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One of the top features many car shoppers look for is the right amount of cargo space. Some vehicles might have a compact trunk while others offer a versatile cargo area with ample storage. How can you tell how much extra space you actually need? Follow along with Carnamic to find a vehicle with the right amount of cargo space for you. more How is cargo space calculated? Both passenger and cargo space in vehicles is calculated by cubic feet. That area is calculated by multiplying the space’s height by length by width. For vehicles like crossovers, there are usually three interior volume numbers: the total area, the cargo area, and cargo area with seats folded down. Sedans will have a fixed trunk space with one cargo area volume, while minivans have no separate cargo space, but many have a dedicated space for things like groceries and other gear. Finding the Cargo Space You Need So, how do you know how much cargo space you need? The main thing you should consider is the purpose of the cargo space. Are you mainly using your vehicle to pick up groceries and take the kids to school, or are you a DIY expert looking to haul materials? Do you want a versatile cargo area that can be converted to another row of seating or an open space as needed? Is your family big on traveling cross-country with loads of luggage? The answers to these questions can help you narrow down your search. One thing to keep in mind is that the cubic foot measurements won’t necessarily tell you how much floor space you’ll have to haul your gear. For example, a tall vehicle will factor into the cubic foot measurements, while the usable cargo area might be too narrow to fit your suitcase. While you can usually check out the dimensional specs of a vehicle online, you should also consider testing the space out for yourself. Bring a tape measure - or even your suitcase - on a test drive to see how things fit. Make sure that there’s still plenty of legroom in front of the cargo area. If everything about a particular model is ideal except the cargo space, maybe a 60/40 split rear seat will give you the space you need without sacrificing seating. All in all, the amount of cargo space your vehicle needs is different for everyone. If you’re looking to upgrade your cargo space, Carnamic can help. Visit one of our many Bay Area locations to find the right for you and your cargo needs. We can also assist you with accessories, like a cargo space organizer or roof rails, that will give you all the cargo space you’re looking for. Contact us to schedule your test drive today!

Whether you're a long-time resident, new to the area, or just visiting, there’s no doubt that there’s plenty to see and do in the Bay Area. If you’re looking to discover a hidden gem or find a new favorite place to catch lunch, you’ve come to the right place. Carnamic is the Bay Area’s favorite car dealer, and we’ve made a list of our top 5 scenic drives around Redwood City, San Jose, and more! more Panoramic Highway The name alone tells you all you need to know; the Panoramic Highway gives sweeping views of all the beautiful landscape the Bay Area has to offer. Pack a picnic to Stinson Beach before you turn around and take in the views. Skyline Boulevard Get a new perspective on a view you might see during your commute by traveling along Skyline Boulevard. Hit up Route 35 on your off time to check out the views of the Golden Gate Bridge while you’re heading to a state park for a beautiful hike. Highway 1 The legendary Pacific Coast Highway can take you all the way to San Diego, but it’s also a great stretch for a day trip. Lighthouses, stunning beaches (Big Sur!), and Half Moon Bay all await along the coastal highway. You’ll find no shortage of delicious cafes and restaurants to make a pit stop. Silverado Trail Need to escape the city without heading too far from home? Napa Valley’s Silverado Trail is a relatively traffic-free drive in the heart of wine country. Gourmet food, finely crafted wine, and breathtaking views await! Wildcat Canyon Escape the bustling city on your drive through Wildcat Canyon. You’ll feel like you’re watching a movie as you look over the spanning city below. Wildcat Canyon has plenty of those views, and you can do it in the peace and quiet of Tilden Park or Inspiration Point. What’s your favorite place to cruise around in the Bay Area? If you need a new ride to take in the sights and sounds of San Jose or San Leandro, pay us a visit at Carnamic! We have several locations throughout the Bay Area to find you a comfortable new or pre-owned vehicle.

