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If you are driving and suddenly hear strange noises coming from your car, don't take any chances by ignoring them. Avoid the potential for accidents or future costly repairs by taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic for a diagnosis. Here are some unusual car noises that warrant attention. Squealing of the Brakes If you hear unusual squealing when you tap the brakes, the likely culprit is worn brake pads that need to be replaced. A metal shim causes the brake pads to make the squealing sound when they wear thin. Another reason for the squealing may be under the hood, indicating that the drive belt may have slipped and needs replacing. Other problems may be weak brake shoe retaining springs, distorted brake shoes, or brake dust. Brake Grinding A grinding noise while braking may signal a more serious problem when the squealing mentioned above was never resolved. If the brakes have reached the grinding stage, this may mean that the brake pads have worn down and critical parts are now wearing down to the rotor. The brakes at this point are experiencing metal-on-metal contact, setting the stage for complete brake failure if the brakes aren't replaced immediately. Banging from the Engine Sounds from the engine such as banging, clunking, or knocking should warrant immediate attention from a mechanic. Reasons for this noise vary from a misfired engine to a defective spark plug to a bad power component. Banging noises may also indicate leaking valves within the engine, as well as a faulty ignition. In either case, it is best to take your vehicle to a mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. Rattling Noises from the Hood When you hear rattling noises coming from your car's hood, it may be connected to your catalytic converter, which helps to reduce emissions. A rattling noise may mean that maintenance or repair is needed. If the problem is not the catalytic converter, the rattling may be coming from the camshaft belt. Either way, failure to repair these problems can result in engine failure. Roaring Noises Any roaring sounds may indicate problems with either the tires or wheel bearings. If the noise comes from the tires, then replacing them should solve the problem. To test whether the noise is coming from the wheel bearings, drive at a regular rate of speed, and switch the steering wheel back and forth as you would when changing lanes. If in fact the wheel bearings are damaged, then it's best to get them repaired before the damage causes the wheels to stop working. Clicking in the Steering Wheel Another common noise is a clicking sound that can sometimes be heard in the steering column. This may mean that CV joint is worn, bearings within the steering column have run low, or power steering fluid levels may be low. While these may seem like minor issues, failure to get them maintained or replaced can result in poor vehicle performance in the future. Car noises that sound abnormal should not be taken lightly and should be properly diagnosed. A trip to your dealership or preferred mechanic can save you big bucks in the long run. Image by Davgood Kirshot from Pixabay

Toyota's SUVs feature the latest technology, safety features, and other options that make it challenging to settle on just one vehicle. Toyota offers some of the top SUVs on the market, especially since all models now come standard with Toyota's Star Safety System to keep occupants safe on the road. Check out the following guide to learn more about Toyota's top SUVs so you can choose the best vehicle that suits the lifestyles of everyone in your family. RAV4 The RAV4 crossover is ideal for families thanks to ample cargo and passenger room. The 2016 RAV4 is available as a hybrid for eco-friendly drivers and offers up to 34 miles per gallon (mpg) on city streets. All RAV4 trims come with new integrated fog lights and LED lighting on headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights to make your drive brighter at any time of day. Standard backup cameras supply a view of what's behind you, while the vehicle's second-row seats fold down to offer up to 73.4 cubic feet for sports equipment and luggage. Land Cruiser As Toyota's first-ever SUV, the Land Cruiser combines reliable off-road capability with luxurious features for up to eight passengers. Equipped with a V8 engine that emits 381 horsepower, the 2016 Land Cruiser comes with ventilated and heated seats to keep occupants comfortable in any weather, and four-zone automatic climate control that allows passengers to control their own environments. The SUV's eight-speed transmission automatically adjusts based on incline, speed, and throttle input, while Toyota's exclusive new Crawl Control feature allows you to steer effectively through difficult terrain, which you can watch from the conveniently located multi-terrain monitor on the dash. 4Runner This mid-size SUV is best known for its off-road capabilities. The suspension for the 2016 release features high-performance shocks and specially tuned springs that drive over the worst of terrain, as well as a quarter-inch aluminum skid plate that protects the front so you can effectively navigate rugged trails without damaging your vehicle. The 4Runner suits drivers who crave a reliable off-road vehicle, since 90 percent of all 4Runners sold in the last 10 years are still driving today. With a four-liter V6 engine that emits 270 horsepower, this SUV tows up to 5,000 pounds so you can bring heavy outdoor equipment to your favorite off-road destination. Highlander Best known for its powerful engine and roomy cabin, the Toyota Highlander seats up to eight people and was named a Top Safety Pick Plus by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2016 Highlander is roomier to accommodate ease of movement and taller passengers and features back seats that fold down to create extra cargo space. The SUV comes standard with a four-cylinder engine that offers 185 horsepower and 25 mpg on highway roads, with the option to upgrade to a V6 engine that generates a whopping 270 horsepower with the same gas mileage. Visit your local Toyota dealership to learn more about your available SUV options. Toyota will outfit you and your family with a compatible vehicle that satisfies your daily and off-road needs.

