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Tires are one of your vehicle's most essential components. Depending on the amount and kind of driving you do, most motorists must replace their tires every three to four years. Head to your local tire shop, and you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the different brands, treads, and sizes, making it a difficult choice to select the best option for your car or truck. We'll steer you in the right direction with these three top tips for choosing new tires. Determine the Size The best place to look for the correct size tire for your vehicle is the owner's manual or consult the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. Among other information, your exact tire size is listed here. The number will look similar to this: 225/50R16 92V. The first part of the label refers to the tire's width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter. The "92" indicates the tire's load index or how much weight each tire can carry. The last component, the "V" is the maximum speed rating in relation to the load index. What Type of Tires Do You Need? Many retailers offer the perfect size tire for your vehicle. However, you'll need to dig a little deeper to determine what type of tire you need. The kind of tire depends on a variety of factors, including the weather, what kind of vehicle you drive, and how you plan to use your car. To help you pick the ideal tire type, look at some standard options such as all-season tires. This choice is available in both S- and T-speed ratings and are best for all-weather grip and high mileage, making them a common choice for most cars and SUVs. more Also, consider performance tires with H- and V-speed ratings. They offer better grip when cornering than the all-season tire, but may not last as long. If you're looking to outfit a sports car or performance sedan with a new set of rubber, try ultra-high-performance tires with either ZR-, W-, or Y-speed ratings. A winter tire is easily identified by its unique tread. These tires feature slits called “sipes” and may have a mountain or snowflake symbol printed on their sidewall. For best performance on snow and ice, buy winter tires in sets of four. Do you drive an SUV or truck with off-roading capability? Then head over to the all-terrain tires. This option naturally comes in large sizes and is designed for hauling and towing duties with an aggressive tread pattern to aid in traction. What Are Your Priorities? Everyone has different priorities when stepping into a new tire showroom. Are you looking for an economical tire or one fabricated to last 10 years or more? Do you plan to match the brand of tire you got with your new car or are you hoping to increase performance? Whatever you decide, check out your prospective tire's ratings and reviews before they're mounted. Differentiating between dozens of tire choices can be challenging. Do your own research or visit with the experts, and you'll be riding high on new rubber in a jiffy. Image via Flickr by everycar_listed_photos | CC BY-SA 2.0.

Mazda has developed and recently unveiled its G-Vectoring Control Plus System, which becomes the second new-generation vehicle dynamics control technology in Mazda's SKYACTIV-Vehicle Dynamics series. This G-Vectoring Control Plus System will be featured in all Mazda models, beginning with the new-and-improved Mazda CX-5. In this article, we've highlighted the basics of this new system and some of its unique features. What Is the G-Vectoring Control Plus System? Standard G-Vectoring Control reduces engine torque as you turn the vehicle while your foot is still on the gas pedal. Essentially, the G-Vectoring Control System assists the tires in getting a better grip on the road, which enhances and stabilizes the handling of the vehicle. Going beyond the standard G-Vectoring Control System, Mazda has chosen to step things up a notch for 2019 with its launch of the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System. This upgraded G-Vectoring Control Plus System includes all of the features of the original G-Vectoring Control System in addition to some new features. Specifically, the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System utilizes the vehicle's brakes to increase the control of the vehicle's yaw movement. In this context, the yaw movement refers to the vehicle's ability to turn left or right. Unique Features The G-Vectoring Control Plus System includes some innovative features that can only be found in Mazda vehicles. One of these ingenious features occurs when the driver steers the vehicle around a curve and then returns the steering wheel to its natural center position. At this moment, the G-Vectoring Control Plus System employs the brakes to the vehicle's tires, which helps stabilize the vehicle. more The G-Vectoring Control Plus System allows the driver to feel more secure in the vehicle, especially when changing lanes or driving in adverse weather conditions. The G-Vectoring Control Plus also boosts the vehicle's handling in the event of an emergency, such as if the driver must swerve to avoid a collision. Benefits of the G-Vectoring Control Plus System According to Mazda, the G-Vectoring Control Plus System gives the driver a more controlled and calm driving experience, especially when the vehicle is subject to last-minute emergency maneuvers, changing lanes, or when driving in adverse weather conditions. Another benefit of the G-Vectoring Control Plus System is that the driver doesn't have to do much to make the vehicle turn as this new system helps the vehicle perform better in turns, specifically if the vehicle already has all-wheel drive. An exciting benefit of the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System is that Mazda has begun testing it in electric vehicles. The plan is for the G-Vectoring Control Plus System to be utilized in traditional gas vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles. Mazda is clearly looking to the future with the development of this new G-Vectoring Control Plus System. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus System has been designed to improve vehicle handling and performance. Be sure to stop by Bommarito Mazda West in Ellisville, Missouri, to inquire about the new system and to test drive a 2019 Mazda. Image via Flickr by Gonmi | CC BY 2.0.

