Blog

An alternator is a generator that provides power to keep your vehicle's battery charged. This is an important part of your vehicle, as it cannot run properly if the alternator fails. When you're driving, you'll want to stay alert for some of the warning signs that your vehicle's alternator may be faulty. Take a look at some of the warning signs below, so you can take care of the problem as soon as possible. more Abnormal Engine Sounds and Smells If you start your engine and it makes squealing or rattling noises, you may need to have your alternator looked at. Additionally, smelling burnt rubber could mean that the alternator belt is deteriorating. Make sure to inspect your alternator belt regularly so that you don't replace the alternator when a less expensive component is creating the issue. Structural Damage Your alternator goes through a lot during its lifetime. Obviously, using it will cause wear over time, and this eventually has an impact on the structural integrity of the part's casing. When inspecting your alternator, look for cracks or other damage, and replace it immediately if you notice any structural damage. If you have repeatedly replaced your alternator as a result of structural damage in an unreasonably short period of time, you may have more significant mechanical issues to deal with. This repeated issue can manifest if a pulley is off-center or the alternator's tensioner is too tight. Battery Refuses To Stay Charged If your battery doesn't stay charged, you could have a couple of different problems. Your battery could be too old to operate correctly, or your alternator could be damaged or dead. If your battery isn't old, the latter is almost certainly the problem. An onboard computer keeps track of the voltage output of your alternator and the charge level of your battery. When either of them has issues, you should see a warning light turn on somewhere on the driver's instrument panel. Starting Difficulty or Stalling If your vehicle stalls at stops or is particularly stubborn when you're trying to start it, you may have a faulty alternator. Make sure you get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible after the first stalling incident. Procrastination can lead to disaster because a vehicle that stalls at the wrong moment can cause a severe accident. Other Systems Keep Failing A failing alternator will cause issues with every electrically powered system and feature in your vehicle. If your outlets and USB ports aren't charging when devices are plugged in, your alternator may need attention. On the same note, your air conditioning and heating systems are connected to the alternator as are the safety systems, so if you notice problems with any of these elements, you should definitely have your alternator checked out. As long as you stay vigilant in terms of vehicle maintenance, you should have no trouble discovering alternator issues before they cause serious problems. If you notice any of the issues listed above, bring your vehicle in to Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN to have it inspected before it becomes a major or costly problem. Image via DealerOn

Toyota recently announced that it plans to bring three new electrified vehicle models to the U.S. market. Learn more about which types of vehicles will be offered and why Toyota's commitment to alternative powertrain vehicles is so important. more Which Types of Vehicles Will Be Introduced? Toyota became a pioneer of alternative fuel vehicles when the company introduced the Prius nearly 25 years ago. Today, it continues to lead the way with cutting-edge and innovative introductions. This includes three new electric vehicles. One will be a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) and two will be battery electric vehicles (BEV). These new electrified offerings will give you multiple powertrain and vehicle choices so you can easily find the one that best suits your needs. They also help Toyota expand into the alternative powertrain market. Currently, the company has over 40% of the total market of alternative fuel vehicles. This includes 64% of the plug-in and hybrid vehicle market and 75% of the fuel cell market. By 2025, Toyota wants 40% of new vehicle sales to be electric models. Additionally, the company wants to increase those sales to nearly 70% by 2030. PHEV Versus BEV When Toyota announced the introduction of the three new electric vehicles, the company also shared internal research that evaluated the cost of ownership and environmental impact between PHEV and BEV options. The company found that PHEV and BEV models offer roughly the same on-road performance. Researchers also found that producing PHEV models releases fewer greenhouse gases since they use smaller and lighter batteries. Additionally, while PHEV models tend to have a lower total cost of ownership when compared to BEV models, Toyota realizes that having multiple options of electric vehicles will make it easier for you to choose the model that works for you while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Other Sustainability Actions To date, Toyota estimates that its hybrid vehicles have helped prevent 139 million tons of greenhouse gases from being released into the atmosphere. However, offering more electric vehicle options isn't the only step Toyota is taking to help fight climate change. The company is also working toward achieving its Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050. These steps include conserving water, reducing carbon emissions, creating a sustainable supply chain that includes reducing waste, and protecting biodiversity. To meet these goals, the company is currently working to reduce overall water use for each vehicle produced by 3%. It's also working to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from its operations and products. The company recently agreed to purchase power from a wind farm to cut down on its overall carbon footprint. Toyota also wants to reduce how much plastic packaging material it uses by 25%. Additionally, the company is working toward developing a third-party on-site habitat management policy that it will begin implementing in 2022. If you're interested in getting a new electric vehicle, you can expect these latest models from Toyota to hit the market in 2022. In the meantime, you can also head to Toyota of Kingsport to check out the exciting alternative powertrain vehicles that we currently have available. Image via DealerOn

Toyota is working on some big changes to its full-size truck lineup for the 2022 model year. Though it has developed a following, the Tundra has not been much competition for the "Big Three" pickups. However, the battle for America's best-selling pickup may look very different in the next model year. Here's what we know about the 2022 Toyota Tundra so far. more Completely Redesigned One of the reasons the 2022 model year is such an exciting one for the Tundra is that the truck will be getting a complete refresh and redesign. You can expect to see a new look, a new list of features, and probably a boost in power levels like the Tundra has never seen. The last time the Toyota Tundra saw a redesign was in 2007, which made it into the fan-favorite it is today. The 2022 redesign may take that popularity to the next level. Spy shots of the Tundra prototype have shown that the truck will likely see a bigger grille that's reminiscent of the Tacoma TRD Pro's. The test-Tundra also featured two-post trailering side mirrors that would be a first for the truck if they make it to final production. Next-Level Power The chairman of the Toyota National Dealer Advisory Council, Robby Findlay, told Automotive News in February of 2021 that the Tundra is going to be a "world-beater," full of best-in-class features and power levels. Toyota is upgrading the Tundra to take on the trucks that have dominated the American charts for decades. Once the 2022 model year rolls around, those trucks may have to step up to keep up with the new Tundra. The new Tundra generation will have a new chassis called the Toyota New Global Architecture-F. Toyota says this new truck chassis will feature body-on-frame underpinnings. The increase in high-strength steel and lowered vehicle weight may increase the amount of hard work the Tundra will be able to perform. It's also rumored that the Tundra will be dropping its V-8 engine options for 2022 to offer just V-6 engines. Though at first glance this might seem like a downgrade, there are some recent turbocharged V-6 options out there that are outperforming some V-8 engines. When Can We Have It? Toyota has been pretty quiet about the 2022 Tundra as of February of 2021. We may be able to see a full sheet of specs sometime in the fall or late summer at the earliest. The 2022 Tundra is set to be released in December of 2022. Though no official timeline has been released as of yet, we should be getting some teasers and information about this all-new Tundra as the 2021 model year goes on. For now, the already impressive 2021 Tundra will have to keep us occupied and entertained. Our team at Toyota of Kingsport will keep you updated with news about the 2022 Toyota Tundra. For now, all we can do is wait. But when this game-changing truck is finally released, reach out to us for your chance to see it for yourself. Image via DealerOn

Finding an interesting learning experience near Kingsport, Tennessee, is easy thanks to the many museums and historical sites in the area. Whether you're a life-long learner or you want to show a slice of history to your family, these fascinating museums in the area should do the trick. more Birthplace of Country Music Museum If you're a fan of country music, you can discover your roots at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum over in nearby Bristol. This 24,000-square-foot museum is full of interactive exhibits that walk you through the world of 20th-century country music. The museum is housed in the building where the influential 1927 Bristol Sessions took place, which played an important role in developing the music genre. Gray Fossil Site & Natural History Museum The Gray Fossil Site is an active dig site that allows visitors to get an inside view of not only the world 5 million years ago but also of the archeological process itself. The scientists that work on this site believe that the Gray Fossil Site was created when an underground limestone cave collapsed and created a sinkhole that collected and preserved nearby creatures and plant life. The hands-on learning opportunities this natural history museum is home to make it a unique learning experience. The Netherland Inn and Complex Kingsport's own Netherland Inn was built in the first decade of the 1800s. Now it features museum-quality furnishings and decor to allow visitors to see what the inn looked like in its heyday. In addition to the Netherland Inn, you may also be able to explore an old schoolhouse, a Daniel Boone cabin, an early boatyard that gives a clue into the Netherland's original purpose, and more. Rocky Mount State Historical Site Visiting Rocky Mount State Historical Site is like taking a step back into the past. Discover the Cobb House, which served as the capital for what was the Southwest Territory in the late 1700s. The costumed living history actors make it easy to inspire young visitors to learn about the early history of the nation. During your tour of the 40 acres Rocky Mount sits on, you may be able to see artifacts from the 18th and 19th century, a blacksmith's shop, a beautifully maintained garden, and even a flock of Cotswold sheep. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Nature- and history-lovers alike will love what the Sycamore Shoals State Historic has to offer. Explore the interpretive museum to see displays that take you through the 18th century of Sycamore Shoals. Discover the beginnings of the American Revolution, the birth of Fort Watauga to protect the settlers who took this land for their own, and more. You can easily spend an entire day here if you're up for a hike through the trails that wind through the beautiful natural area around the museum. Choose the museum that most intrigues you or get a crash course into a topic you've never thought about before. Whichever you choose, these Kingsport-area museums are sure to fill your day with fascinating views into the past. Image via Pixabay

Toyota is paving the path to an electrified future with its 2021 hybrid lineup. In this lineup, you'll find several sedans and sizable SUVs to choose from. Here's a quick guide as to what your Toyota hybrid options are in the 2021 model year. more Sedans Your 2021 Toyota hybrid sedan options, in order of most affordable starting MSRP to the most luxurious, are the Corolla, Prius, Camry, and Avalon. The Corolla is the smallest of the four and the Avalon is the most spacious. The Prius' hatchback style makes it a popular choice for drivers who need a little more space than conventional sedans offer. The Camry offers an exciting hybrid driving experience with features such as sport drive modes and an available sport-tuned suspension system. SUVs Your 2021 Toyota hybrid SUV options are the RAV4, Venza, and Highlander, in order of smallest to largest starting MSRP. If you're searching for a hybrid that doesn't put limits on your adventures, opt for a well-equipped RAV4. The RAV4 Hybrid comes standard with an all-wheel-drive system that boosts your traction on slick roads. The new generation of the revived Venza offers a luxurious experience with available features such as heated and ventilated perforated SofTex-trimmed seats. The three-row Highlander offers space for up to eight passengers or seven with the more comfortable captain's chairs for the second row. Each of these SUVs, as well as most Toyota models, come standard with driver-assist technologies to keep you safer on the road. Be sure to choose a model equipped with the blind-spot monitor to make changing lanes stress-free. Minivan Toyota also offers the all-new Sienna hybrid minivan. If you need a rolling home-away-from-home, you may appreciate the Sienna's seating capacity for up to eight passengers. The minivan's trim levels allow you to find a model equipped with the features you're most excited about. Though some larger SUVs offer the same number of seats as this minivan, the Sienna excels in giving your crew space to stretch out and relax. Plug-Ins and Fuel Cells The vehicles above are considered conventional hybrids, which rely on regenerative braking to charge their batteries. The second type of hybrid is the plug-in hybrid, which you may also see described as PHEVs. Toyota offers two of these in its 2021 lineup: the Prius Prime and the RAV4 Prime. Plug-in hybrids can be charged with standard home outlets, professionally installed home charging units, and public fast-charging stations. The 2021 Toyota Mirai sedan is an example of a rarer type of electrified vehicle. It's an all-electric model that runs on hydrogen through what's called a fuel cell system. It has a better city mileage, but its highway mileage falls between the conventional hybrid's and plug-in hybrid models' highway mileage averages. However, it's the only Toyota model that cuts out emissions entirely. When you're ready to explore what your favorite electrified 2021 Toyota Model feels like behind its wheel, visit our team at Toyota of Kingsport to get your test drive. You and your wallet can feel better about going electric thanks to the Toyota 2021 lineup. Image via DealerOn

