How to Read Tire Sizes
If you’re replacing the tires on your vehicle, you’ll need to know their size, diameter, and any other important information. Here’s a quick guide for how to read tire sizes so that you can purchase the right tires for your car.
Tire Type
First, locate the sequence of numbers and letters on the sidewall of your tire. This will be the same on all four of your tires. The sequence you’re looking for should read something like “P245/50R20 102V.” The first part of this sequence is a letter that represents the type of tire you have. In this example, the letter is P, which stands for “passenger” and signifies that the tires are inspected according to federal safety standards for passenger vehicles. Read the rest of this entry »
CX-3, CX-5, CX-9: What Does It All Mean?
If you’re looking for versatility and performance of an SUV, Mazda has several options to choose from. Among several new Mazda models to think about are the CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9. Here’s an overview comparing all three Mazda models so you can decide which one is the best choice for you.
Mazda CX-3
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact crossover SUV that is available in only the Sport trim level. The CX-3 boasts an appealing exterior that includes features like adaptive headlights, LED lighting, and several paint colors to choose from. The CX-3 offers several standard convenience and comfort features such as automatic climate control, push-button ignition, and remote keyless entry with Answer Back technology. Read the rest of this entry »
Show Up in Style With a 2020 Mazda CX-9
If you’re looking for a standout SUV that’s fun to drive and has smooth handling and a good fuel economy, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 may be the answer. From its upscale interior to its advanced driver-assistance features, you’re sure to find what you and your passengers need with Mazda’s 2020 CX-9. Read on to learn more about the features this SUV has to offer.
Variety of Exterior Details
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes in four trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature. The Sport and Touring editions come with 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a Gray Metallic finish and a body-colored rear roof spoiler. The Grand Touring trim comes with 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with Mazda’s Brilliant Silver finish and a power-sliding glass moonroof with sunshade. The higher-level Signature model has the same wheels but with Mazda’s Dark Silver finish. It also features a Signature badge and an LED signature grille accent lighting for added luxury.
Upscale Interior
The inside of the cabin has many high-end features and materials that give this SUV a luxury feel. The Signature trim, in particular, offers the most upscale materials with the Nappa leather seating and trim, the genuine Santos Rosewood inlays, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and LED overhead accent lighting. For added comfort, you also get heated front seats in all models.
Power and Performance Capabilities
All CX-9 models feature a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. With premium gas, you get an improved 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This SUV also has a six-speed automatic transmission, and every model has the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, apart from the Signature model that only comes with all-wheel drive. Overall, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 offers a quiet ride and smooth handling.
User-Friendly Entertainment Options
The Mazda CX-9 also has a variety of features to keep you and your passengers entertained on the road. The Sport model has a 7-inch touchscreen display, while the Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models all have an 8-inch screen. Not only is it easy to use, but it also offers clear and beautiful graphics. You also get an HD radio and the Mazda Connect Infotainment System, which includes voice command and onboard internet radio applications like Pandora.
Every model apart from the Sport edition has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These allow you to connect your smartphone device to your car while you’re on the road. Apple CarPlay gives you access to maps, playlists, and your iPhone’s contacts. You can also use compatible applications in your CX-9 using Siri.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
To prevent accidents and injuries, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with several safety and driver-assistance features. Standard features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features can help give you confidence on the road. They’re also part of the standard i-Activsense bundle that’s new to this lineup of SUVs. Read the rest of this entry »
When you’re searching for the perfect refreshing beverage to help you cool down, you can’t beat a cold coffee drink. Whether you need a shot of energy in the morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, you’ll love the variety of drinks you can find at these coffee shops around Rochester, Minnesota.
Cafe Steam
Cafe Steam is a warm and inviting brick-lined cafe with walls that feature local art, a spot for live music, and plenty of specialty drinks and baked goods on the menu. All the coffee selections are brewed using a Fetco brewer to help bring out the unique flavor profile. Some popular signature drinks include the Melya, which is raw cacao mixed with a syrup that uses local honey and two shots of espresso, and the Shakerato, which has three shots of espresso shaken with sugar and poured into a rocks glass. Read the rest of this entry »
Sometimes nothing but a classic American burger will hit the spot. The next time you’re craving a juicy burger cooked just the way you like it, you’ll find exactly what you want when you check out these top burger bars around Rochester, Minnesota. 