There’s just no beating living in the Bay Area - the sights, the food, and the weather are some of our favorite things. But one thing that can be brutal is the traffic. What looks like a short drive for errands or an easy commute quickly turn into hours of stop-and-go traffic, lines of red lights, packed streets, and tricky hills. Lifelong Bay Area residents and tourists alike can run into the same problems. So when you can’t take public transportation to avoid the stress, what do you do? Follow our top driving tips to navigate the Bay Area like a pro! more Four Tips for Driving in the Bay Area Know Your Route Even those familiar with the streets and hills of the Bay Area know that one wrong turn can end up in confusion, as well as a long detour. Plan your route, check out your destination online, and use navigation with live traffic conditions to avoid traffic jams and construction. Find the Right Vehicle How you drive is just as important as what you drive, and choosing the right vehicle for the Bay Area comes down to a few key points. You can read more about that here, but what it comes down to is picking a vehicle that fits your lifestyle. Live in the heart of the city? Go compact. Have a long commute? Electric or hybrid is the way to go! Practice Parallel Parking Parallel parking can be intimidating if you aren’t used to it. Instead of avoiding your favorite neighborhoods, why not practice? It can take a few tries to master the skill, but once you do, you’ll have a much easier time finding parking. Bonus: you can avoid a hilly walk when you can park near your destination! Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists The Bay Area has miles and miles of bike paths, trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes that offer some of the best ways to enjoy the city. Pedestrians and cyclists are everywhere, so when you’re driving, be sure to pay close attention to your surroundings and be aware of those on foot or two wheels. You might want to find a vehicle with features like pedestrian detection to add an extra layer of safety to your drive. Always yield to pedestrians and read up on bike laws, too. Get Your Bay Area Ride at Carnamic Need help finding the right vehicle to get you around in the Bay Area? Visit us today at one of our Carnamic locations to drive the streets of Redwood City, Hayward, San Leandro, and beyond! Check out our available inventory online or contact us to schedule your test drive. Our team can give you more tips and tricks for driving the Bay Area safely in your new ride.

Thinking of going electric? You’re not alone. In fact, more drivers are making the switch to electrified vehicles. The good news is that there are more options available than ever before, but how can you decide which electric vehicle is right for you? Instead of getting overwhelmed by all the options, use Carnamic’s helpful guide to finding your perfect EV! more Hybrid vs. PHEV vs. Electric The first step to choosing the right electrified vehicle is finding the type of EV that suits your lifestyle. There are three main types of electrified vehicles: battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). You can read more details about the differences here. Once you understand more about how each type works, you can get to the fun part - finding the one that’s perfect for you. BEVs are ideal for those who want a totally emissions-free drive. Electric vehicles are great for the Bay Area because of our numerous charging stations. If you’re considering an EV, you’ll want to consider how much you drive daily and how charging fits in with your drive. For example, many EVs have a range up to 300+ miles, so even a long commute won’t be an issue for an electric vehicle. If you aren’t sure about going fully electric, then a PHEV or HEV might be better for you. You still get the convenience and familiarity of a gas-powered engine, but with the added benefits of a hybrid electric powertrain. As the name implies, plug-in hybrids do need to be charged, so you’ll want to be sure you have a charging station nearby. You can also consider installing one right at your home. Hybrids offer the most convenience with no need for charging, all while boosting your fuel efficiency. Go Electric with Carnamic Still not sure which type of electric vehicle you’d prefer? Browse the available hybrid and electric vehicles available at Carnamic, then visit one of our locations for a test drive! Once you have first-hand experience, you can make a more informed decision on your next electrified vehicle. Of course, our knowledgeable staff will be there every step of the way to answer your questions and help you make the right choice. Contact us to schedule your test drive today!

The year is winding down, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a great time to plan your next road trip. The cooler months have so much to offer around the country, and year-round road trips allow you to explore the different regions in a whole new light. Finding the right vehicle for long drives can make family or solo trips even more enjoyable, and if you’re looking for the best vehicle for your road trip, you’ve come to the right place! more What to Look for in a Road Trip Vehicle Your ideal road trip vehicle might look different than your neighbor’s. It all depends on what types of road trips you like - family adventures, camping excursions, and sightseeing trips might all call for a different type of ride. However, they’ll all have a few things in common in terms of what to look for. Size & Cargo Packing for a cross-country drive is no easy task. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared for anything, and whether you’re car camping or trying to fit the whole family, you’ll want plenty of space for everyone - and everything. Look for a vehicle with adaptable seating, like the three-row Nissan Pathfinder or Honda Pilot. The back rows can easily fold down for extra storage, or keep them up to seat up to eight passengers. You can also look for built-in or add-on accessories like a roof rack or cargo organizer to keep things out of the way. Comfort Don’t underestimate the power of a comfortable seat when you’re on a cross-country trek. Features like leg room and heated seats to keep the whole crew nice and comfortable for the long-haul. Some vehicles, like the Hyundai Palisade, even have massaging seats for ultimate relaxation. Entertainment features like a Bluetooth-capable infotainment system will make the ride more enjoyable and give everyone a turn at setting the soundtrack for the drive. Fuel Economy Great fuel economy is a huge positive for both road trips and everyday life. Although you might think that large SUVs and fuel efficiency might not go hand in hand, there are now several hybrid and electric options that offer the best of both worlds. For example, the Outlander PHEV will get you a combined 64 MPG with convenient plug-in charging, while hybrid electric vehicles like the Kia Sorento Hybrid offer 35 MPG without the need to charge. Driver Assist Features If you’ve never used driver assist features, you’ll be amazed at how useful and convenient they are for both short and long drives. Once fatigue sets in, you’ll love how helpful features like lane keep assist and driver attention warnings can be. Just be sure you don’t rely on them too much; if you find yourself drifting too often, take a rest or switch drivers. Plan Your Road Trip with Carnamic The Carnamic team is here to help you find the road trip vehicle of your dreams! Visit one of our several Bay Area locations for personalized service and to test drive your next car, truck, SUV, or van today.

