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The Mazda CX-3 is a great car, but there are several differences in the three trim levels. Here is what each one offers so you can make a decision on which trim level is the best one for you. Engines All trim levels come in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models have a 2.0-liter engine that gets 148 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. more Sport Trim Level The Sport trim level has black cloth upholstery inside of it. On the outside, 16-inch alloy wheels are found on it. There are daytime running lights and halogen headlights with clear lenses that have an automatic off feature. The side mirrors are body-colored and have turn signals displayed on them to let other drivers know what your intent is. On the outside, you'll find a back roofline spoiler and dual exhaust outlets that have a bright finish. Inside, there is an air conditioning system that has a pollen filter to help reduce allergens from coming into the vehicle. Touring Trim Level The Mazda CX-3 Touring trim level has simulated suede and leather seating surfaces. This model has 18-inch alloy wheels and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry. The system allows you to unlock and lock the doors, as well as the boot and liftgate lid, without touching it. As long as you have the key on you, you're able to open the boot and liftgate lid. This trim level also has automatic climate control and a tilt and telescopic steering column. Rain-sensing wipers automatically turn on when raindrops are detected on the windshield. The vehicle also has heated side mirrors to defog the mirrors quickly when it's cold outside. You'll feel safe driving this car with blind-spot monitoring that lets you know when there's an object or car behind you. Grand Touring Trim Level You'll find real leather, as well as contrasting piping, in the Grand Touring model. This is the most elegant trim level in the line and features leather-trimmed seats. You'll love driving around town in this, as it comes with the Mazda Navigation System. The Grand Touring trim level has fog lights and LED headlights to make sure you can see clearly on the road and that others can see you. You'll also love the navigation system that makes it easy to get around town and find directions to the nearest gas station, restaurant, and more. Bose audio ensures the music that comes out of your speakers sounds great. There are also paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. If you upgrade to the GT Premium Package, you'll also get a heated steering wheel, cruise control that's radar-based, and a driver's seat that's power adjustable. If you're interested in the Mazda CX-3, come check it out in person at our dealership at Russel & Smith Mazda. Our helpful staff is ready to answer any questions you have about it to make sure it's the perfect car for you. You can even take it for a test drive if you would like. Some rights reserved by RL GNZ

The 2019 30th Anniversary Edition of the Mazda MX-5 Miata celebrates three decades of power and innovation under the Mazda name. Only 3,000 of these models will be made across the globe and only 500 made available in the United States. If you like what you see, you'll want to reserve one as soon as possible. Here's what to expect from this very special model. more Impressive Power When you get behind the wheel of a 2019 30th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata, you'll instantly feel the muscle behind this roadster. An upgrade in power from the previous year's model offers 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. With rear-wheel drive, this vehicle is quick and nimble for a thrilling ride. Eye-Catching Exterior Turn heads with the new color available only on this special edition MX-5, Racing Orange. Opt for the available convertible folding fabric roof and you'll have the chance to enjoy a most relaxing drive in the sun. A retractable fastback hardtop convertible roof is also available. With the piano black accents on the side mirrors and 17-inch forged alloy wheels with a dark gunmetal finish, this exterior is sure to catch attention. Luxurious Interior Inside the 30th Anniversary Edition of the Mazda MX-5, you'll find sport seats with bright orange stitching and piping for stylish contrast. With piano black interior accents and heated Alcantara seating, this is a cabin you'll want to show off. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob also feature orange stitching. You'll also get to enjoy total connectivity while relaxing in this luxurious interior. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available for smartphone integration, so you can have access to your phone calls, messages, apps, music, and more through Mazda's infotainment system. With integrated navigation, drivers can check fuel prices, keep up with traffic updates, check the weather, and find available parking, all through the full-color touchscreen. A nine-speaker premium sound system by Bose will help you enjoy your favorite music at optimal quality. Top-Notch Performance Enjoy the drive in this classic Mazda roadster with performance features that deliver optimal handling and a smooth ride. The six-speed manual transmission option provides total driver control and comes equipped with a front shock tower brace, providing more responsive and precise steering and Bilstein performance shock absorbers. A limited-slip differential means better cornering capabilities. Active Safety You'll want all of the safety features you can get to keep you and this beautiful vehicle safe from collisions and any potential damage. With Mazda's active safety features, sensors and intelligent technology work together to warn the driver of possible dangers while on the road. A blind spot monitoring system will let you know if a car is in one of your blind spots as you signal to change lanes. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle is drifting from its lane without proper signaling. Rear cross-traffic alert will warn the driver of any cars passing behind the vehicle while it's backing out of a driveway or parking space. Head into Russell and Smith Mazda to browse our line-up of new Mazda models. Get behind the wheel and feel the power and luxury they offer. You may just find one you can't leave without. Image from mazdausa.com

