Kia car for that matter -- is the extended warranty, one of the best in the industry. Without it, the Rio would be truly forgettable. Kias warranty covers the following:

  • Limited Powertrain: 10 years or 100,000 miles

  • Limited Basic: 5 years or 60,000 miles

  • Limited Anti-Perforation: 5 years or 100,000 miles

  • Roadside Assistance: 5 years / unlimited miles

    The Kia Rio serves the purpose of providing cheap, basic transportation. If you drive a lot and need an economical car, then the Rio is worth a look. Just dont think that the car rises to the level of a Toyota, otherwise you will be sorely disappointed. You may get five or six good years out of the car before its value decreases to the point where it simply should be discarded.

    Matt Keegan is an automotive enthusiast and contributing writer for the Auto Parts Warehouse [APW]. At APW, we supply quality Kia accessories for your Rio, Sedona, Amanti, or other fine Kia vehicle.

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  • Fun Party Food Ideas for Kid Birthday Parties

    Planning a kids birthday party can have its frustrations. Depending on the age of the child, youve got more than a few things to consider. What theme? How many guests? Where will you have the party? What kind of food should you serve? If you want to make your childs birthday party a memorable one, you might consider planning a simple yet fun menu. Everyone does a party with cake and ice cream. How about serving your young guests delicious appetizers that theyll ask their parents to make for their parties too?

    Here are a few suggestions for fun party foods that kids absolutely love!

    Pizza Muffins

    1 can refrigerated biscuits
    1 cup tomato sauce
    1 cup shredded cheese
    1/2 lb. ground meat, browned & drained
    1 tsp. onion salt
    1 tsp. Italian seasoning

    In a muffin pan, place a biscuit in each cup, pressing until it completely covers bottom and sides. Combine tomato sauce, onion salt and Italian seasoning. Place 1 tablespoon of tomato mixture and 1 tablespoon of ground meat in each muffin cup; to with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool slightly before removing muffins.

    Apple Lady Bugs

    2 red apples
    1/4 cup raisins
    1 tablespoon peanut butter
    8 thin pretzel sticks

    Slice apples in half from top to bottom, and scoop out the cores using a knife or melon baller. If you have an apple corer, core them first, then slice. Place each apple half flat side down on a small plate. Dab peanut butter on to the back of the 'lady bug', then stick raisins onto the dabs for spots. Use this method to make eyes too. Stick one end of each pretzel stick into a raisin, then press the other end into the apples to make antennae.

    Tag-a-Longs

    1 box Ritz crackers
    1 small jar peanut butter
    Coating chocolate

    Cover Ritz crackers with peanut butter and top with another Ritz crackers to make a "sandwich." Melt chocolate and dip sandwiches in chocolate until covered. Allow to dry.

    Remember to have fun and involve your child in the party planning as well. They will love the experience and the time spent with you. Planning a childs birthday party doesnt have to be stressful or ordinary. Add some fun, personal touches to the event and your party will be a success!

    About the Author: Sherry Frewerd publishes "Toddler-Birthday-Party-Ideas" and other kid and food related websites. Stop by http://toddler-birthday-party-ideas.com and plan a fun, stress-free birthday party for your child! Plan fun toddler activities for your birthday party at "Family Play and Learn" http://familyplayandlearn.com

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