Hot Chip Burger Bar
Whether you’re vegan or a meat lover, Hot Chip Burger Bar has something you’ll love. At Hot Chip Vegan Burger Bar, you’ll find plant-based vegan patties served on a toasted sprouted wheat and potato bun. The classic vegan burger comes with vegan American cheese, onion, pickles, and a special sauce. At the traditional Hot Chip Burger Bar, all burgers come with two 4-ounce patties served on a toasted egg bun. One popular option is the BBWT, which has Texas bacon, bacon jam, watercress, tomato, and mayonnaise. Read the rest of this entry »
Experience the Power of the 2020 Mazda CX-5
If you’re shopping for a new SUV, look no further than the 2020 Mazda CX-5. Whether you’re looking for an upscale interior or added protection on the road, the CX-5 has it all. Read on to learn about some of the best features you get when you purchase the Mazda CX-5.
Attractive and Roomy Interior
This SUV offers a high-end and comfortable cabin. Some of these luxuries include a leather-wrapped steering wheel in all trim levels and Caturra Brown Nappa leather-trimmed seats in the Signature trim. In addition, all models seat up to five passengers comfortably. Read the rest of this entry »
When’s the last time you saw a drive-in movie? If you’ve been meaning to get nostalgic and see a movie from the comfort and freedom of your car, it’s time to take advantage of this dwindling pastime while the theaters are still around. Check out these drive-in theaters in the Rochester area. Whether you want to make it a weekend trip or head home after the movie, this is your chance to relive your past or get acquainted with something your parents loved. Bring some lawn furniture if you want to enjoy an open-air experience.
Elko Drive-In Theater
The closest drive-in theater from Rochester is the Elko Drive-In Theater in Elko New Market, about 70 miles away. Because it’s also the home of the Elko Speedway, you could go see a race and then enjoy a current popular movie. The movie starts about 20 minutes after the last race. In addition to a well-stocked concession stand, the theater provides barbecue grills. The speedway and theater are at 26350 France Ave. Read the rest of this entry »
3 Best Spring Drives in Rochester
As the sun’s rays shine down and we enjoy the middle of spring, it’s nice to get outdoor and take advantage of the beautiful surroundings. This spring, be sure to check out a few of the top drives in Rochester that offer stunning views of the natural beauty. 
- Forestville
Forestville Mystery Cave is worth visiting, and the drive to get there offers glimpses of some of the state’s most beautiful scenery. The drive from Rochester is about 40 miles, and you have several options. You can take County Road 1 SE, Highway 63, or a combination of County Road 1 SE and MN-16. Each of these routes offers impressive views, and when you arrive at the cave and state park, you can get out and explore. The state park houses miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, while the mystery cave is open for tours beginning in May. Read the rest of this entry »
4 Tips for Keeping Your Tires in Like-New Shape
Taking care of your vehicle’s tires is one of the most important tasks you can do when it comes to keeping the car safe. Although modern vehicles are equipped with a number of innovative safety features, the tires are still essential to overall safety. After all, they’re the only part of the car that connects to the road on which you’re driving. Follow a few helpful tips to keep your tires in tip-top shape.
- Rotate Them Regularly
The best way to make sure your tires wear evenly is to have them rotated frequently. Tire rotation is recommended every 6,000-8,000 miles you drive and can help extend the life of the tires substantially. During the process, the tires will be removed from the car and replaced in other positions. Read the rest of this entry »
Take the 2020 Mazda CX-30 for a Ride
Mazda’s all-new CX-30 will delight you with its stylish design, advanced safety features, and powerful engine. Available in four trim packages including the base, Select, Preferred, and Premium, the CX-30 is perfect for busy commuters and families on the go. Read on to learn more about the 2020 Mazda CX-30. 
Exterior Features
All CX-30 models are equipped with power-folding side mirrors, LED headlights, LED combination taillights, LED daytime running lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a rear spoiler. The Select Preferred and Premium models also include rear privacy glass. The top-of-the-line Premium model also includes a power-sliding moonroof, roof rails, a rear power liftgate, and an adaptive front-lighting system. The CX-30 is available in a wide variety of bold colors including snowflake white pearl, polymetal gray, machine gray, deep crystal blue, soul red, and jet black. Read the rest of this entry »