It's time to reward yourself with a great dessert. If you're lucky enough to be in the Kingsport, Tennessee, area, you have plenty of dessert options to choose from. Here are a few of Toyota of Kingsport's go-to spots to satisfy any sweet tooth. more Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop You can't beat an expertly crafted home-made pie. Make your way to Johnson City to try Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop 's amazing baked goods. This adorable bakery offers their top-notch Granny's Apple pie, a Southern buttermilk custard pie, a summer-perfect key lime pie, and more. Get your slice a la mode to upgrade your dessert to the next level. Marble Slab Creamery Marble Slab Creamery is a national chain that offers some top-notch ice cream. Whether you take yours piled high with toppings in a sundae, mixed in a shake, or you enjoy a simple scoop in a cone or cup, Marble Slab has you covered. Choose between the dozens of options of ice cream flavors, including chocolate banana, birthday cake, caramel macchiato, and butter pecan. You'll also find a great selection of tried-and-true flavors. If you want a dessert spot that will please the kids, Marble Slab Creamery is a good bet. Seaver's Bakery If you're looking for some of the best donuts in the Tri-Cities area, be sure to stop by Seaver's Bakery. Stop by the shop to watch Seaver's tasty glazed donuts go by along a conveyor to make their ways into a box you can take home with you. You'll find plenty of donut options here, whether you're looking for filled, cake, or just a simple delicious glazed yeast donut. Pair your favorite donut with one of the espresso-based drinks or a cup of coffee to round out your experience. Sloopy's Diner Sloopy's Diner gives you a classic burger-and-a-shake experience that will make you feel like you stepped back into the 1960s. Even if you don't dig into the tasty sandwiches this burger joint serves up, you need to try its classic dessert options. Split a banana split with your beau, enjoy a hand-dipped ice cream cone on a hot summer day, or a hot fudge cake during the winter. You can't go wrong with Sloopy's American Friday night diner experience. Sweet Spoon Frozen Treats Head to Kingsport's Fort Henry Mall to visit the go-to spot for cold dessert treats. Sweet Spoon Frozen Treats has 33 flavors of frozen yogurt to choose from, as well as 60 toppings you can customize your dessert with. If you're not in the mood for frozen yogurt, Sweet Spoon also offers a selection of old-fashioned candy, confectioner creations, and more. This local business is one of our top spots to treat ourselves. Whether you're looking for a tasty baked treat or a cold dessert to cool down with on a summer day, Kingsport, Tennessee, has you covered. Trying a sweet dessert from each of these places to find your family's new go-to spot might be hard work, but you just might be the perfect person for the job. Image via Pixabay

For generations, drivers have depended on Toyota to deliver safe and reliable vehicles. Toyota continues to do so with its Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Plus (TSS 2.5+) suite of intelligent safety features. The suite includes all-new safety technologies along with some familiar favorites. Let's explore how the Safety Sense 2.5 Plus suite allows you to drive more confidently. more Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection Like previous versions of the Toyota Safety Sense suite, TSS 2.5+ features a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. In the TSS 2.5+ suite, this feature is enhanced to not only prevent collisions with the vehicle in front of you, but to also help prevent and mitigate collisions when you're making a left-hand turn. The system detects vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists, even in poorly lit environments. The system automatically applies the brakes and also helps you make emergency steering maneuvers. Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control The dynamic radar cruise control is another feature carried over from previous Safety Sense suites. In the TSS 2.5+ suite, the feature can activate at speeds over 30 miles per hour and control the distance between your Toyota and the vehicle in front of you down to 0 mph. If your Toyota has to come to a complete stop, the cruise control is capable of resuming once traffic picks back up. New to the feature is a technology that assists you with passing slower vehicles. If the vehicle in front of you is traveling slower than your preferred cruising speed, all you have to do is engage your turn signal, and the cruise control will accelerate enough to let you safely pass. Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist Another favorite feature is the lane departure alert with lane tracing assist. If your Toyota starts to leave its lane and your turn signal isn't engaged, the feature will apply corrective steering. The system can also detect road edges and warn you when it's time to pull over if you've drifted too many times. Blind-Spot Monitoring With Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Toyota fans will be happy to know that blind-spot monitoring is still included in the newest version of Safety Sense. This feature can detect vehicles when they enter your blind spots, issuing both a visual and an audible warning. The system also monitors traffic when you're driving in reverse, so you know when a vehicle or pedestrian is about to cross your path. Road Sign Assist Using a forward-facing intelligent camera, the road sign assist system can read speed limit signs, stop signs, and other traffic signs. The system displays them on a multi-information display. With this innovative feature, the road ahead holds fewer unpleasant surprises. Automatic High Beams The TSS 2.5+ suite's automatic high beams can detect the headlights and taillights of other vehicles and adjust your Toyota's headlights accordingly. When no other vehicles are nearby, the headlights will give you more light when you need it. You'll enjoy not having to constantly fuss with your high beam settings. As you can see, the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Plus suite offers plenty of features to keep you safe and secure. Test drive a Toyota today and experience the system for yourself. Image via DealerOn