Fall is one of the best times of year to enjoy the Bay Area. Cooler nights, mild days, and the distinct lack of ice makes the Bay Area enjoyable during the fall months. But just because we don’t face traditional winter weather doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t prepare our vehicles for different seasons. In fact, some of our best fall vehicle maintenance tips apply to drivers in all weather conditions. Keep reading to learn how you should prepare your vehicle for the coming fall and winter months. more Fall/Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist Whether you’re coming out of a busy summer of cross-country roadtrips or warm weather activities around the Bay Area, you’ll want to perform some basic maintenance to ensure your vehicle is ready for fall. Fluids Between long drives and stop-and-go city traffic, your vehicle’s fluids more than likely need a refresh. Follow the oil change recommendations in your owner’s manual, and don’t forget about other fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Not sure which fluids should be swapped? Consult a Carnamic technician! Tire Tread and Pressure Tires are often overlooked as one of the most important aspects of a vehicle’s performance. Measure your tire’s tread levels in different locations of the tire to check for even wear, then use a pressure gauge to check for proper pressure. If any of your measurements are off, be sure to swap out your old tires for new ones and get regular tire rotations to help the new set last longer. Brakes Good tires are nothing without good brakes, and you want to make sure everything in your braking system is healthy at each change of season. Pads, rotors, and brake lines can all wear down over time, so get everything checked out by a technician to make sure everything is in working order. Battery Nobody wants to go to start their vehicle only to be met with a clicking sound and no power. Even if you aren’t stuck in the freezing weather, waiting for a jump can be inconvenient. So before fall hits, it can be a good idea to have your battery inspected. That includes connectors, corrosion on any part of the battery, and measuring the battery power with a tool called a multimeter. Schedule Your Vehicle Maintenance at Carnamic Do you need a vehicle inspection or other maintenance services before fall hits? Schedule your service today at Carnamic! We have several locations across the Bay Area specializing in Mitsubishi, Kia, INFINITI, and more, so contact us today and get your vehicle ready for fall.

Choosing the right vehicle can feel daunting. You want one that checks all the boxes: affordable, comfortable, versatile, and roomy enough to fit all your needs. That can be especially challenging in the Bay Area where long commutes, hilly terrain, and difficult parking are the norm. But finding the right vehicle while living in the Bay Area isn't impossible - just follow Carnamic's guide! more Best Vehicles for a Long Commute There are two things to look out for in a vehicle when you have a long commute: reliability and fuel economy. The last thing you want is to break down or run out of fuel in the middle of rush hour - especially on a hot day. When it comes to reliability, Kia ranks high among automakers, and a bonus customer favorites like the Sorento come in hybrid versions for a boost in fuel savings. You can also go fully electric with options like the Nissan Ariya for a 304-mile range with zero fuel and zero emissions. Best Vehicles for City Driving Maybe fuel economy isn't as much of a concern as navigating narrow streets and tight corners. In that case, a more compact vehicle might be a better choice. You can still go for a hybrid or electric vehicle with the Nissan Leaf, or stick with the wallet-friendly Mitsubishi Mirage with its 15.1-foot turning radius. Parking will be much easier, and so will hitting the hills with features like Hill Start Assist. If budget is a concern, you'll find that these compact options fit the bill, or you can go with a used or certified pre-owned vehicle for more savings. Best Vehicles for Families The life of a family in the Bay Area is undeniably busy. It can get downright hectic sometimes, and having a vehicle that can adapt while holding all your kids, their friends, and their gear is a necessity. Look for three rows of seating that can easily fold down to give you access to cargo space or seating, like the Mitsubishi Outlander. Two rows of seating might also be plenty, in which case you might like the Hyundai Santa Fe's power liftgate and infotainment system. Shop New Vehicles in the Bay Area at Carnamic When it comes to finding your ideal vehicle for your Bay Area lifestyle, you have lots of options. No vehicle is one size fits all, but you can find the right one for you at Carnamic. We have several locations across the Bay Area with a helpful team that can help you find just what you're looking for. Contact us today to get started!