Toyota is one of the leading manufacturers in vehicle safety that earns awards and high safety ratings year after year from organizations dedicated to keeping drivers safe on the road. All Toyota vehicles come standard with the Star Safety System, which is a suite of six safety systems that protect drivers and occupants in collisions. Check out the following six top Toyota safety features that make up the Star Safety System, and rest assured you and your passengers will be kept safe and protected on the road when driving a Toyota. 1. Traction Control Traction Control reads data from your vehicle's wheel-speed sensors to determine whether a drive wheel is turning faster than the wheel on the opposite side, which indicates loss of traction. Upon detecting slippage, this feature automatically reduces engine power until the wheel that's slipping slows down and regains traction. When reducing engine power doesn't help, the vehicle's braking system slows the wheel by pulsing the brake for that particular wheel. 2. Anti-lock Brake System Toyota's Anti-lock Brake System prevents brakes from locking up and your vehicle from dangerously skidding when you lose control of your vehicle. This feature uses magnetic wheel-speed sensors and a computer to recognize when your vehicle locks up or loses traction, then forces your brakes to pulse until all wheels are rolling at the same speed. 3. Brake Assist Brake Assist detects when you suddenly hit the brakes in an emergency and applies force and extra brake pressure to help you slow down or stop at a faster rate. This feature is helpful at preventing collisions, and can even be activated when the vehicle detects you're stepping on the brakes too lightly. 4. Smart Stop Technology This feature automatically reduces your vehicle's engine power in the event you push down on both the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time, or when the gas pedal becomes jammed and braking fails to work. Smart Stop Technology helps keep occupants safe when it's necessary to bring your Toyota to an immediate stop. 5. Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Part of Toyota's Anti-lock Brake System, this feature redistributes brake force evenly across all wheels to compensate for uneven weight distribution under hard, sudden braking. Electronic Brake-Force Distribution helps you maintain control of your vehicle by reducing brake pressure on wheels supporting the least amount of weight. 6. Vehicle Stability Control When your vehicle starts navigating in the opposite direction in which you're steering, Vehicle Stability Control reduces engine power and pulses the right or left-side brakes so your vehicle returns to steering in the proper direction. The system uses data from the Anti-lock Brake System and steering wheel sensor to determine whether the vehicle is steering properly, then automatically corrects the situation. If vehicle safety is one of your top concerns when purchasing a new vehicle, stop by your local Toyota dealership to learn more about the Star Safety System. Optional safety features available on most Toyota models include pre-collision technology, blind spot monitor, lane departure alert, and more.

