Have you ever heard of an EV but didn’t really know what it was? Have you seen these futuristic looking cars and wonder what made them different from others? These are electric vehicles. Unlike regular cars, they run on electricity! In today’s world, cars are becoming more eco-friendly and Hyundai is leading with its options. They offer electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. Both are great choices if you want to save on gas and reduce your carbon footprint. Let’s look at the main differences between Hyundai’s EVs and hybrids.

How They Work

When it comes to EVs, these vehicles run entirely on electricity. Instead of a traditional gas engine, they have an electric motor powered by a battery pack. Imagine having to wake up and you get in your car in the morning and realize you don’t have enough gas to make it to work. Well, with an EV that would never happen! Here is a list of Hyundai’s electric vehicles: 

• 2023 IONIQ 6
• 2023 IONIQ 5
• 2024 KONA Electric (coming late 2023 in select states)
• 2023 KONA Electric (only sold in selected states)

As for hybrid vehicles, they have both a gas engine and electric motor. They can run on gas, electricity, or a combination of both. Here’s the list of Hyundai’s hybrid vehicles:

• 2023 TUCSON HYBRID
• 2023 SANTA FE HYBRID
• 2023 ELANTRA Hybrid
• 2023 SONATA Hybrid

Emissions

If saving the planet and making it a clean environment is important to you, then think about getting an EV or hybrid. The best part about electric vehicles is that they have 0 emissions. This means that they don’t emit harmful gasses into the air. This makes for a cleaner environment. Hybrids emit fewer gasses than regular gas cars. Have you gone outside and smelled those horrible fumes coming from large trucks? Those gasses can be very harmful! 

Driving Range and Charging

Hyundai has been making a great effort to continue to improve the driving range of their vehicles. The 2023 Ioniq 6 SE Long Range model has a whopping range up to 361 miles! That’s pretty impressive. Charging is also easy because public charging stations are popping up all over the place. As far as hybrids go, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid goes up to 56 mpg on the highway. The cool part about it is that you don’t need to charge it as they recharge themselves. 

When it comes to electric vehicles, one of the best things about them is low maintenance and no oil changes! In my experience, car maintenance always seems to come up at the most inconvenient times, so knowing that there isn’t as much maintenance as a gas vehicle makes it a lot easier. You end up saving a lot of money in the long run which is a plus for me. Hyundai hybrids are designed to be fuel efficient so this saves trips to the gas station. 

Hyundai is taking a step in the right direction to make the planet cleaner. Reducing pollution is important and these vehicle options allow for that. You have to think about your daily driving habits, charging options, and budget. For instance, if you live in an apartment community like I do, don’t let that stop you from thinking you won’t be able to charge your electric vehicle at your home. Check to make sure they offer charging stations in the parking area. If you live in a smaller town, check online to see where they offer charging stations. A hybrid is just as much a great choice giving you a taste of eco-friendly driving! Both are great options that Hyundai can offer! Check out Crain Hyundai’s inventory of EVs and Hybrids here!

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At Crain Hyundai of Conway, we’re not just about selling vehicles; we’re about creating experiences. We understand the beauty of the open road and the allure of the perfect drive. Buckle up, start your engines, and let’s discover the Natural State together!

1. Hot Springs National Park

A trip to Arkansas is incomplete without visiting the country’s oldest federal reserve. Hot Springs National Park is a treat for those who love nature and wellness. With a history dating back over a century, the park offers hot spring baths, historic monuments and revitalizing downtown experience. The scenic drives leading to and from the park are a pleasure for any car enthusiast. Don’t miss the winding roads of West Mountain Drive, offering sweeping views of the Ouachita Mountains and the city of Hot Springs.

2. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Located in Bentonville, the Crystal Bridges Museum is a feast for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. Its striking architecture and the stunning natural surroundings make the drive alone worth it, especially in a comfortable, spacious vehicle from Crain Hyundai of Conway. The museum hosts a permanent collection of five centuries of American masterpieces and rotating exhibits. It’s a perfect day trip for families and art aficionados alike, to one of Arkansas most attractive cities. 