Moving, downsizing, trading up - there are plenty of reasons you might want to sell your current car, truck, or SUV. Whatever your reason, we make selling your car in the Bay Area simple! At Carnamic, we're the Bay Area's source for new and used vehicles, but that's not all we do. In order to sell used vehicles at the best prices, we need a pre-used inventory, and that's where you come in. more What's my car worth? Whether you want to simply sell or trade in for a new model, your first question might be: what's my car worth? Knowing your car's value is helpful if you're looking to budget for a big purchase or put it towards a new vehicle. If you want an estimate for your car's value, our website is a great place to start. Fill out this form with details about your car's make, model, year, and condition. Then, we'll assess its value and offer an estimate. It's as easy as that! Our simple pricing takes all the guesswork out of finding out your car's value so you can sell with confidence. Sell or Trade Not sure if you want to sell or make a trade? No problem! Once you have an estimate for your car's value, you can browse our new and used inventory to find a vehicle that catches your eye. We're also just as happy to purchase your car and send you on your way. If you do find a new car you like, though, we're here to help you find financing and lease options that cover the remaining value after your trade-in. When you're ready to start, just visit one of our many conveniently located Bay Area locations to start your sale or trade. Carnamic is your one-stop shop for all your car selling needs. Sell Your Car at Carnamic So, are you ready to sell? Contact the Carnamic team today for personalized service and assistance with your sale or trade. Our team is ready to help and answer any of your questions about car selling or trade-in process. We look forward to buying your car!

We love living in the Bay Area. The sun, the warm weather - what isn't there to love? Unfortunately, our favorite things about living here can be what causes the most damage to our vehicles. Sun and heat are incredibly hard on both the interior and exterior of vehicles. Even the engine can take an extra beating from the heat. So, what can you do to protect your new vehicle from sun damage? Follow these simple tips to protect your car from Carnamic. more Tips to Protect Your New Vehicle from the Sun Since we're exposed to the sun's rays year-round, it's especially important to take extra steps to stop the threat of damage. Although all Carnamic vehicles come with Paint and Fabric Protection, is that really enough? While the Zurich Shield might help save you from spills or tree sap, you might want another layer of protection from the sun and heat. Park in the Shade It makes sense that avoiding the sun altogether will provide the most protection from the sun's rays. Even though it's not always easy finding an open parking spot in the shade, always take one when you can - even if it's a bit of a walk from your destination. Cover Your Seats and Windows The last thing you want is for your luxurious leather seats to get dry and cracked. That's where seat covers can help. They can protect your skin from hot seats as well as keep your leather or fabric seating from deteriorating and becoming damaged. While you're add it, consider a folding window cover to keep the sun out when you can't find shade. Wash and Dry Keeping your vehicle's exterior clean can feel like a pointless task, but it's one that does more than keep your vehicle looking great. Washing and drying often will remove the dust and debris from your vehicle. Finish with a fresh wax to protect the paint from harmful UV rays. Routine Maintenance Every driver dreads a breakdown, and your car can overheat more easily without proper maintenance. Be sure to regularly change your oil and flush fluids. A maintenance plan or extended warranty can make your job easier! Find Your New Car at Carnamic If you're ready for a new car, truck, or SUV, stop by one of Carnamic's many Bay Area locations! We can give you more tips on maintaining your vehicle, recommend protection plans, and help you keep your new car looking its best.