Shopping for a used car requires a lot of homework. You want to ensure that you're buying from a reputable dealer and that the model you choose has been properly cared for while it's been in someone else's ownership. Pre-owned Toyota cars are among some of the most popular, dependable options available. If you're in the market for a new-to-you Toyota, here are some things to keep in mind. Understand the Type of Pre-Owned Certification It's always best to buy a certified pre-owned vehicle rather than just any used car because you can be confident that it's been thoroughly inspected, but did you know that there are multiple types of certification processes? A manufacturer-certified vehicle is the best possible option because it undergoes the most rigorous testing. This type of certification is good beyond the dealership, meaning that it will be honored at any Toyota dealership regardless of where you made the purchase. A dealer-certified vehicle is the second-best option, but your protection is limited to the dealership. If you move away from the area where you purchased the vehicle, you're out of luck. Review the Certification Coverage Pre-owned certification will mean little if you aren't familiar with the terms and what it actually means. Every certified pre-owned Toyota is subject to a 160-point inspection process (174 for hybrids) which includes appearance, mechanical, and detailing standards. This process is, of course, carried out by highly skilled and factory-trained technicians. Even the audio and alarm systems are thoroughly tested to ensure they're in optimal working order. Certified pre-owned vehicles also come with other perks. Every certified pre-owned Toyota comes with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report, a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Warranty, a 7-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, and a full year of Roadside Assistance. Know What the Vehicle Is Worth Knowledge is power when it comes to purchasing a pre-owned car. Before signing on the dotted line, research the vehicle you're most interested in buying in order to determine its true market value. It may already be priced fairly, but having this knowledge puts you in a better position to negotiate price, if necessary. Kelley Blue Book is considered the standard for vehicle market values, so keep the website or app handy on your phone when shopping for your next vehicle. Take a Test Drive Test driving a car before you buy it is a must. Don't feel pressured to make a decision. Before and after the test drive, you want to inspect the vehicle from top to bottom and inside and outside the vehicle. During the test drive, consider how comfortable the seat is, how smooth the vehicle drives, where any blind spots are, and how handy the console controls and gauges are placed. Ask the salesperson any questions you think of including what features are included in the car. If you enjoy driving the car during the test drive, you'll continue to enjoy it for years to come. A little homework and mindful observation can go a long way in purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. Shop certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles to ensure you're getting the highest quality car possible.

Kingsport is surrounded by beautiful wildlife and historic landmarks, which make for exhilarating road trips when you're aching to leave town. When combined with old-fashioned Southern hospitality, these Tennessee destinations guarantee fun for your friends and the entire family. Ready to venture on a quick weekend getaway or weeklong adventure? Follow one of the routes below to explore unique wonders located throughout the state of Tennessee. 1. The Lost Sea Adventure Located at Craighead Caverns in Sweetwater, The Lost Sea is the world's second largest underground lake. To get to The Lost Sea from Kingsport, follow Highway 11W S. to TN-68 S. in Monroe County, then take exit 60 and follow TN-68 S. to Lost Sea Road. Tour Craighead Caverns to learn more about its history, which dates back to the time of the Cherokee Indians. At the bottom of the cave, board a glass-bottom boat to tour the wondrous Lost Sea. Then, venture over to Old Sweetwater Village to explore log cabins that house a General Store, the Cavern Kitchen Cafe, ice cream parlor, and gift shop. 2. Fall Creek Falls Known as one of the most breathtaking scenic locations in Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls is the state's largest and most visited state park. From Kingsport, drive two hours and 40 minutes along Highway 11W S. to TN-101 S. in Crossville, then take exit 322 from I-40 W. Continue on TN-101 S. Drive for 45 minutes to TN-284 W. in Van Buren County. Fall Creek Falls is at 10821 Park Road in Spencer. Standing tall at 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls features countless streams, gorges, and cascades. Book a room at the local inn for a panoramic view of the falls, or stay in one of 30 cabins that accommodate up to 10 people. During your stay, explore up to 34 miles of trails that surround the falls. 