Mazda has developed and recently unveiled its G-Vectoring Control Plus System, which becomes the second new-generation vehicle dynamics control technology in Mazda's SKYACTIV-Vehicle Dynamics series. This G-Vectoring Control Plus System will be featured in all Mazda models, beginning with the new-and-improved Mazda CX-5. In this article, we've highlighted the basics of this new system and some of its unique features. What Is the G-Vectoring Control Plus System? Standard G-Vectoring Control reduces engine torque as you turn the vehicle while your foot is still on the gas pedal. Essentially, the G-Vectoring Control System assists the tires in getting a better grip on the road, which enhances and stabilizes the handling of the vehicle. Going beyond the standard G-Vectoring Control System, Mazda has chosen to step things up a notch for 2019 with its launch of the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System. This upgraded G-Vectoring Control Plus System includes all of the features of the original G-Vectoring Control System in addition to some new features. Specifically, the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System utilizes the vehicle's brakes to increase the control of the vehicle's yaw movement. In this context, the yaw movement refers to the vehicle's ability to turn left or right. Unique Features The G-Vectoring Control Plus System includes some innovative features that can only be found in Mazda vehicles. One of these ingenious features occurs when the driver steers the vehicle around a curve and then returns the steering wheel to its natural center position. At this moment, the G-Vectoring Control Plus System employs the brakes to the vehicle's tires, which helps stabilize the vehicle. more The G-Vectoring Control Plus System allows the driver to feel more secure in the vehicle, especially when changing lanes or driving in adverse weather conditions. The G-Vectoring Control Plus also boosts the vehicle's handling in the event of an emergency, such as if the driver must swerve to avoid a collision. Benefits of the G-Vectoring Control Plus System According to Mazda, the G-Vectoring Control Plus System gives the driver a more controlled and calm driving experience, especially when the vehicle is subject to last-minute emergency maneuvers, changing lanes, or when driving in adverse weather conditions. Another benefit of the G-Vectoring Control Plus System is that the driver doesn't have to do much to make the vehicle turn as this new system helps the vehicle perform better in turns, specifically if the vehicle already has all-wheel drive. An exciting benefit of the new G-Vectoring Control Plus System is that Mazda has begun testing it in electric vehicles. The plan is for the G-Vectoring Control Plus System to be utilized in traditional gas vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles. Mazda is clearly looking to the future with the development of this new G-Vectoring Control Plus System. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus System has been designed to improve vehicle handling and performance. Be sure to stop by Bommarito Mazda West in Ellisville, Missouri, to inquire about the new system and to test drive a 2019 Mazda. Image via Flickr by Gonmi | CC BY 2.0.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Harsh weather can do a number on your vehicle's paint job. Snow and ice and all that scraping are just as rough on your car as they are on you, dulling its shine and making it susceptible to rust. Give your car what it needs to weather the winter storm. Try these four strategies for protecting your car's finish during the next cold season. Keep It Clean During the winter months, dirt and road salt accumulates on your car's painting finish and can wreak havoc on its appearance. Not only is worn paint unattractive, but it will also reduce your vehicle's value if you ever decide to sell it or trade it in. Take your wheels through the car wash or use a pressure washer to blast away grime. Rinse well and remember to use a microfiber towel to dry it thoroughly. You don't want the water to freeze on your finish. Pay close attention to the lower parts of your vehicle, such as behind the wheels and under the quarter panels. Ice, snow, and salt tend to build up and stick in these areas. To keep your vehicle protected all winter long, make sure to wash your car before the cold weather hits. Apply Wax or a Finishing Polish Don't forget about the importance of wax during the winter months. Sure, wax protects a