How to increase your vehicle’s fuel economy
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Easy ways to make your vehicle more fuel efficient
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As the weather gets even nicer, drivers will probably spend more time on the road. While many people enjoy cruising around town, very few like to make frequent stops at the gas station. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the road and you don’t want to be stuck at the pump, here are some methods you can use to help increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
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Watch your speed
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While it is alright to indulge your need for speed occasionally, consistently going over the speed limit can hurt your fuel economy. Many vehicles begin burning more fuel when the speedometer reaches 60 mph and above, reducing fuel efficiency by about 33{e443ec709150c73baf180d3d8e0a41d703fa022f47b2bb5516b57735b7c7f19e}. Your fuel economy might also be reduced if you’re sporadically speeding up and slowing down. If you’re on the highway, you can keep your speed consistent by utilizing the cruise control function.
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Inspect your vehicle
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When your vehicle isn’t in top condition, you can’t expect it to perform to the same standards. When you regularly inspect your car, you can identify aspects that may be causing your vehicle to lose some of its fuel efficiency. For instance, many drivers don’t realize that there are aspects of your vehicle that wear out or get dirty, like the air filter. Checking and replacing your air filter when you check your oil is one way to make sure that your vehicle is in its best condition.
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[Related: What is a Flex Fuel vehicle?]
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Fuel Efficient vehicles at OkCarz
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Though increasing your fuel economy is important if you have a vehicle that already provides you with an efficient option, it can be more difficult if you’re starting out with a vehicle that is a gas guzzler. While some are able to opt for electric or hybrid models, there are plenty of used vehicles with excellent fuel economy that drivers are able to choose from. If you’re looking for an efficient pre-owned vehicle, stop by OkCarz to learn more about the options they have available.
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Tips for driving safely near motorcycles
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What to do when you’re driving beside a motorcycle
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During spring and summer, it is likely that you’ll start to notice more drivers with two wheels on the road. With nice weather comes the motorcyclists, and that can lead to many drivers not knowing what they should do when riding next to a motorcycle. While driving next to a motorcycle, drivers need to stay aware of the smaller vehicles that might be beside them. Following these tips can help you drive safely next to motorcycles.
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Check your blind spots
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While checking your blind spot should be a quick check, you need to be aware of the fact that there might be a vehicle that you can’t see there. Since motorcycles are much smaller than even the most compact vehicle, it can be hard for drivers to see them when switching lanes. Be sure that you thoroughly check your blind spot before changing lanes or merging, so you don’t accidentally move into a spot occupied by a motorcyclist.
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Give them plenty of space
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You’re sharing the road with a lot of different people, and motorcycle riders are no exception. When you’re driving, be sure to stay far enough behind a motorcyclist so that you have enough time to react should something quickly change. You also need to respect that a motorcycle, though small, is entitled to its own lane, meaning that you shouldn’t make moves to try and share a lane being occupied by a motorcycle.
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[Related: What to do after you’ve been in a car accident]
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How to share the road with motorcycles
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When going out on a bike, it is important that motorcyclists do everything that they can to keep themselves safe, like wearing a helmet and other protective gear, as well as remaining observant of the vehicles around them. Drivers also must take care to help keep motorcyclists safe on the road by paying attention. While it can be difficult to be on your A-Game the entire time you’re driving, there are plenty of safety systems that can help you identify dangerous situations, even when you’re driving a used vehicle. Drivers can learn more about vehicular safety and find tips and tricks for driving on the OkCarz blog.
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What is a Flex Fuel vehicle?
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Are there benefits to buying a Flex Fuel vehicle?
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One of the most pressing concerns that drivers have when they are shopping for a new vehicle is making sure that the model they choose is good for the environment. Those who are looking at different options for low emission vehicles can consider purchasing a Flex Fuel vehicle. Designed to run on either gasoline or a blend of gasoline and 85{e443ec709150c73baf180d3d8e0a41d703fa022f47b2bb5516b57735b7c7f19e} ethanol, generally called E85, Flex Fuel vehicles are an option for drivers who are trying to lower their carbon footprint.
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As the primary component in E85 is ethanol, with only about 15{e443ec709150c73baf180d3d8e0a41d703fa022f47b2bb5516b57735b7c7f19e} gasoline, you’re releasing fewer greenhouse gases. However, while E85 is slightly better when it comes to helping protect the environment, you may end up stopping to fill up more often, as Flex Fuel vehicles are often a little less fuel efficient than traditional gasoline engines or hybrid and electric vehicles. For the most part, drivers who are looking for a surefire way to decrease their carbon footprint are better off choosing an electric vehicle. However, there are some reasons why a Flex Fuel vehicle can be a better option.