3. Downtown Franklin Established in 1799, downtown Franklin combines rich history with modern establishments that offer something for everyone who visits this quaint, charming town. Take Highway 11W S. from Kingsport to I-40 W. in Knoxville. Then, follow I-40 W. to Franklin and take exit 65 from I-65 S. Continue driving on Murfreesboro Road until you reach downtown Franklin. Take a Civil War, history, or ghost tour, explore the town's 60 shops in historic buildings, and grab a bite to eat at one of over 25 restaurants. 4. Arrington Vineyards Located in the beautiful hills of Tennessee wine country, Arrington Vineyards offers wine tasting along with gourmet chocolates, cheeses, and sausages you can eat from one of several outdoor picnic tables that overlook the vineyard's 75 acres. From Kingsport, take Highway 11W S. from Kingsport to I-40 W. in Knoxville. Then, follow I-40 W. and TN-840 W. to US-31 ALT S. in Williamson County. Take exit 42 from TN-840 W, then follow Patton Road until you reach the vineyards. Take advantage of your time in Tennessee to explore the state's many scenic roads and attractions. When stopping for gas, ask the locals to direct you to their favorite landmarks to make the most of your road trip. Image by SALVATORE MONETTI from Pixabay

DealerRater recently awarded select dealerships with the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award. This is the second year that DealerRater has given out the awards recognizing car dealerships in the United States and Canada who have achieved high review scores from online reviewers. This year, we were fortunate enough to be recognized as one of the top car dealers in the country and were awarded the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award. How we won the award Every member of Toyota of Kingsport has worked tirelessly to deserve this honor. We’ve made it our mission to put serving our customers above all else and this award proves that it pays off! The sales, service, and finance teams at Toyota of Kingsport strive to provide the best car-buying experience in Kingsport and the surrounding Tennessee area, and our customers come back over and over again with positive things to say. Winning the 2016 Consumer Satisfaction Award from DealerRater is a tremendous honor and we’re thrilled for our sister store. Consumer Satisfaction is right at your fingertips To start your award-winning car dealership experience, visit Toyota of Kingsport to see all of the amazing new and used cars we have in stock. We couldn’t be more humbled by our success and we want everyone to come to us if they’re in the market for a Toyota!

East Tennessee is home to some of the country's most beautiful scenery, so you don't have to drive far to enjoy a scenic state park. Whether you're planning an afternoon drive or a weekend getaway, here are some destinations you'll want to consider: Roan Mountain State Park Located just an hour from Kingsport on Highway 143, Roan Mountain State Park encompasses more than 2,000 acres around the majestic Roan Mountain. While it makes an ideal day trip, if you'd rather spend the night, the park offers camping sites and multiple cabins with rocking chair front porches and wood-burning stoves. Fishing is the park's most popular activity, and the trout are regularly stocked. You also won't want to miss the park's 12 miles of hiking trails. Fall Creek Falls State Park At more than three hours away, this one is more of a weekend getaway than a quick day trip, but it's well worth the extra mileage. Fall Creek Falls State Park is the state's largest and most visited park. Sprawling more than 26,000 acres, its landscape is laced with gorges, lush hardwood timber, streams, and white cascades. At 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls itself is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States, but there are plenty of other waterfalls to see on a Fall Creek Falls excursion. Learn about the area at the hands-on Nature Center, play a round at the 18-hole golf course, go rock climbing, zip line, or fish for largemouth bass. Paris Landing State Park Another one worth an extended trip, Paris Landing State Park is located about six hours from Kingsport near the town of Buchanan. This park boasts a diverse and varied landscape with affordable lodging accommodations and family-friendly activities that encourage visitors to come back year after year. There's no access fee to enjoy the park, and once you're in, you can enjoy a wide range of activities that include geocaching, biking, birding, hiking, swimming, fishing, and even disc golf. Unique vacation packages are also available, and they include educational waterfall tours, interpretive programs, meals, transportation, and accommodations. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park This popular park is a little bit closer to home. Located in Limestone less than an hour from Kingsport, Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park is dedicated to the soldier, pioneer, industrialist, politician, and famous Tennessean that was born here in 1786. The 105-acre historic park is a beautifully maintained memorial to Davy Crockett that features a visitor center, replica cabin, picnic pavilions, and 88 campsites. If you're interested in fishing, the Nolichucky River provides opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and redeye. There are also a variety of easy and moderate hiking trails that provide stunning views of the local flora and wildlife. In addition to the state park, you can also visit the Crockett Tavern Museum in nearby Morristown as well as the Cherokee National Forest. Tennessee certainly has a lot to offer when it comes to natural beauty, so plan on visiting one of these state parks on your family's next outing. Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