Shopping for a new vehicle should be fun, and it is at your nearest Bay Area Carnamic dealerships. Whether you're looking to test drive a new or used vehicle, you'll find the right selection at the right prices at any of our locations. Keep reading to learn more about the test drive experience at Carnamic and a few of our favorite test driving tips. more The Carnamic Experience We want to make the car shopping experience positive for every customer. That's why each of our vehicles is listed online, including all specs and features. Our shopping tool allows you to narrow down the search to find just what you're looking for, all before you even step foot in our dealership. Along with the features you want, every vehicle has a simple price listed so you never need to worry about being surprised. We break down the price to include any discounts and additional charges, like our paint and fabric protection, so the final price is right there for you to see. Then, once it's time to schedule your test drive, drop in at any of our Bay Area dealerships. Looking for the new Outlander PHEV in Hayward? Want the luxury INFINITI experience? There's something for everyone at Carnamic. Test Driving Tips Is this your first test drive? Haven't shopped around in a while? Instead of being overwhelmed, you can follow these tips to help you narrow your search and choose the vehicle of your dreams. Make a list of must-have features before you start looking for a vehicle. If you have your heart set on leather seats or want advanced driver assist technology, only search for vehicles that actually have what you want. Bring your driver's license to your test drive. We need to make a copy and have it on file before you get behind the wheel, and forgetting to bring it means you have to make another trip. Take notes. When you test out multiple vehicles in a row, it can be easy forget what you do and don't like about each. After each test drive, jot down a few notes in your phone or on a notepad to help keep everything straight. Always ask questions! Not sure what that knob does? Want to know how the infotainment system works? Our staff members are knowledgeable and helpful, and we love to demonstrate how everything works for you. Try to drive the vehicle in multiple settings when possible. That is, take it on city streets, residential roads, and highways to see how it handles in every situation. Test Drive Today with Carnamic At Carnamic, our goal is to find you your favorite vehicle at the right price. Feel free to contact us without any questions about a specific vehicle before visiting us for your test drive.

When you're looking at a new vehicle, you have two options for payment: leasing and purchasing. Both require a credit approval and monthly financing. But what's the difference between the two? Being informed of your options can help you make the right choice and get the best deal on your new vehicle. more Leasing Think of leasing like you would renting; you're paying a monthly payment for the use of the vehicle without paying toward owning it. Just as you would sign the lease to rent an apartment, leasing a vehicle has a preset term limit before you return it back to the dealership, which can be either a length of time or a specific mileage limit. A lease may or may not require a down payment, which can depend on your credit application. There are several pros and cons when it comes to leasing a vehicle. One of the main benefits is a lower cost. Leasing typically comes with a lower monthly payment, and since you're leasing a new vehicle, there's no worry about the wear and tear you're incurring. New vehicles are most likely covered under warranty, so you have added protection during your lease term. However, the downside is that you're paying toward something you'll never own. You might be limited to how often or far you can drive the vehicle due to mileage limitations, and you'll rack up extra charges if you go over that limit. Purchasing When you choose to purchase a vehicle, it's more like buying a home. Your payment goes toward the vehicle, making you the owner once your loan is paid off. At the time of purchase, you'll submit a credit application, submit a down payment, and receive financing through the dealership or your own bank. Then, each month, you'll pay a set monthly amount toward the ownership of your vehicle. The monthly payment tends to be higher, but it might be worth it knowing you'll eventually be the full owner. When you purchase, you're free to customize your vehicle and drive it as often or as far as you'd like without any penalties. Purchasing does have its downsides, though. You're totally responsible for all maintenance and upkeep of the vehicle for as long as you own it, and depreciation rates can be unpredictable. Buy or Lease with Carnamic Whether you choose to lease or purchase, you can find your next new vehicle here at Carnamic! We offer in-house financing, hassle-free lease options, and a huge selection of new vehicles at any of our Bay Area locations. Contact us today to discuss your options and get help finding your new car!

Purchasing an automobile is a big process, but it doesn’t have to be as stressful or inconvenient as it used to be for people with busy schedules or who prefer to do their shopping at home. These days, you can buy just about anything online, and that includes vehicles. If you’re trying to buy a new or used car, truck or utility vehicle in the Bay Area, California, but don’t want to go into the dealership for one reason or another, you can take care of the process right here on the Carnamic website. more Car-buying Process Almost every step of the car-buying process can be handled right from the comfort of your living room couch or the desk chair in your office at work. There are certainly some optional steps you might choose to come into the dealership for, such as taking the vehicle you’re interested in for a test drive, but many other steps throughout the process can be done right from home. The whole process starts with doing your research. The first step is always going to be deciding which vehicle you’re interested in, and you can find an ever-growing resource of information on the vehicles we sell at Carnamic dealerships right here on this website as well as our individual dealers’ websites. Read about the different models that are available to you, or perhaps more broad topics like the types of vehicles that are available, and start to narrow down the list of models in which you might be interested. From there you’re going to browse through our available inventory to find an actual vehicle that suits your needs. You can find both our new and used vehicle inventories right here on the website, and there are ways for you to make sure the model you’re interested in is still available through buttons and forms. Then you can apply for financing right through a link on our website as well. Feel free to give us a call with any questions that you might have about the car-buying process, we’re excited to help you start your journey into the driver’s seat of a new or used vehicle.