3. Mount Magazine State Park

The drive to the highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine, is a thrilling experience with breathtaking views. The park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even hang gliding for the more adventurous. The journey to the peak is an adventure in itself, with winding roads that demand a vehicle that handles well in all conditions. And once you’re there, sweeping vistas and breathtaking views are your reward. 

4. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

A trip to Arkansas is not just about natural beauty; it’s also a journey through American history. Little Rock Central High School is a significant site in the Civil Rights Movement, and a visit here can be a poignant and educational experience. And Little Rock is located in the center of the state, making an excellent staging ground for a variety of these other road trips! 

5. Eureka Springs

This unique Victorian resort village is a world unto itself. With winding streets filled with art, antiques, and Victorian architecture, Eureka Springs is a gem nestled in the Ozark Mountains. The journey there is equally enchanting, especially if you’re driving a reliable vehicle that you can trust on the hilly terrain.

Before you head out on your adventure, make sure to get your vehicle checked or consider upgrading to a new one that can handle these exciting journeys. At Crain Hyundai of Conway, we’re here to make sure you’re safe and comfortable on your road trips. Whether it’s a compact car for city exploration, a sturdy SUV for mountainous terrain, or a spacious van for family trips, we’ve got you covered.

Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Here’s to the open road and the freedom of exploration. Happy driving, Arkansas!

Tags: Arkansas, Arkansas Travel, travel
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When it comes to electric vehicles, the 2023 models of both the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 stand out as top contenders in the market. Both models share Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, comfort, and sustainability, but they differ in several aspects. Let’s delve into the details.

Hyundai IONIQ 5

The IONIQ 5 is an all-electric SUV crossover with a 1-speed direct drive transmission, available all-wheel drive, and seating for five. Its motor or motors, depending on choice, deliver up to an impressive 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. 

The IONIQ 5 stands out for its efficiency, boasting an EPA combined MPGe of 98, with an EPA electricity range of 256 miles. It has a battery capacity of 77.4 kWh, which can be fully charged from a 240V power source in about 8.5 hours.

When it comes to safety, the IONIQ 5 comes standard with a host of features including blind spot and lane departure warnings, lane keep assist, pre-collision safety system, and more.

The IONIQ 5 is not only practical and safe, but it’s also stylish. With exterior colors ranging from Atlas White to Gravity Gold and interior colors in black and gray leatherette, there’s an IONIQ 5 for every taste.

Hyundai IONIQ 6

The IONIQ 6 is a sedan and, like its sibling, is an all-electric vehicle featuring a 1-speed direct drive transmission and available all-wheel drive. The motor’s performance options match that of the IONIQ 5, delivering up to 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque in the dual motor setup, and the car also shares the same towing and payload capacities.

The IONIQ 6 shares the IONIQ 5’s stylish aesthetics, with the same range of exterior and interior color options available. 

The biggest difference between the two is that the IONIQ 6 is a sedan, so it’s interior storage space is going to be a bit more limited than its larger, crossover counterpart. But with the same underpinnings and attention to detail, the biggest choice you’ll be making is whether you want a more city friendly sedan or the more versatile crossover. 

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 are both exceptional electric vehicles that offer a blend of performance, safety, and style. Both cars promise an impressive driving experience and a step towards a more sustainable future. Come by Crain Hyundai of Conway today and compare the two for yourself!

Tags: Crain Hyundai, CRAIN HYUNDAI CONWAY, electric, ioniq
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Electric cars have become increasingly popular in recent years but they have some considerations beyond those of gas-powered cars. Knowing what you need out of a vehicle, how you plan to use it and what various electric vehicles (EVs) can offer will make sure that you get the perfect car. So here’s a few things to keep in mind. 

Range

The biggest consideration is range. For the longest time, the overall range capability of electric vehicles was the biggest obstacle to mass adoption. These days, however, getting over 300 miles of range is fairly standard among larger EVs with larger battery packs. Which makes them quite a bit more viable as a primary family car. But you may not need that much range. While it’s certainly nice to have it available, if you live in the city or fairly close to work, you may not drive that far on a day-to-day basis and a car with a shorter range will more than suffice. 