Sport utility vehicles have taken the automotive market by storm. With Toyota leading the way in American sales, it's a no-brainer that Toyota SUVs are crushing the competition with state-of-the-art features and advanced options. If you're looking to buy a new SUV or crossover, be sure to consider one of these 2016 models: 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner has a long history of being the brand's go-to off-roading SUV, and now the 2016 version looks even more rugged and ready for the unbeaten path than ever. Unlike some competitor SUVs, the 4Runner is a midsize body-on-frame vehicle built to be durable and more capable than any rival. The latest model boasts an upgraded base audio system, an enhanced towing capacity, and cell phone navigation integration. Even better, a rearview camera is standard even on the base model, so you know you're getting ample features for the money. Highlander Available as both a traditional and hybrid vehicle, the 2016 Highlander provides easy third-row access, a flexible second row, and a roomy interior that combine to make it a great alternative to a minivan. You'll love the wide range of available powertrains and the handsome, versatile styling. The Highlander provides an unexpected car-like feel that's quite removed from the truck-like performance of the 4Runner, which is a great option for families who don't need to squeeze in a little off-roading time. You can also choose from a slew of options that include a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and more. RAV4 If you're in the market for a compact SUV, look no further than the 2016 RAV4. Also available in a hybrid option, the RAV4 boasts brand-new electronic safety systems that have helped it earn a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Optional safety features include automatic pre-collision braking, a forward collision warning, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and a pedestrian pre-collision system. It may not be the sportiest SUV on the market, but it sure is sleek and boasts a responsive drive quality that's unmatched by competitors. Sequoia In the full-size SUV market, nothing outperforms like the 2016 Sequoia. Sure, it's a massive, thirsty SUV with old-school charm, but it also excels at towing and hauling around the biggest of families. Cabin features feel like high-end full-size pickup appointments, and the second- and third-row seatbacks can be folded down to create a flat cargo floor. The new Sequoia also handles better and rides smoother than ever. If you're not hauling any cargo, this SUV can go from zero to 60 in just 6.7 seconds, which is better than other vehicles of its size. Simply put, when you need a big, bulky SUV designed to tow and haul the kids to school, you'd be hard-pressed to beat the Toyota Sequoia. Choosing your favorite SUV will ultimately come down to your must-have features and style aesthetics, but Toyota gives you more options to choose from than most automakers. Take one for a test drive today and see which one you prefer. Image via Pixabay

When you want to plan a relaxing getaway, there's nothing quite like visiting a small town. Tennessee is brimming with these small, charming places that embody Southern hospitality and put other locales to shame, so be sure to add one of these to your travel itinerary: Kingsport Another small city, but one that's larger than Dayton, Kingsport is part of the Mountain Empire that spans Southwest Virginia and the mountain counties of East Tennessee. Kingsport itself is idyllic and historic with easy access to state parks, spas, antique shops, smokehouses, and family-friendly events that include a popular hot air balloon festival. When you're looking for a small-town feel with city amenities, Kingsport is the place to be. Dayton Located in Rhea County between Chattanooga and Knoxville, Dayton is a picturesque small city oozing with charm. If you're familiar with the name, it's probably because you've heard of Dayton, Tennessee, being the location of the famous Scopes Trial in 1925, which is the town's main claim to fame. Dayton offers countless parks and recreational fields for its size, and the nightlife is an unexpected bonus with its exceptional restaurants and live music scene. Townsend Townsend tends to be overshadowed by the popularity of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, but it's a peaceful little town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that should be at the top of your list of places to visit. There isn't much here but ample opportunity for peace and relaxation, but that's part of its appeal. Drive around the loop at Cades Cove, check out the Tuckaleechee Caverns, or visit the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center. You can bet your weekend will be packed with nothing but the natural beauty and quiet