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or you just need to get away from it all, there's no better way to treat yourself than with a spa day. Fortunately, there are several excellent spas in the Kingsport, Tennessee, area. Here are some excellent destinations in and around Kingsport where you can enjoy a relaxing spa day. more The First Lady Day Spa Since 2002, The First Lady Day Spa has been the go-to destination for Kingsport residents in need of some pampering. The spa offers several types of massages, including deep tissue, aromatherapy, and hot stone. For some full-body rejuvenation, try a Moor mud cocoon, French sea salt scrub, or warm algae wrap. If you're in the mood for a new hair-do, The First Lady's salon experts can give you a stunning cut and color. The First Lady Day Spa also offers manicures, facials, and hair removal treatments. The spa's ion cleansing foot detox will leave you feeling energized and ready to face the day. For the full spa day experience, consider one of The First Lady's Pamper Packages. The couples' treatments are a great way to celebrate an anniversary. During your visit, you'll be provided with a robe, sandals, a locker, and shower facilities. Valley Springs Spa With two convenient locations in the Kingsport area, it's easy to enjoy a spa day at Valley Springs Spa. The spa's knowledgeable staff is trained in Swedish, deep tissue, and prenatal massage techniques, among others. During your massage, be sure to try Valley Springs Spa's eco-fins. These muslin sleeves are filled with a warm and aromatic paraffin alternative, moisturizing your skin and relaxing the muscles in your hands and feet. You can also add a peppermint scalp refresher. The spa's skincare treatments include deep cleansing facials, glycolic peels, and microdermabrasion. During your visit, be sure to get a manicure or relaxing shampoo in the salon. For a truly unique experience, book a halotherapy session. As you sit in the spa's salt room, you'll feel renewed and energized. If you're celebrating a special occasion, check out Valley Springs Spa's bridal shower and baby shower packages. The Charlemont The Charlemont is your one-stop shop for all things beauty. Whether you're looking for a treatment that will enhance your look or you want a full makeover, the talented staff at The Charlemont is ready to help. The salon experts can suggest the perfect cut and color for your facial shape and complexion. The manicurists and pedicurists will have your nails looking so good that you won't even recognize them. The Charlemont also offers facials, lash extensions, and brow threading. You can also get your makeup done for weddings and other special events. During your visit, be sure to browse through The Charlemont's boutique, where you'll find the cutest clothing and accessories in Kingsport. After your makeover, you're also welcome to relax by the fireplace with a glass of wine. These are just three of the fantastic locations in and around Kingsport where you can enjoy a spa day. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to enjoy some rest and relaxation. Image via Pixabay

If you're in the market for a new sedan, you can't go wrong with something from the Toyota lineup. Offering the perfect blend of style and performance, all of Toyota's sedans are designed to impress. Let's explore what each model has to offer. more 2021 Corolla For the 2021 model year, Toyota gave the legendary Corolla an exciting makeover, making its signature compact sedan even more sleek and stylish. The Corolla announces its arrival with an aggressive black mesh grille and premium LED lighting. You can choose from several stunning wheel designs in various sizes, and a power tilt/slide moonroof is also available. A new Nightshade Package adds sophisticated blacked-out accents, while the Apex Package gives the Corolla bronze rocker panels. Under the hood, you'll find a 139-horsepower, 1.0-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine that puts out 126 pound-feet of torque. This lively engine teams up with a continuously variable transmission, or you can opt for a manual six-speed system. The Corolla's ergonomically designed cabin features premium seating surfaces and will keep you comfortable on the longest of drives. Intelligent safety features include a pre-collision system and dynamic radar cruise control. 2021 Camry The Corolla isn't the only Toyota sedan to get a makeover. The 2021 Camry also sports a stunning new look. The first thing you'll notice about this iconic midsize sedan is its distinctive intake area showcased by an all-new front fascia. A bold rear spoiler and chrome tip exhaust complete the Camry's race car-inspired look. The Camry's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is capable of generating 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission makes the robust engine more responsive while providing effortless handling. An available torque-control all-wheel-drive system switches to front-wheel drive depending on driving conditions, enabling the Camry to conserve more fuel. You can also add a sport-tuned suspension. The Camry's spacious cabin is filled with amenities like an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Features like road sign assistance and a blind-spot monitor will keep you safe and secure. 