Charging Potential and Infrastructure

A factor that goes hand-in-hand with range is the charging speed and charging infrastructure for your car. Improvements in this area are coming super fast and some EVs can charge from 20% to 80% in a matter of minutes. It’s still not as fast as filling up a gas tank, but long gone are the days of driving an EV meaning that a 300 mile drive becomes an overnight trip. This does mean that longer trips may require some planning, making sure that fast charging stations that match your car are present along your route. 

Cost

It’s no secret that EVs can often have a higher up-front cost than similarly equipped gas-powered vehicles. But this is often offset by government incentive programs and is certainly made up in a lower operating cost. Consider, you’ll never have to buy gas or pay for an oil change or coolant flush ever again. The regular maintenance costs of an EV are significantly lower than those of an internal combustion engine. Even though the electricity to charge them isn’t free, the overall cost savings is remarkable. In addition, EVs retain their value exceptionally well and so they tend to resell at a higher price point. 

Electric vehicles come with a couple of considerations that their gas-powered counterparts don’t have. But this is more a small change than a total overhaul of how we think about cars. For example, considering electric range as opposed to miles-per-gallon. If you have any questions about purchasing an electric vehicle, we’d be happy to help you at Chris Crain Hyundai!

Tags: Crain Hyundai, electric vehicles, Kona
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Summer is a great time to take stock of your car and do some routine maintenance. At Chris Crain Hyundai, we know how important this regular maintenance is to the life of your vehicle. So here’s a few tips to keep your car running at its best not just for your summer vacation but for as long as possible. 

Check Your Coolant

It’s that time of year when scorching summer temps can wreak havoc on your engine. It’s time to double check your coolant. Not only do you need to check and make sure your coolant is full, it might also be time to replace it. Coolant tends to degrade over time and generally has an effective lifespan of 5-7 years. So it might be time for a flush, in which case bring your car into our stellar service department! While you’re in there, check out the hoses and connections for signs of wear and make sure everything is in top shape. 

AC System

Arkansas summers are a really bad time to be caught with a dead air conditioner. Your vehicle’s AC system can be a bit tricky to service on your own so if you notice that it’s not cooling as well as it should, then bring it to our service department. We can do a full inspection and, if necessary, service to get it back in working order. You don’t want to be driving around this year without it!

Battery

Battery performance can struggle when temperatures get into the extremes. Both really hot and really cold temps can make your battery feel weak and have trouble starting your car. So get your battery tested to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. If it needs to be replaced, you can probably do this yourself. Just give us a call and we can help you source the proper battery. But if you don’t want to mess with it, our service department is always available to take care of it! 

Wash and Wax

A regular car wash and coat of high quality wax is more than just vanity. Removing dirt, debris and tree sap is essential to the life of your paint. And a coat of wax can further help protect your paint from UV rays and limit the damage caused by grit and grime getting on your car just from driving. While you’re at it, give your interior a good cleaning and surface treatment. It’s not always possible to park in the shade, so this can help prolong the life of your interior materials in the summer heat. 

You can do a lot to improve the life of your vehicle just by taking care of some regular maintenance and summer is a great time to do it. If you don’t want to mess with doing it yourself, then feel free to give us a call and we’ll get our service department to give your Hyundai a full inspection and take care of any work that needs to be done.

Tags: Crain Hyundai, Maintenance, Summer Fun
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As SUVs continue to dominate the automotive market, car manufacturers are consistently improving their models and pushing the boundaries of design and technology. We’ll take a look at two of the most popular models on the market, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride, and see how they stack up against each other. 

At first glance, the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride have a lot of similarities. However, the Palisade’s exterior design stands out with its sleek body lines and bold front grille. Additionally, the Palisade’s larger and more stylish alloy wheels give it a sportier and more upscale look compared to the Telluride’s more practical and rugged design.

Tech and Features

When it comes to technology and features, the Hyundai Palisade takes the lead. The Palisade offers a larger touchscreen display compared to the Telluride, making it easier to navigate and control. Additionally, the Palisade comes with a unique infotainment system that is user-friendly and responsive. Other unique features of the Palisade include wireless charging and an abundance of driver assistance features, making it a clear choice for families and tech-savvy individuals.

This puts the Palisade at an advantage, especially for those who prioritize convenience and comfort in their driving experience.