vehicle's paint job during summer's heat, but keeping it polished all year will ensure it always looks its best. Adding a fresh coat of wax before the snow starts falling lays down a layer of protection during the cold months. This sheen helps protect your car's paint, creating a shield against road salt and grime. more As tempting as it may be to start with the wax, remember to follow step one first. Otherwise, all you're doing is waxing over the dirt, causing micro-scratches in your paint job. Those scratches will lead to corrosive damage over time. Go the Extra Mile With a Quick Detailer To get your car through the winter months with its paint intact, consider going the extra mile with a quick detailer. This versatile liquid spray is the ideal complement to polymer wax and provides car-fanatic level paint protection. Detailers are easy to use and deliver that glossy finish we all love. Put Your Car in Storage Consider storing your car inside during the winter months. Your garage or carport may be filled to the rafters with storage, so take a weekend to make room for your vehicle before the snow flies. If you don't plan on driving it often, invest in a fleece-lined car cover. This added tier of defense will keep your paint job in pristine condition. Winterizing your car is an essential step in the overall maintenance process. Providing additional protection for your vehicle during winter's harsh conditions is vital to maintaining its finish. Protect your car's resale value with these tips. Don't wait until the first freeze. Start winterizing your car or truck today. Image via Flickr by Jim Bauer | CC BY-ND 2.0.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Harsh weather can do a number on your vehicle's paint job. Snow and ice and all that scraping are just as rough on your car as they are on you, dulling its shine and making it susceptible to rust. Give your car what it needs to weather the winter storm. Try these four strategies for protecting your car's finish during the next cold season. Keep It Clean During the winter months, dirt and road salt accumulates on your car's painting finish and can wreak havoc on its appearance. Not only is worn paint unattractive, but it will also reduce your vehicle's value if you ever decide to sell it or trade it in. Take your wheels through the car wash or use a pressure washer to blast away grime. Rinse well and remember to use a microfiber towel to dry it thoroughly. You don't want the water to freeze on your finish. Pay close attention to the lower parts of your vehicle, such as behind the wheels and under the quarter panels. Ice, snow, and salt tend to build up and stick in these areas. To keep your vehicle protected all winter long, make sure to wash your car before the cold weather hits. Apply Wax or a Finishing Polish Don't forget about the importance of wax during the winter months. Sure, wax protects a vehicle's paint job during summer's heat, but keeping it polished all year will ensure it always looks its best. Adding a fresh coat of wax before the snow starts falling lays down a layer of protection during the cold months. This sheen helps protect your car's paint, creating a shield against road salt and grime. more As tempting as it may be to start with the wax, remember to follow step one first. Otherwise, all you're doing is waxing over the dirt, causing micro-scratches in your paint job. Those scratches will lead to corrosive damage over time. Go the Extra Mile With a Quick Detailer To get your car through the winter months with its paint intact, consider going the extra mile with a quick detailer. This versatile liquid spray is the ideal complement to polymer wax and provides car-fanatic level paint protection. Detailers are easy to use and deliver that glossy finish we all love. Put Your Car in Storage Consider storing your car inside during the winter months. Your garage or carport may be filled to the rafters with storage, so take a weekend to make room for your vehicle before the snow flies. If you don't plan on driving it often, invest in a fleece-lined car cover. This added tier of defense will keep your paint job in pristine condition. Winterizing your car is an essential step in the overall maintenance process. Providing additional protection for your vehicle during winter's harsh conditions is vital to maintaining its finish. Protect your car's resale value with these tips. Don't wait until the first freeze. Start winterizing your car or truck today. Image via Flickr by Jim Bauer | CC BY-ND 2.0.