2021 Avalon The 2021 Avalon is a luxurious full-size sedan that delivers the type of exhilarating performance that makes you feel like you're in a race car. Features like premium LED lighting, a dark gray and chrome grille, and red-painted brake calipers always make the Avalon stand out in a crowd. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 205 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It teams up with an eight-speed electronically controlled transmission that always delivers a smooth and swift ride. A brand-new all-wheel-drive system is capable of sending up to 50% of the Avalon's torque to the rear wheels, enabling the sedan to adapt quickly to all sorts of tricky driving situations. An available sport-tuned suspension will make every drive a lively one. The Avalon's cabin is a cozy sanctuary thanks to features like Cognac leather seating surfaces, a heated steering wheel, and noise-suppressing technology. A lane departure alert, dynamic radar cruise control, and pre-collision system are just some of the Avalon's many safety features. As you can see, every Toyota sedan has plenty to offer drivers. Take a test drive today and see which one is right for you. Image via DealerOn

If you're in the mood to get out of the house and treat yourself to something nice, consider exploring one of Kingsport's shopping centers. There's something for everyone at these retail meccas. Whether you're looking for the latest fashions, electronics, or home decor, you'll find it. Check out some of the best places to shop in Kingsport. more East Stone Commons East Stone Commons offers the perfect mix of major retailers and restaurants. Fashionistas on a budget will find clothing and accessories at Ross Dress for Less, TJ Maxx, and Rack Room Shoes. Five Below carries unique toys and gifts. If you're into arts and crafts, you have to stop by Hobby Lobby. You'll be impressed by their huge selection of scrapbooking tools, beads, and other crafting materials. Pick up a new toy or tasty treat for Fido at PetSmart. All of that shopping is sure to make you work up an appetite, so be sure to grab lunch or dinner at Olive Garden, Chili's, or McAlister's Deli. Kingsport Pavilion When you need to make a Target run, head to Kingsport Pavilion. This premier shopping center also features Kohl's, Michael's, and Best Buy. If you're looking for the latest best-seller, graphic novel, or board game, drop by Books-A-Million. Maybe you're in the mood to give yourself a makeover. At Ulta Beauty, you'll find all the cosmetics and beauty treatments you need. If it's your house that needs a brand-new look, Lowe's has you covered. For workout gear or your favorite team's merchandise, check out Dick's Sporting Goods. When you need a bite to eat, a sandwich from Zaxby's or Jersey Mike's will really hit the spot. Fort Henry Mall As the only regional mall serving the Kingsport area, Fort Henry Mall is a very popular shopping destination. The mall's many trendy clothing stores include American Eagle Outfitters, rue21, and Urban Market. Find a unique gift for that special someone at Spencer's or I Love Books. If you're into gadgets and games, stop by Cell World, FYE, or Music Masters. Treat yourself to premium fragrances, body washes, and candles at Bath & Body Works. If you're looking for the right vitamins and supplements, the knowledgeable staff at GNC is happy to help. When you're in the mood for something a little more indulgent, stop by Great American Cookies. Fort Henry Mall's other eateries include Charley's Philly Steaks, Italian Village, and Auntie Anne's. Downtown Kingsport In Downtown Kingsport, you'll find some of the city's best locally-owned shops and restaurants. If you're searching for unique clothing and accessories, stop by The Dressy Owl, The Wooden Hanger, or Sassy Lady Gifts. At Bubba's Book swap, you'll stumble across rare and out-of-print books that you won't find anywhere else. Home chefs will want to check out Abingdon Olive Oil Company and KPC Butcher Shop. For the perfect home decor, stop by Appalachian Ironworks and Home Cottage 1771. No trip to Downtown Kingsport is complete without a meal at Barberito's, The Mustard Seed Cafe, or Backwoods Burger Bar. As you can see, Kingsport has a lot to offer when you're in need of a little retail therapy. No matter which shopping destination you visit, you're sure to have fun. Image via Pixabay

The 2021 Toyota Corolla has arrived, and it's better than ever. You'll find several trim levels, each with distinct features that drivers everywhere are loving. From the precision handling and fuel efficiency to the modern style and high-end finishes, there's no end to the options you'll find both inside and out. If you're in the market for your next car, you can sneak a peek at the 2021 Corolla after diving into these top features. more Exterior Design With eight trim levels available, the 2021 Toyota Corolla offers various attention-demanding exterior design features. On the base L trim, you'll find options such as a black grille with a sport mesh insert and bright LED headlights. The special SE Nightshade attention comes with bold blacked-out badging, a black rear spoiler, and 18-inch black-painted aluminum wheels. The uniquely designed