Performance

The Hyundai Palisade and its corporate cousin Kia Telluride share many features, such as the same platform and 291 horsepower engine. However, the Palisade offers a smoother, more refined and comfortable ride compared to the Telluride. 

While the Kia is a great SUV and has an attractive feature list, overall it’s the Hyundai Palisade that stands out. With its sleek and upscale design, impressive technology and features, and overall superior performance, it is the ideal choice for people who prioritize convenience, comfort, and aesthetics. 

So, if you’re in the market for a new SUV, the Hyundai Palisade is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

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As the automotive world evolves, the competition between automakers has become more intense and at Chris Crain Hyundai, we know how much that can muddy the waters. The midsize sedan segment is no exception, so let’s take a look at two of the most popular models: the 2023 Hyundai Sonata and the 2023 Kia K5. 

Power and Performance

Firstly, let’s talk about powertrains. The 2023 Hyundai Sonata comes with two engines: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 191 horsepower, and an optional 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 180 horsepower. On the other hand, the 2023 Kia K5 has only one engine: a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 180 horsepower. While the horsepower and torque numbers are identical, the Sonata’s base engine provides a smoother driving experience, with excellent fuel economy.

Tech and Safety

When it comes to technology, the Hyundai Sonata takes the lead with its 10.25-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, compared to the K5’s standard 8 inch display. Additionally, the Sonata comes with features like satellite radio, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Safety is an important feature of any vehicle, and the Hyundai Sonata delivers in this department. The Sonata comes with standard forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. While the Kia K5 has similar features, some of them are optional, making the Sonata a great deal in even the standard, base trim.

Comfort

Moving on to cabin comfort, the Sonata is a clear winner with its spacious interior, comfortable seats with a variety of adjustments, and legroom both front and back. Furthermore, the Sonata’s sleek, modern design and high-quality materials give it a luxury feel, surpassing the K5 in terms of interior design.

While the 2023 Kia K5 is a good contender in the midsize sedan segment, the 2023 Hyundai Sonata takes the lead with its superior powertrain options, advanced technology features, better safety ratings, and spacious interior design. 

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The competition in the small SUV market could not be hotter and two of the best offerings are the 2023 Hyundai Kona and the 2023 Mazda CX-30. So how do they stack up against each other? Which one is right for you? Let’s find out! 

The Powertrains And Performance

The base engines of both the Kona and the CX-30 are more than capable of getting them around town, but the optional turbocharged engines of both cars are where they really start to shine and this is where the Kona shines the brightest. Although the Mazda puts out a respectable 227 horsepower, the Kona turbocharged engine produces 276 horsepower while also weighing about 500 pounds less. 

Combine this with the Kona’s remarkable grip and confidence-inspired handling, and you get a SUV that drives smoothly, which makes it great for getting around town. And while it may seem counter intuitive, a more powerful engine makes long trips less fatiguing. 

The Interior And Technology

While both cars are certainly well appointed inside, the Kona steps ahead here too. The controls and touchscreen interface are laid out intuitively and within easy reach. There’s also plenty of little cubbies and interior pockets for phones, water bottles, coffee mugs, sunglasses and more. You’ll get broad, supportive seating and plenty of legroom both in the front seats and the rear. 

The Kona also has a selection of electronic driving aids, including the remarkable Highway Driving Assist that is a semi-automated driving system. Such features aren’t even an option in the Mazda. 

Warranty

One of the Kona’s best standout features is actually the standard warranty. The Mazda CX-30 comes with a decent 3 year basic and 5 year drivetrain warranty, but the Kona far exceeds this with a 5 year basic and 10 year powertrain warranty. This is a remarkable warranty, especially in this class of vehicle. You can rest easy knowing you’ll be covered. 

While the Mazda CX-30 is certainly a worthy competitor, it’s just that. A competitor. The Hyundai Kona stands above it in both performance and value and we’d love to show you more about it! So swing on by Chris Crain Hyundai in Conway, AR today!

Tags: compact suv, CRAIN HYUNDAI CONWAY, Hyundai SUV, Kona, new car
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The Compact Truck market was on life support until it came bursting back onto the scene a couple years ago. Thanks in large part to the popularity of the Hyundai Santa Cruz and the Ford Maverick. While they both have a lot to offer, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz takes the cake. By offering an extraordinary combination of power, utility and value, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the compact pickup of choice. 