As soon as the first Mazda Miata sportscar was released in 1989, it was clear that there was something different about this roadster. A new style for the time, the Miata was at once a reference to cars from an earlier time while embracing modern, clean lines and an available palette of eye-popping colors. Four generations later, this spritely two-seater still has rock star status for its zippy performance and curvaceous lines. The 2019 MX-5 Miata RF is the newest model to the hit the road, packed with key updates and the desired form-meets-function synergy. Let's explore some of the changes to the newest generation of the Miata. Upgraded Power Once you get the new Miata RF out on the road, you will notice a nice dose of power. As compared to earlier iterations, the 2-liter inline-four engine bumps up to 181 horsepower from the previous engine's 155 horsepower. This extra boost makes a significant difference in the driving experience, whether you're taking twisting mountain roads or cruising on the highway. The additional power also makes the car more forgiving on tight turns and more easily corrects for braking too hard or too early. The Miata's impressive fuel economy is similar to prior models, offering 26 mph in the city and 34 mph on the highway with a six-speed manual transmission. Take the Top Down In case you were wondering what the "RF" stands for, you may be pleasantly surprised when you realize that it indicates a Retractable Fastback roof. This unique style of open top is an interesting choice for the Miata and something that is typically seen on the higher price bracket sportscars. It is a welcome, sophisticated addition to the already clean and elegant lines of the Miata, accompanied by a price tag that far belies its offerings and sleek look. more Once you sit inside, you'll find all of the same upgraded features that you would expect of a car of this caliber like automatic headlights, heated leather-trimmed seats, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. New for this year is an adjustable telescoping steering column that will accommodate drivers of any height and provide them a much more comfortable driving experience. Drivers and passengers will find further interior comfort from available Recaro seats. Safety First New this year, the 2019 MX-5 Miata RF boasts the available I-Activesense Club package. Features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and additional brake support provide additional security and comfort in all sorts of terrain and in all sorts of driving conditions. Enjoy the security of knowing that you are as safe as the technology allows. This package is made available in addition to the Miata's standard safety offerings including front and side airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and a rearview camera that you would expect from a safety pioneer like Mazda. Enjoy the thrill of the open road in a truly exciting and affordable contemporary sports car. Image via MazdaUSA.com.

As soon as the first Mazda Miata sportscar was released in 1989, it was clear that there was something different about this roadster. A new style for the time, the Miata was at once a reference to cars from an earlier time while embracing modern, clean lines and an available palette of eye-popping colors. Four generations later, this spritely two-seater still has rock star status for its zippy performance and curvaceous lines. The 2019 MX-5 Miata RF is the newest model to the hit the road, packed with key updates and the desired form-meets-function synergy. Let's explore some of the changes to the newest generation of the Miata. Upgraded Power Once you get the new Miata RF out on the road, you will notice a nice dose of power. As compared to earlier iterations, the 2-liter inline-four engine bumps up to 181 horsepower from the previous engine's 155 horsepower. This extra boost makes a significant difference in the driving experience, whether you're taking twisting mountain roads or cruising on the highway. The additional power also makes the car more forgiving on tight turns and more easily corrects for braking too hard or too early. The Miata's impressive fuel economy is similar to prior models, offering 26 mph in the city and 34 mph on the highway with a six-speed manual transmission. Take the Top Down In case you were wondering what the "RF" stands for, you may be pleasantly surprised when you realize that it indicates a Retractable Fastback roof. This unique style of open top is an interesting choice for the Miata and something that is typically seen on the higher price bracket sportscars. It is a welcome, sophisticated addition to the already clean and elegant lines of the Miata, accompanied by a price tag that far belies its offerings and sleek look. more Once you sit inside, you'll find all of the same upgraded features that you would expect of a car of this caliber like automatic headlights, heated leather-trimmed seats, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. New for this year is an adjustable telescoping steering column that will accommodate drivers of any height and provide them a much more comfortable driving experience. Drivers and passengers will find further interior comfort from available Recaro seats. Safety First New this year, the 2019 MX-5 Miata RF boasts the available I-Activesense Club package. Features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and additional brake support provide additional security and comfort in all sorts of terrain and in all sorts of driving conditions. Enjoy the security of knowing that you are as safe as the technology allows. This package is made available in addition to the Miata's standard safety offerings including front and side airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and a rearview camera that you would expect from a safety pioneer like Mazda. Enjoy the thrill of the open road in a truly exciting and affordable contemporary sports car. Image via MazdaUSA.com.