SE Apex offers you 18-inch black aluminum wheels, and a modern sport mesh front grille with a bronze and black front spoiler. Lastly, we have the top-of-the-line XSE Apex Edition with a two-tone color and black roof, as well as a power tilt-and-slide moonroof. Power and Performance A combination of both power and performance can be found under the hood. A 1.8-liter engine will deliver up to 126 pound-feet of torque and 139 horsepower while maintaining an impressive fuel economy. There's also an available 2.0-liter engine with dynamic force technology that will get you up to 151 pound-feet of torque and 169 horsepower. These engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission with available six-speed manual transmission on certain trims. Enjoy the available sport mode button to activate simulated shift points and an engine control unit for a thrilling driving experience. You'll also find vehicle stability control, brake assist, and a traction control system. The front-wheel-drive system lets you drive in a variety of weather conditions. Interior Design and Technology The interior of the 2021 Corolla offers the perfect combination of premium comfort and advanced technology. On the base model L, there's a 7-inch touch-screen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. This will allow you to access your contacts, music, and more. Inside the XLE, you notice SofTex-trimmed heated front seats while the XSE gets additional features such as ambient lighting and a wireless charging station. Advanced Driver-Assistance Features Thanks to the standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system, you find an array of advanced driver-assistance features. This includes a lane departure warning alert with steering assist, a full-speed dynamic range radar cruise control system, and lane tracing and road sign assist technology. You'll also find pre-collision assist technology with pedestrian detection. Of course, standard safety features such as the advanced air bag system is also included. If you want to check out the 2021 Toyota Corolla or any other Toyota model for yourself, see us today at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN. We would love to help you answer any questions you have, give you a tour of our showroom,  and even get you set up for a test drive. We hope we see you soon! Image via DealerOn

There are times when that craving for Asian food needs to be satisfied. Whether you're looking for a great moo goo gai pan or a tasty teriyaki beef, you need to know where to find the best in the area. Here's a list of where to grab Asian fare in Kingsport. more Ming Garden Oriental Cuisine & Mongolian Grill Located at 1207 N. Eastman Road is Ming Garden Oriental Cuisine & Mongolian Grill. They offer lunch and dinner menus, an extensive buffet, and a Mongolian grill to satisfy your cravings, all available for dine-in or carry out. Start with egg rolls, fried wontons, or crab rangoon. Try their wonton or egg drop soup, which are both delicious. Ming Garden offers dishes with seafood, chicken, pork, beef, as well as vegetarian options. They also have fried rice, egg foo young, chow Mein or chop suey, and lo Mein available. Their daily buffet includes the Mongolian grill and is offered at both lunch and dinner times. Ming Garden also has lunch specials and house specials, including general Tso's chicken. They are open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Thai Noodle Town Thai Noodle Town is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for dinner, Tuesday through Saturday. Try the pork dumplings or fresh summer rolls for your appetizer, then follow up with the Tom Kha Gai soup. Menu options include fried rice, noodles, curries, and pan-fried items such as spicy eggplant. They also offer several lunch specials, including pad thai and yellow curry fried rice. Another lunch special is the drunken noodles with wide noodles, chili, bamboo shoots, broccoli, green cabbage, bell peppers, and basil, all stir-fried in their homemade sauce. One of the Thai Noodle Town Specials is their rad na, wide noodles with chicken and shrimp, stir-fried and covered in Thai gravy. You can order your next delicious meal through curbside pickup. They are located at 800 Stonegate Road. Stir Fry Cafe Another great restaurant offering Asian, sushi, and Thai options is the Stir Fry Cafe. Find them open for lunch and dinner at 125 Broad Street. Here you can begin with firecracker shrimp or shrimp and pork dumplings. They have a stir fry cobb salad and hot and sour soup for the lighter appetites, along with maki and small plate options. Enjoy their light options of spicy crab roll, cucumber roll, avocado roll, or garden roll. There are over fifteen varieties of sushi, including the red dragon, a spicy crab salad with avocado, tuna, green onions, and a sweet chili sauce. Not in the mood for sushi, then check out their kung pao or sesame chicken options. They also offer stir fry, fried rice, pad Thai noodles, and pan-fried ramen. How about a Mahi Thai fish taco with mahi-mahi, pineapple pico, slaw, and cilantro? For entrees, they have shrimp and grits and teriyaki chicken. And, for those just not into Asian food, they offer burgers and sandwiches. Whether you're visiting the area or looking for your new favorite Asian restaurant, these three are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy! Image via Pixabay