of the mountain region. Jonesborough This quaint little town is perfect for those who love Southern history. Jonesborough is home to more than 5,000 people, but it's retained its historic charm in ways few towns in America have. Jonesborough's claim to fame is that it's the oldest city in Tennessee, even older than the state itself, so you can expect to encounter a lot of historical significance during your visit. Walk through the Chester Inn Museum, visit the International Storytelling Center, go antiquing, pop into one of the art galleries, or simply stroll along the picturesque streets. Bell Buckle The smallest on our list, Bell Buckle is home to just over 500 residents. It's a close-knit art lovers' community that will make you feel as if you've stepped back in time. As it stands today, this tiny town is a preserved and restored railroad village featuring Victorian homes, farmland, and horse country that is known for its handmade crafts, country music, quilts, antiques, and Southern hospitality. You also can't beat the home cooking. Thousands of visitors are drawn to Bell Buckle each year for its annual festivals, though the town is a great place to visit any time of year. Give yourself a chance to breathe again. Get away from the daily grind and plan a trip to one of these laid-back Tennessee towns. Image by Paul Brennan from Pixabay

Owning a car is a necessity for most Americans, but the daily commute can really do a number on the best-kept vehicle. If you've been putting off trading in your old car for a new one, you may just be holding off the inevitable. Here are some signs that it's time to upgrade: Repairs are Costing More Than the Car is Worth Maintenance and repair costs are part of the responsibility of owning a vehicle, but when those costs exceed the car's value, you've got a real problem on your hands. Older cars will get to a point where they require costlier repair jobs, so you end up sinking your money into an endless pit. Instead of wasting your money, why not invest some of it into the down payment on a new vehicle? Your Car is No Longer Safe Older cars are more susceptible to breakdowns and malfunctions. Even the best cars on the market today will one day pose issues as they age – it's just the nature of automobiles. If your old car is no longer reliable or it poses a safety hazard to you or your family, it's time to buy a new one. You'll know if its safety is compromised when it inexplicably slows down on the highway, has trouble starting, or the engine has a tendency to shut off when you come to a stop. It No Longer Suits Your Lifestyle Cars that once suited us a decade ago may not fit our current lifestyle. Families grow, needs change, gas prices go up, and that once-favorite vehicle now seems more of a burden. Ask yourself what type of vehicle would best suit your daily commute, lifestyle, and family size. If your current car doesn't cut it, it's time to trade it in. You're Paying Too Much for Gas This one is a common complaint of drivers who own older vehicles. Modern cars boast fuel-efficient designs that optimize the amount of gas you put into them, so you get more for your money. If you've got a gas guzzler on your hands and want to take advantage of new engine advancements, now's the time. Your Car No Longer Qualifies for Safety-Related Insurance Discounts Older vehicles do come with the perks of requiring less insurance. On the other hand, outdated cars don't qualify for safety-related discounts. Thanks to their state-of-the-art safety features, new cars do, so you have to ask yourself which trade-off you'd prefer to make. Most people would rather be in a safer vehicle. You're Craving a Change Sometimes the best reason to buy a new car is simply that you're ready for something different. There's no need to hang on to an outdated vehicle if you'd rather be in something more updated with the latest design aesthetics and safety features. A new car can signify a new start, so why put it off when you can make the switch today? It can be difficult to part with a beloved old car, but when you find one that suits your current lifestyle, you'll wonder why it took you so long to make the switch. Image via Pixabay

Shopping around for a fuel-efficient vehicle is a smart choice. With gas prices in a constant state of flux, you never know when they're going to shoot through the roof and make it difficult to afford filling up at the pump. Thanks to Toyota's innovative technologies, the automaker is offering an impressive lineup of fuel-efficient cars that make life a little easier on your wallet. 1. 2016 Toyota Corolla America's favorite car, the Corolla has a longstanding tradition of quality and value. Thanks to recent updates, the 2016 incarnation of this sporty sedan boasts a max estimate of 42 miles to the gallon on the highway. That's an impressive feat for a car of this size and style! Even the city estimate is great at 30 miles per gallon, making the Corolla the perfect car for the daily commute. The Corolla starts at just $17,230 and features user-friendly controls, generous legroom, and an impressive list of standard equipment that make it a worthwhile investment. 2. 