St. Louis is one of the biggest cities in America, and even if you limit yourself to the neighborhoods within the city limits, you can find plenty of vibrant, exciting places to live. The downtown district by the Mississippi River has great retail stores and old restaurants, and the suburban west end has plenty of clean, quiet neighborhoods where you can choose from hundreds of lovely homes and apartment buildings. The city's neighborhoods have unique shops and small boutiques, so if you're thinking of moving to St. Louis, here are a few neighborhoods to consider. Hi-Pointe Hi-Pointe is a neighborhood just southwest of Forest Park, and it covers the area from Oakland Avenue to Dale Avenue and from Louisville Avenue up to the city's border with Richmond Heights. It's a mostly residential neighborhood with single-family homes, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area. You won't have trouble finding things to do as a family, either, since the St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis Art Museum are in the nearby park. Wydown-Skinker Wydown-Skinker is another neighborhood at the west end of the city. It's just north of Hi-Pointe and it covers the sliver of land between Forest Park and the suburb of Clayton. It's just as residential as Hi-Pointe and is just as close to the Forest Park's attractions, but the north end is only a block away from Washington University. Thanks to its proximity to the college, residents of this neighborhood are mostly young people, so there are plenty of cafes and bars in the area. more Skinker DeBaliviere Skinker DeBaliviere is adjacent to Wydown-Skinker between Delmar Boulevard, DeBaliviere Avenue, Forest Park, and the city limits. This neighborhood is also close to Forest Park and Washington University, but it has a few more apartment complexes for residents who don't need the space a single-family home offers. You can also find plenty of businesses along Delmar Boulevard at the north end of the neighborhood. Benton Park Benton Park is on the east side of the city and is one of the oldest neighborhoods in St. Louis. You can find it between Gravois Avenue, I-55, Cherokee Street, and Jefferson Avenue. Benton Park was a popular location for breweries back in the day thanks to its natural underground caves ideal for storing beer. Today, the Anheuser-Busch brewery is located just across the street. For a more local flavor, Bluewood Brewing is in the south end of the neighborhood. Benton Park also includes plenty of places to eat, like Gus' Pretzel Shop, a bakery that has been open since 1920. There are plenty of other great neighborhoods in St. Louis in addition to the ones listed here. Across St. Louis, you'll find lovely places to live. Deciding which neighborhood is best for you depends on your housing needs and where you work or go to school. In any case, one of these neighborhoods is sure to be perfect for you and your family. Image via Flickr by Christian Collins | CC BY-SA 2.0.

St. Louis is one of the biggest cities in America, and even if you limit yourself to the neighborhoods within the city limits, you can find plenty of vibrant, exciting places to live. The downtown district by the Mississippi River has great retail stores and old restaurants, and the suburban west end has plenty of clean, quiet neighborhoods where you can choose from hundreds of lovely homes and apartment buildings. The city's neighborhoods have unique shops and small boutiques, so if you're thinking of moving to St. Louis, here are a few neighborhoods to consider. Hi-Pointe Hi-Pointe is a neighborhood just southwest of Forest Park, and it covers the area from Oakland Avenue to Dale Avenue and from Louisville Avenue up to the city's border with Richmond Heights. It's a mostly residential neighborhood with single-family homes, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area. You won't have trouble finding things to do as a family, either, since the St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis Art Museum are in the nearby park. Wydown-Skinker Wydown-Skinker is another neighborhood at the west end of the city. It's just north of Hi-Pointe and it covers the sliver of land between Forest Park and the suburb of Clayton. It's just as residential as Hi-Pointe and is just as close to the Forest Park's attractions, but the north end is only a block away from Washington University. Thanks to its proximity to the college, residents of this neighborhood are mostly young people, so there are plenty of cafes and bars in the area. more Skinker DeBaliviere Skinker DeBaliviere is adjacent to Wydown-Skinker between Delmar Boulevard, DeBaliviere Avenue, Forest Park, and the city limits. This neighborhood is also close to Forest Park and Washington University, but it has a few more apartment complexes for residents who don't need the space a single-family home offers. You can also find plenty of businesses along Delmar Boulevard at the north end of the neighborhood. Benton Park Benton Park is on the east side of the city and is one of the oldest neighborhoods in St. Louis. You can find it between Gravois Avenue, I-55, Cherokee Street, and Jefferson Avenue. Benton Park was a popular location for breweries back in the day thanks to its natural underground caves ideal for storing beer. Today, the Anheuser-Busch brewery is located just across the street. For a more local flavor, Bluewood Brewing is in the south end of the neighborhood. Benton Park also includes plenty of places to eat, like Gus' Pretzel Shop, a bakery that has been open since 1920. There are plenty of other great neighborhoods in St. Louis in addition to the ones listed here. Across St. Louis, you'll find lovely places to live. Deciding which neighborhood is best for you depends on your housing needs and where you work or go to school. In any case, one of these neighborhoods is sure to be perfect for you and your family. Image via Flickr by Christian Collins | CC BY-SA 2.0.