When you're in Houston, there are plenty of restaurants to go to if you're in the mood for Tex-Mex. Whether you want an appetizer and drinks or a hearty meal, here are three top-notch Tex-Mex restaurants to check out in Houston. El Patio El Patio has been a staple in Houston for over half a century. This restaurant is a great place to come when you're in the mood for Tex Mex food. Start with their famous queso recipe to hold you over until your meal comes. Happy hour is a popular time to come which goes from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 am to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. You'll find choices like nachos, quesadillas, and mini ceviche on the menu in addition to discounts on margaritas and beer. more They're a great choice for lunch, with options like fajitas, shrimp and crab enchiladas, and taco salad. Dinner offers a wider variety of food such as soup and salads, chalupas, and flautas with various options of meat to choose from. Some popular dishes include the Sunrise Enchiladas, which is a fried egg on top of cheese enchiladas, and Carne Guisada with beef tips and a Mexican pepper sauce topped with onions and served with flour tortillas. If you're still hungry, check out the dessert menu for choices such as flan and sopapillas. El Tiempo Cantina The family that started El Tiempo Cantina claim to be the ones that made fajitas popular in the United States, and they've worked on perfecting their Tex-Mex cuisine ever since. Everything is made fresh, whether it's fresh-squeezed lime juice or fresh chicken breast fajitas. To start, try a side of guacamole or chile con queso as an appetizer. They have a variety of nacho plates including jumbo lump crab nachos and fajita nachos with salmon or pork tender. The restaurant also serves unique dishes such as spicy Mexican shrimp, bacon quesadillas, and spicy filet cortadillo quesadillas. Those who are gluten-free will be happy to know they also have options here. Ceviche is a favorite option with citrus vinaigrette mixed with scallops, shrimp, and calamari. Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe If you're looking for somewhere to go for happy hour, check out the one at Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe. They have discounts on food and drinks all day from Monday to Wednesday and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. The restaurant also has a daily special every day for $9.99, so make sure to see what it is when you stop by. If you feel like eating healthy, they have options such as a shrimp salad and chef salad. There is also a variety of carne asada such as baby back ribs, beef skirt steak, and strip sirloin steak with grilled jumbo shrimp. Entrees include choices like shrimp, chicken, or beef enchiladas and shrimp or bean burritos. A restaurant favorite are the tortas, a large Mexican bun filled with shrimp, beef, or chicken and beans, lettuce, and tomatoes. Some rights reserved by jeffreyw

While the Mazda 3 has been redesigned multiple times since it was first introduced in 2004, the 2019 version has been overhauled the most, both on the outside and the inside. The biggest news is the new SkyActiv engine, making it the first car to have this technology. Here is some information on the redesign and why you'll want to make it your next car. Sleek Exterior Look The outside has been given a brand-new sleek and curvaceous look, that gives the impression to those passing by that the car is moving even when it's not, thanks to a play on reflection and light. The length of the car was also extended to make it longer overall. Exciting New Engine The SkyActiv engine is a big deal among car enthusiasts as it's the first of its kind for Mazda. The engine is gasoline-powered, diesel-style, and has an electric-hybrid powertrain. Thanks to the powertrain, a spark is used to form a pressure wave that starts compression ignition so there are improved fuel efficiency and torque. The car is predicted to deliver a powerful punch while not worrying about sacrificing fuel economy. The car has a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter engine that's lightly supercharged, and is estimated to have 170 pound-feet of torque and 190 horsepower. The engine is joined by a mild-hybrid system that increases fuel economy and performance even more. There is also a SkyActive-G engine that has a 2.5-liter engine with 186 pound-feet of torque and 187 horsepower. New Cabin The cabin has a new look with a dashboard that's restrained and clean with minimal buttons. There is also a touchscreen that's 8.8 inches so you can easily navigate options like music and other features of the car. Additional sound insulation was added for better noise, vibration, and harshness. The steering wheel goes out farther than it did before and the seats were redesigned. The seat-tilt feature is now standard, which allows for more space for taller drivers. Mazda3 Safety Features The i-Activsense suite was updated with a new Driver Monitor system. This uses an infrared camera with LED to watch the driver's level of fatigue and drowsiness, condition, and eye movements, to see if they seem distracted. Cruising & Traffic Support also helps the driver with braking, accelerating, and steering when they are in a traffic jam. A series of technologies are used that involve cameras and radars to keep the driver safer. The driver will recognize possible hazard thanks to this technology and there are also pre-crash safety features to avoid crashes or lessen their severity if the car is unable to avoid them. To check out the Mazda 3 in person, head to our dealership at Russel & Smith Mazda. Our staff will tell you everything you need to know about the car to make sure it's a good fit for you. You'll even be able to take it for a test drive if you want to see what it feels like in the driver's seat. Image from mazdausa.com