2016 Toyota Yaris The compact hatchback of the lineup, the 2016 Yaris is the perfect size for urban driving. Its 1.5-liter four-cylinder automatic gets an impressive 33 miles per gallon in the city and 42 on the highway, which translates to a combined mpg of 37. The car is also affordable, starting at just $14,845. The 2016 Yaris is available as a three- or five-door hatchback that features Toyota's Entune infotainment system, available five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, snappy styling, and an updated interior. When you need a small car that offers a little something of everything, the Yaris is a great option. 3. 2015 Toyota Prius Debuting with a base price of $24,200, the 2015 Prius hatchback made a splash with its 48 mpg on the highway and 51 miles per gallon in the city. That's an outstanding 50 miles per gallon combined. The 2015 Prius offers a straightforward interior with a floating console, standard touchscreen, and optional E-tune system, but it's outfitted with numerous safety features that make it a solid choice for any driver. These include multiple airbags, including a driver knee airbag, rearview camera, traction and stability control, and antilock disc brakes. Other safety features such as Toyota's Safety Connect emergency communications system are optional. 4. 2016 Toyota Prius C If you love the Prius but need something a little more budget-friendly, consider the 2016 Prius C. This sports car boasts 53 miles per gallon in the city and 46 on the highway. A major update from 2015 is Toyota's Safety Sense-C system, which includes lane-departure assist, a low-speed collision system, and automatic high beam assist. This system is available on the Prius C Three Deluxe Moonroof and Safety package, although it comes standard on the Prius C Four trim. There's even an exciting Persona Series that looks custom with its electric lime accents. When you need to purchase the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market, look no further than Toyota's offerings. There's bound to be a high-efficiency vehicle that suits your family's needs. Image by Cristhian Adame from Pixabay

There's a lot to love about East Tennessee, including our off-beat attractions. While there may not seem like much to do in the immediate Kingsport area, locals generally know where to head to find the best, most unusual attractions that would surprise any tourist. If you're ready to visit some of these sites, you'll want to add the following to your itinerary: 1. Titanic Museum Located in Pigeon Forge, the quintessential Tennessean's vacation spot, the RMS Titanic Museum boasts a half-scale model of the Titanic itself, just hanging out on the side of the road with the iceberg. It's an unusual site when you first drive into Pigeon Forge, but the museum holds the claim to fame as being the world's largest Titanic museum attraction. View the Titanic's exclusive jewelry collection, have your photo taken on the ornate staircase, and see haunting special displays like the $1.7 million violin owned by the Titanic's bandmaster. 2. The Evil Dead Cabin Located down the road in Morristown, just past Martin Road, is the deserted film set from the "Evil Dead" movie. The cabin itself was largely destroyed during filming, and what remains today is an eerie ruin. Be warned, though. Visiting this cabin means you're trespassing. It's essentially private property, but that hasn't stopped locals from braving the wooded trail and observing this rural section of Appalachia firsthand. 3. Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum Let's face it: Many gift shops in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are filled with Americana kitsch souvenirs. It's the nature of this highly visited tourist area. What many East Tennessee locals may not realize, however, is that Gatlinburg houses a little-known secret called the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum. This unexpected museum features over 20,000 sets of spice shakers from the 1500s to today, and it's the only one of its kind according to the owners. To get there, take the East Parkway from the Gatlinburg Visitor Center, and it's near the Flapjacks Pancake Cabin. 4. Lost Cove Settlement Located along the Nolichucky River between Tennessee and North Carolina, Lost Cove is a ghost town that was abandoned after the railroad left. It was first settled by moonshiners in the early 1900s, and at its height during the town's timber production, Lost Cove was home to about 100 people. The last family left in 1957 after state legislation stalled on building a road into the town. Now, only a few buildings are still standing. Getting to the Lost Cove Settlement is a bit tricky, and you can only hike in, but there are several entry points. Kingsport residents should drive to Uncle Johnny's Hostel and Outfitters in Erwin, then hit the trail from there. 5. Natural Tunnel State Park Although located in Virginia instead of Tennessee, the Natural Tunnel is worth a mention because it's just 30 minutes northwest of Kingsport. The park features a naturally formed cave that is so large that it's used as a railroad tunnel. Getting down to the tunnel requires a hike or riding a chairlift, which makes for some great scenery as well. Unusual attractions abound in our neck of the woods, so get out there and explore! Image via Pixabay