With tighter handling, better performance, and nicer interiors than the average competitor, Mazda's cars and SUVs are a cut above other models. High-tech features are another way Mazda's vehicles stand out. These features include advanced driver assistance features that are blazing the trail towards the future of self-driving cars. Not only will you find the usual rear cross traffic alerts, blind spot monitors, and rearview cameras, Mazda also offers advanced safety features you'd normally only find in the luxury market. The following list includes just a sample of the brand's cutting-edge safety features. Adaptive Front-Lighting System Mazda vehicles come with an adaptive front-lighting system. This feature turns your headlights as you're going around a curve so you can see more of the road in front of you. This is a very important feature for spotting potholes, pedestrians, wild animals, and other obstacles in the dark. AFS can also be outfitted with an additional auto-leveling feature to keep your headlights focused on the road even when the trunk of your car or SUV is packed with heavy cargo. Driver Attention Alert Driving long distances can be tiring. Experts recommend that you take a break every few hours to stretch and get your eyes off the road, but not everyone does so. Many people will drive while drowsy or distracted even though both are dangerous. A Mazda equipped with driver attention alert can learn your driving style, so it can notice when you're tired and tell you it's time for a break. more Advanced Smart City Brake Support When you're driving in the city, this feature scans the road ahead to look for approaching obstacles like stopped cars, cross traffic, and pedestrians. When it sees something in your path, the system alerts you and firms up the brakes to help you stop in a hurry. If you don't react fast enough, the feature will automatically bring your vehicle to a full stop. This feature may be one of Mazda's best. In fact, its advanced smart city brake support was one of the reasons 2019 Mazda CX-5 earned an "Advanced" rating in the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety's new pedestrian crash prevention test. Intelligent Transport Systems True self-driving cars require a full set of sensors and a network of information so cars can share their locations and road obstacles with each other. The required infrastructure isn't available yet, but Mazda has been working on making this technology a reality since 1991. For instance, in 2013 they developed an advanced safety vehicle prototype that demonstrated sensing technology that you still can't find on any car on the market today. Mazda offers a lot more safety features than those on this list. Mazda vehicles can also be equipped with features like adaptive high beams, an advanced all-wheel drive system, hill launch assist, and radar cruise control that automatically maintains a safe following distance. With their fine interiors, excellent handling, and top-notch safety features, Mazda's vehicles are top of their class. Image via MazdaUSA.com.