Compare The Power

Both small trucks come with a base engine and optional turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that deliver similar power and a 0-60 in mid six seconds. But where the Ford Maverick drives and feels very truck-like, the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a sportier, more refined car-like driving experience while still being the compact truck it needs to be. Both also come with available AWD configurations, which adds to the Hyundai Santa Cruz’s composure and poise in the city and allows it to handle less than ideal road conditions. 

Interiors

The interiors of the Ford Maverick and the Santa Cruz diverge depending on their design roots. Where the Ford Maverick is simple, easy to navigate and well apportioned, it also embraces its roots as a truck. The Hyundai Santa Cruz, on the other hand, embraces its sedan roots. It offers a smoother ride and more spacious front and rear seats. It’s also a bit more future ready, putting the touchscreen and related controls in easy reach. 

Storage

You wouldn’t be looking at trucks if storage, towing and hauling weren’t important. While the Ford Maverick has a commendable 4,000 pound towing capacity, the Santa Cruz gets up to a max of 5,000 pounds. Similarly, the Maverick offers a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds, which is bested by the Santa Cruz’s 1,609 pounds. The Santa Cruz also has an in-bed trunk that adds additional storage space on top of the bed. It’s fitted with a drain, so you can use it to store any belongings, or even a small ice chest. 

While both the 2023 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz offer the utility and performance of a compact truck, the Santa Cruz edges out the Ford in the areas that matter most. Come by Crain Hyundai today and take a look!

Tags: car comparison, compact suv, CRAIN HYUNDAI CONWAY, crossover, new car, santa cruz, SUV, truck
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Winter weather provides its own demands and while it’s not something we commonly see in central Arkansas, it does happen frequently enough that we should know our way around the pitfalls. And we all know that even though its March, thats no guarantee we won’t still see some winter weather this year. Not only does being aware of the challenges keep us safe, but it provides a safer environment for other motorists.

So let’s look at 5 tips for driving in winter weather because while it might be the end of February, we all know how unpredictable it can get here in central Arkansas.

1. 1. 1. Slow Down. We know, we know this isn’t quite the fun you wanted to hear but it’s no secret that ice and snow are slippery! And we’re in a perfect climate where temperatures can rapidly cycle from below freezing to above freezing and back again. This makes for particularly sneaky little patches of ice where you might not suspect them.
         It also helps low visibility conditions when it’s actively snowing or sleeting. 
      2. Check your roof! So you’ve come out to your car after it’s snowed or iced. You scrape off your windshield, hop in and drive off to work. All the while, snow and ice are flying off your roof and trunk lid all over the windshields of the cars behind you. That can be dangerous. Take an extra minute or two and scrape off your roof and trunk lid. Don’t use your ice scraper for this, though. The combination of harsh edges and cold temps can damage your paint. Instead, use something like a file folder, old pizza box or something similar. 
      3. Be extra careful on bridges. We’re all familiar with the road signs that say “bridge may ice in cold weather” but this can be especially true when temperatures are right on the edge of freezing. Warmer ground temps can keep most pavement clear of ice but freezing air blowing around underneath bridges could cause them to freeze well before ice forms anywhere else. It also means they’ll defrost later than other parts of the highway. 
      4. Give your car some time to warm up. Freezing temps can cause havoc with your belts and fluids. Cranking up the engine and immediately hitting the highway isn’t a great idea. Give yourself some extra time in the morning to start your car and let it idle for a few minutes before you go tearing off down the road. 
      5. Check your tires for two things. The first, and hopefully most obvious, is proper tread depth. Driving through layers of snow, sleet and ice mush is much less dangerous if you have proper tread depth on your tires. But much less obvious is the air pressure. Colder temps mean denser air, which means less air pressure in your tires. But then that air in your tires heats up as you drive, causing rapid fluctuations in air pressure which can cause damage to your tires over time. So once the temps drop, check your air pressure and you might find you need to hit the air pumps. 

      By keeping a few basics in mind, we can make winter weather driving much safer for ourselves and others!

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