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[Related: What is a hybrid vehicle?]
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Can you use E85 and gasoline at the same time?
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In addition to the lower emissions, a huge benefit of the Flex Fuel vehicles is their ability to utilize both regular gasoline and E85. While E85 can be hard to find in some areas, you won’t have to worry about being stuck without the ability to refill your vehicle, like many people are with electric vehicles. Even if you’ve previously used E85, there isn’t any problem switching back to regular gasoline the next time you fill up.
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With the increased focus on hybrid and electric technology, many manufacturers have stopped making Flex Fuel vehicles. However, those who are looking to take their first steps toward a vehicle that produces fewer emissions, a used Flex Fuel vehicle might be the right fit for you. There are a variety of Flex Fuel options available at OkCarz for you to check out.
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How does depreciation affect used vehicles?
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Measuring depreciation on a pre-owned vehicle
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While buying a brand-new car can seem like an investment, you begin losing value the second you drive off of the dealership lot. Within the first year of ownership, a new vehicle will lose an average of 20{e443ec709150c73baf180d3d8e0a41d703fa022f47b2bb5516b57735b7c7f19e} of its value. For many drivers, the best way to escape the initial depreciation hit is to instead choose to purchase a pre-owned vehicle.
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While the rate of depreciation slows after the first year, it doesn’t completely stop. With new car depreciation, you can depend on the fact that your new vehicle will lose about 20{e443ec709150c73baf180d3d8e0a41d703fa022f47b2bb5516b57735b7c7f19e} of its value after the first year, but depreciation for used cars can vary based on different factors. One of the biggest variables that contribute to used vehicle depreciation is the demand for the style of vehicle. For example, there’s demand for crossovers and SUVs now, so drivers who are buying a pre-owned crossover will be paying higher prices and may have a harder time finding the vehicle that they want. However, their used crossover will hold value until the next big thing comes along. For contrast, a sedan is more likely to be available at a lower price point because it doesn’t have to same desire attached.
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[Related: Choosing a pre-owned family vehicle]
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How to choose a vehicle that maintains its value
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To protect your pre-owned vehicle from depreciation, you should try to make sure that you’re buying a vehicle that is essentially timeless. There’s something to be said for fun colors and funky designs, but it can hurt your vehicle’s value in the long run if you choose something too outlandish. It is also beneficial to search for a used vehicle that comes equipped with a variety of technology and safety features, which make your vehicle more valuable even as the technology ages. To find a variety of popular used models that have all of the features that you need, visit one of the five OkCarz locations and view the online inventory.
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Benefits of a diesel engine vs a gasoline engine in a pre-owned truck
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Most of the time, drivers who are shopping for a pickup truck are looking for a vehicle that is capable of handling a variety of jobs, with plenty of power and enhanced capability. When looking for a truck, there are many things to consider before you make the purchase, but one of the most important choices you’ll have to make is deciding whether you want a gasoline or diesel-powered engine.
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There are benefits to both engine options, but depending on what you’re looking for, one could be a better fit than the other. If you’re looking for a used truck that has better fuel economy, your best option is generally a diesel. While it costs more to buy diesel fuel, you won’t spend as much time at the pump. However, on newer trucks with gasoline engines, the gap in fuel efficiency is closing. There is little difference between a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado with a turbo-diesel and a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado with a traditional gasoline engine.
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[Related: Truck models with good fuel economy ratings]
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How does your engine affect towing capability?
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One aspect where gasoline and diesel engines differ is when you’re comparing horsepower and torque. While a gasoline engine often offers more horsepower, you’ll likely get better torque from a diesel engine. Horsepower measures the vehicle’s power and is generally related to speed and performance. However, drivers who are looking for a vehicle that is a workhorse will want something that also has a fairly high torque rating. Higher torque means that you’ll be able to tow or carry more, giving your vehicle more capability.
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Overall, your decision comes down to how you’ll be using your vehicle. If you only plan to do light towing, but will be spending a lot of time driving, a gasoline engine might be your best fit. Those who need a vehicle that offers the ability to tow a heavily loaded trailer will likely want to look closer at a truck with a diesel engine. Drivers who stop by one of the five OkCarz locations will be able to choose from a variety of options, like the Ford F-150 or the Toyota Tacoma.