With the SUV soaring in popularity over the past few years, competition has never been fiercer. Nowadays, it takes something special to stand out in such a crowded market, and the 2019 Mazda CX-9 is truly a special vehicle. Great in Any Trim Level This seven-seater, three-row crossover SUV is available in four trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature. Keeping the standards high, even the base Sport trim is very well-equipped. It features gorgeous, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and tri-zone automatic climate control, plus excellent connectivity options and modern active safety features. more Higher trims bring extra features such as automatic headlights, heated seats, leather upholstery, larger wheels, a spectacular sunroof, driver-seat memory functions, and a premium Bose audio system featuring 12 speakers and satellite radio. Power and Performance All 2019 Mazda CX-9 trims are powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. All this power is transmitted down to the wheels with the help of a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes as standard, but the option for all-wheel drive is also available. Although it's a large vehicle that's able to carry up to seven passengers, the 2019 CX-9 feels like a much smaller car when you're driving it. The performance numbers confirm it, and the Mazda is able to reach 60 miles per hour from a standstill in only 7.3 seconds, a good time even for a sedan. Braking is well above average, as it only needs 115 feet to come to a complete halt from a speed of 60 miles per hour. Comfort and Technology The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is the perfect car to take your family on road trips, as everyone will be comfortable and entertained. The overall ride is smooth, the cabin is quiet, and the seats have a well-designed shape especially created for long drives. The soft suspension and well-balanced transmission contribute a great deal to the overall smoothness. The interior is not only comfortable but also great-looking and smartly designed. The 7-inch touch-screen display is intuitive and easy to use. But there are also plenty of physical buttons for times the driver needs to keep the eyes on the road. Smartphone connectivity is also a breeze. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, as well as Bluetooth and plenty of USB ports throughout the car for everyone to charge his or her phone on. Safety Features Being primarily a family car, safety is a top priority for the 2019 Mazda CX-9. Active safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, low-speed automatic braking, and rear cross-traffic alert all come as standard, while other optional features include lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. In case an accident does happen, the CX-9 is a very safe car, as confirmed by The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration giving it top safety marks. SUVs are great cars because they're fit for all purposes. If you're looking for a car that fits your entire family but is also fun to drive, you need to look no further than the 2019 Mazda CX-9. Image from Mazdausa.com

When it's time for teenagers to get their first car, they want something stylish and fun. However, you want something safe and efficient. Fortunately, the 2019 Mazda6 offers what everyone wants in one vehicle. Learn more about the top reasons why you and your teenager will love the Mazda6. Plenty of Style Take one look at the 2019 Mazda6 and you'll see why your teen will love driving it. This stylish sedan has a sleek and smooth body designed to turn heads. Standard features include automatic LED headlights with an auto-leveling feature, LED daytime running lights, side mirrors with built-in turn signal indicators, and LED taillights. Higher trim levels only add to the style and comfort by including available rain-sensing windshield wipers, a moonroof, heated and auto-dimming side mirrors, a spoiler, and windshield wiper de-icer. more Fun and Efficient Not only does the Mazda6 look good, but it's also fun to drive. The vehicle comes standard with a SKYACTIV 2.5-liter engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. While teens love the responsive feeling of this engine, they also appreciate the efficiency. Thanks to the EPA-estimated 26 miles per gallon in the city, 35 miles per gallon on the highway, and 29 miles per gallon combined with the automatic transmission, they can spend their money on something other than gas. Comfortable Interior A comfortable drive is important, and that's why teenagers enjoy the inside of the Mazda6. For convenience, the vehicle comes standard with a push-button start, electronic parking brake, and remote keyless entry system. The standard dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter keeps the cabin comfortable and makes the air easier to breathe, and the available leather-trimmed and heated front seats will make those chilly days easy to handle. Plus, the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector add a touch of luxury to the vehicle. The Latest Technology Every teen wants to enjoy the latest technology. That's why the 2019 Mazda6 comes with some impressive connectivity features. The vehicle's infotainment system comes standard with an 8-inch touch-screen display, six-speaker audio system, auxiliary audio input jack, USB port, HD Radio, and steering wheel-mounted controls. Since teens are always on their phones, the Mazda6 makes sure they do it safely with the hands-free calling and audio streaming using Bluetooth and text message audio delivery and reply. Advanced Safety Features While your teen will love driving around with the excellent technology features, you'll have peace of mind knowing he or she is secure with some of the latest safety features. The Mazda6 comes standard with a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, Smart City Brake Support, and a tire pressure monitoring system. If you're interested in even more safety features, the higher trim levels are available with advanced Smart City Brake Support, Smart Brake Support with collision warning, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. If you're searching for a new car for your teen that you both can agree on, check out the 2019 Mazda6 and discover even more features that everyone will love.