With tighter handling, better performance, and nicer interiors than the average competitor, Mazda's cars and SUVs are a cut above other models. High-tech features are another way Mazda's vehicles stand out. These features include advanced driver assistance features that are blazing the trail towards the future of self-driving cars. Not only will you find the usual rear cross traffic alerts, blind spot monitors, and rearview cameras, Mazda also offers advanced safety features you'd normally only find in the luxury market. The following list includes just a sample of the brand's cutting-edge safety features. Adaptive Front-Lighting System Mazda vehicles come with an adaptive front-lighting system. This feature turns your headlights as you're going around a curve so you can see more of the road in front of you. This is a very important feature for spotting potholes, pedestrians, wild animals, and other obstacles in the dark. AFS can also be outfitted with an additional auto-leveling feature to keep your headlights focused on the road even when the trunk of your car or SUV is packed with heavy cargo. Driver Attention Alert Driving long distances can be tiring. Experts recommend that you take a break every few hours to stretch and get your eyes off the road, but not everyone does so. Many people will drive while drowsy or distracted even though both are dangerous. A Mazda equipped with driver attention alert can learn your driving style, so it can notice when you're tired and tell you it's time for a break. more Advanced Smart City Brake Support When you're driving in the city, this feature scans the road ahead to look for approaching obstacles like stopped cars, cross traffic, and pedestrians. When it sees something in your path, the system alerts you and firms up the brakes to help you stop in a hurry. If you don't react fast enough, the feature will automatically bring your vehicle to a full stop. This feature may be one of Mazda's best. In fact, its advanced smart city brake support was one of the reasons 2019 Mazda CX-5 earned an "Advanced" rating in the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety's new pedestrian crash prevention test. Intelligent Transport Systems True self-driving cars require a full set of sensors and a network of information so cars can share their locations and road obstacles with each other. The required infrastructure isn't available yet, but Mazda has been working on making this technology a reality since 1991. For instance, in 2013 they developed an advanced safety vehicle prototype that demonstrated sensing technology that you still can't find on any car on the market today. Mazda offers a lot more safety features than those on this list. Mazda vehicles can also be equipped with features like adaptive high beams, an advanced all-wheel drive system, hill launch assist, and radar cruise control that automatically maintains a safe following distance. With their fine interiors, excellent handling, and top-notch safety features, Mazda's vehicles are top of their class. Image via MazdaUSA.com.

Out on the edge of the St. Louis, Missouri, suburbs you'll find Ellisville, a nice place to live with beautiful homes, busy shopping centers, and quiet parks. This small town is far enough from the city center that you can find plenty of good walking trails in the area. Not all of the trails on this list go through town, but those that don't are just a short drive away. Wildwood Greenway The Wildwood Greenway is in Wildwood, Ellisville's western neighbor, and includes over 18 miles of paved biking and walking trails throughout the city. Many of these trails follow the main roads through town, but others head off towards the residential neighborhoods and parks where you can enjoy some peace and quiet. Finding parking is easy since the greenway crosses several parking lots throughout Wildwood. Rock Hollow Trail The Rock Hollow Trail is a relatively short walk, just 2.3 miles, and is all downhill from the trailhead near Ridge Meadows Elementary School. This means it's all uphill on the way back, but there are plenty of benches. The trail is very scenic and quiet, and you'll cross 13 bridges on your way to the trail's end. Once you get there, you'll find the Meramec River and the Al Foster Memorial Trail, a 7-mile trail that follows the river east to west. more Monarch Chesterfield Levee Trail A work in progress, the Monarch Chesterfield Levee Trail will eventually loop around the Chesterfield Airport north of Ellisville. Parts of the trail along Bonhomme Creek and the Missouri River are already done. To reach the trail, you can park at one of the many shopping centers along I-64 or Edison Avenue. Together, the two trail segments are 10.4 miles long, and since the trail passes plenty of stores and restaurants, you'll have no trouble finding a place to take a break. If you're looking for some peace and quiet on your hike, other parts of the trail are nothing but you and nature. Katy Trail State Park The Katy Trail is great if you want to go on a real wilderness hike. The trail covers a converted railroad that follows the Missouri River west for a total of 240 miles until it breaks off and continues toward Kansas City. The trail is on the north side of the river, so the best place to reach it from Ellisville is to take the Daniel Boone Bridge north of Chesterfield. Then, take the first exit after the bridge and head to the Busch Greenway, a short trail that takes you to Katy. There are other trails farther north and south, and you may be surprised by how many nature walks you can find in St. Louis itself. So, if you're a fan of nature or you just want a quiet space where you can relax and clear your head, one of the trails on this list should fit the bill. Lace up those hiking boots! Image via Flickr by Heath Cajandig | CC BY 2.0.