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What is the best way to pay for a used car?
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Methods to use when paying for a used vehicle upfront
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There is a lot to consider before you buy a vehicle. You have to decide what style of vehicle you want, which features it needs to have, and how you’re going to pay for it. While most drivers will need to finance some or all of their vehicle purchase, there are plenty who will be putting a down payment on their vehicle. When you’re paying up front for your car, there are a variety of ways that you can pay.
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The most efficient way to pay for your vehicle is to bring a cashier’s check, which is more secure than a personal check, and guarantees that the funds are actually available. If you are going through a bank where you have an account, they will draw the funds needed from your account, but if you’re going to a bank where you aren’t an account holder, you’ll need to bring the payment in cash, as well as enough for any additional fees. Do not just walk to the dealership with a cashier’s check for a random amount of money. A cashier’s check needs to be made out to the recipient, and you’ll need to know exactly how much you’ll be paying for your vehicle. You could also choose to pay for your vehicle using cash, though many people feel uncomfortable carrying around the amount of money that is needed to buy a car.
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[Related: Putting a down payment on a used vehicle]
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Can you pay for a car using a credit card?
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When it comes to payment, many people no longer use cash, choosing instead to put everything on either a debit or credit card. When you’re making a down payment on your vehicle, you might be able to use a debit card, but it isn’t likely. Before you go to purchase the vehicle, ask somebody, and if they say no, make other arrangements. When it comes to buying a vehicle with a credit card, you’ll need to ask at the dealership first to make sure that they’ll allow it.
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While there are some rewards benefits to making a large purchase on a credit card, like airline miles or cash back, you’ll want to make sure that you’re able to pay for everything that you’ll need to without hitting your limit. If you’re using a credit card so you can pay off your purchase over time, it might be smarter to consider financing through your bank or at the dealership. When you buy a used vehicle from OkCarz, you’ll have access to financing options regardless of your current situation. Learn more about your financing options, or even apply for pre-approval online at the OkCarz website.
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Understanding long and short-term loans
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How long should you finance your vehicle?
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Financing a vehicle is something that most people have to do. When you finance a vehicle, you essentially break the total cost down into more manageable monthly payments. While the obvious benefit is that you don’t have to pay the full cost of your vehicle outright, you might end up paying more, depending on how long your loan term is. When you apply for financing, you’ll likely want to know how long your vehicle should be financed for.
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Loans generally last for two to seven years and are measured in monthly increments. So, a five-year loan is written as being for 60 months. Generally, the more expensive your vehicle, the longer your loan term. When you have a longer loan term, you’ll be paying less every month, but you’ll be continuously accumulating interest, which drives up the overall cost you’ll be paying for your vehicle.
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[Related: How to make a budget]
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Should you finance with a long or short-term loan?
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While loans with longer terms are often advised against, for some people, it is the only way they’ll be able to afford a vehicle. While you’ll save money in the long run with a shorter loan term, you’ll end up paying a lot more from month to month. With the shorter-term loan, a reasonably priced vehicle can require what seems like exceedingly high monthly payments, but with a lower interest rate. For drivers who have a strict monthly budget, paying for the lower monthly cost is much more appealing, and sometimes necessary.
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There are a lot of factors that can go into deciding your loan terms, and in many cases, your financial situation plays a role. Drivers who are not able to qualify for traditional bank financing can visit OkCarz to learn more about their financing options. When financing with OkCarz, you can begin to repair and re-establish your credit. Apply for pre-approval and visit one of the five OkCarz locations to find a used vehicle and loan term that works for you.
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St. Patrick’s Day Events in Tampa, FL
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What should you do for St. Patrick’s Day 2018 near Tampa, FL
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Get your green out and get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2018 in Tampa, FL. No matter what how you’re looking to celebrate, there’s something fun for everyone to participate in. Whether you’re looking for a bar crawl, or if you want to spend the day with your family enjoying all sorts of entertainment, you’ll be able to find an event that fits all of your needs.
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St. Puppy’s Day
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March 11, 2018
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O’Brien’s Irish Pub of Brandon
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Even though St. Patrick’s Day isn’t until March 17, you can get in the spirit, see some cute dogs, and support a good cause at St. Puppy’s Day, which takes place from 2 pm-6 pm on March 11, 2018, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub of Brandon. Bring your own pup and participate in the dog costume contest or just buy raffle tickets and enjoy the food and fun!
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Bottomless Brunch Crawl
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March 17, 2018
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District Tavern
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Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day festivities early with Bottomless Brunch at District Tavern from 10 am until noon. Once you’ve had your fill of all-you-can-eat brunch and bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys, you can join to pub crawl, which will run on a 30-minute loop between the second location and the Mayor’s River O’Green Fest until 3 pm.
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[Read More: How much room is there in a full-sized SUV?]
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Mayor’s River O’Green Fest
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March 17, 2018
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Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
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Watch the Hillsborough River go green during the Mayor’s River O’Green Fest. Besides the dyeing of the river at 11 am, there is also the River o’Green Gallop, a 2-mile run/walk that starts the festivities at 9 am, as well as live entertainment and many other games and activities for the whole family. Take part in this free event, enjoy some local food trucks and even participate in a Scavenger Hunt!
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Save some Green at OkCarz
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While St. Patrick’s Day is a great time to get decked out in green, drivers who are looking to purchase a vehicle can find a variety of used models, like hybrids and luxury vehicles at OkCarz. A benefit of buying a pre-owned vehicle is that you’ll be able to save a little bit of green with a reasonably priced model and excellent financing options.
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Where Can I Go Golfing in Orlando, Florida?
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Best Golf Courses in Orlando, FL
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Here in Florida, November is one of the best months to go out for a round of golf. Cooler temperatures and peak course conditions make this time of year ideal for golf lovers. Keep reading to check out three of the best golf courses in Orlando, Florida!
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[ READ MORE: Top Golf Courses in Tampa, FL ]
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Dubsdread Golf Course
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Minutes away from downtown Orlando, Dubsdread Golf Course is one of the most highly rated golf courses in Orlando. With beautiful courses, friendly service, and more, you will love your visit to Dubsdread Golf Course. Are you a frequent golfer and are interested in a membership? Sign up for a seven-day, weekday, family, or junior membership! To learn about the prices, memberships, events, and more, visit the Dubsdread Golf Course website here.
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Shingle Creek Golf Club
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Shingle Creek Golf Club is a luxurious and relaxing place to golf within Orlando. With ties to the famous golfer, Arnold Palmer, this golf club features challenging courses, tournament course conditions, a gorgeous hotel, and much more! Want to learn more about Shingle Creek Golf Club? Check out its website here.
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Bay Hill Club & Lounge
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Founded by golfing legend Arnold Palmer himself, Bay Hill Club & Lounge is a famous golf club right in Palmer’s hometown of Orlando, Florida. This luxurious golf club is one of the best private golf clubs in the world and was the site of a major event for the PGA TOUR back in 1979. Stay in a hotel, golf on challenging courses, play tennis, visit the spa, learn how to golf with the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy, and more! Discover how to become a member or registered guest on the Bay Hill Club & Lounge website.
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Used Chevy Impala Technology and Interior Features
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Efficient, reliable, powerful, and comfortable are all words that describe the Chevrolet Impala. This full-size sedan offers a wonderful experience thanks to its powerful engine, efficient fuel economy, luxurious interior, and convenient technology. Here, we will take a brief look at what a used Chevy Impala could offer regarding its technology and interior features.
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[ Browse our used Chevrolet Impala inventory here at OkCarz! ]
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Used Chevrolet Impala Connectivity and Safety Technology
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In today’s digital age, vehicles are loaded with different technologies designed to entertain and protect. Depending on the model you choose, a diversity of technology features can be offered inside the Chevy Impala. These features can include Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, the Chevrolet Infotainment System, myChevrolet mobile app, Bose® audio system, wireless device charging, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth® connectivity, and much more! Let’s not forget about the various safety features you can choose from in the Chevy Impala. As you shop, watch for helpful features like blind spot monitoring, low-tire pressure warning, parking assist, lane-departure warning, forward collision warning, and more.
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Used Chevy Impala Interior and Comfort Features
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Part of what makes the Chevy Impala a favorite is that it offers many luxurious features for an affordable price. Some of these interior and comfort amenities include remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, power driver and passenger seats, ventilated front driver and passenger seats, keyless start, leather steering wheel, and more. With a used Chevy Impala, you and your passengers will experience an enjoyable and relaxing ride.
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Want to learn more about the Chevrolet Impala? Reach out to us here at OkCarz! We’d be happy to show you which used Chevy Impala models we have available. See one you like? Schedule a test drive with us so you can see if this impressive sedan is the right fit for you.
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