Camping offers the perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to scope out wildlife and enjoy scenic landscapes. It also means spending time with friends and family who share the same interests as you do. If you're planning some recreational fun surrounded by nature and bonfires, these five shops in Houston, Texas, can help you gear up for the perfect camping trip. REI Houston The right equipment enhances outdoor adventures, and REI Houston has a catalog that fits the bill nicely. They even offer workshops to enhance your camping knowledge. From cots and air mattresses to tents and shelter setups, this store has much to offer. You can also shop for items like binoculars, compasses, maps, flashlights, and backpacks for all ages (even some with child carriers). In addition, you can browse the first-aid kits for the right blend of emergency tools and pick up handy accessories such as sunscreen and bug repellant. Other basics include dishware, cookware, and utensils to ensure your makeshift kitchen is the best of the bunch. Add in protein bars and pre-packaged meals, hiking footwear, and camping apparel, and you're good to go! more Army Surplus World This store caters to more than just a military demographic; it also sells everything you need to prep for a camping trip. At Army Surplus World, you can shop for sleeping bags, mosquito netting, and high-quality hydration products. You can also browse for roping supplies and paracord bracelets, canned cooking fuel, pocket knives, and waterproof matches. Additional accessories you'll find here include standard and military-style first-aid kits, flashlights, and camouflage clothing for both children and adults. Whole Earth Provision Co. Find what you need for camping at Whole Earth Provision Co. It's stocked with all the food and drink essentials, including meal preparation, insulated travel cups, portable stoves, water filters, and Yeti campsite coolers. You can shop for other necessities as well, including antibacterial toothbrush holders, body and hand towels, lighters, mosquito-proof shelters, and reusable heat packs. If you're interested in learning more about animal tracking, fire building, knot tying, or stargazing, Whole Earth Provision Co. offers educational cards with all the basics. Trail Expeditions With a large selection of kitchen and sleeping accessories, you can't go wrong with a tour of Trail Expeditions. This store sells a variety of MSR WindBurner cookware, including coffee press kits, ceramic skillets, and cooking pots. You'll also find a generous amount of Therm-a-Rest supplies ranging from mesh cots and bug shelters to mattresses and camping chairs. If you want to sleep atop your camping vehicle, you can shop the Yakima awnings and rooftop tents, too. Bass Pro Shop For the most extensive collection of outdoor gear and apparel, Bass Pro Shop is a must for camping enthusiasts. This sporting goods store has all the basics, including backpacks, bug repellant, flashlights, first-aid kits, sleeping bags, and stainless steel water bottles. Don't forget to browse the aisles for the right outfit as well, whether it's camouflage clothing, raincoats and rain pants, safari hats, or footwear such as fishing shoes and insulated water boots for both men and women. Need to stock up on the perfect camping gear? These five locations in Houston have everything you need to turn your outdoor adventure into a success. Image via Flickr by Michael Brownlee licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

With a Hispanic population bordering a million, it's no surprise that Houston, Texas, is home to diverse cultures and cuisines. In particular, the Mexican restaurants dotting this metropolis bring together a tasteful blend of local flavors with those from south of the border. If you're in the mood for delicious Mexican food, these top eateries in Houston have just the appetizing cure. Arnaldo Richards' Picos Restaurant People come to Picos Restaurant for the diverse flavors brought to you by the seven regions of Mexico, stretching from "El Norte" to the South Pacific Coast. The menu itself offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch options, as well as daily happy hour deals and fajita specials every Monday and Tuesday. One of the most popular dishes we recommend includes the poblano pepper-stuffed Gulf shrimp wrapped in bacon and seasoned with a house sauce. You can also sample breakfast classics like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. Other favorites include the pork pozole soup, charbroiled beef and chicken fajita tacos, and the refreshing margarita and cocktail options. more Tacos A Go-Go Made-from-scratch Tex-Mex food is commonplace at Tacos A Go-Go. As its name suggests, you can expect to see a menu comprising tacos, tacos, and more tacos. You can make your own using corn, flour, or whole wheat tortillas and fill them up with ingredients like eggs, potatoes, chorizo, refried beans, and pico de gallo. You can also order a Mexican street taco with your choice of tortilla, meat, and toppings like cilantro, onions, and queso fresco (white cheese). Or go for a massive 12-inch burrito filled with taco meat, beans, rice, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and fresh salsa. Other menu items include nachos, quesadillas, and beverages ranging from cafe de olla coffee, Mexican cola, and frozen margaritas. Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen You can find a wide variety of tacos at this establishment as well, though Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen is famous for another popular Mexican dish. It serves up 18 different enchiladas to be exact, and it's received praise for its flavorful cuisine. Chef Sylvia Casares also hosts regular classes for cooking popular Mexican dishes. Options for brunch include an omelet station with ingredients of your choosing, while most lunch and dinner specials are named after South Texas towns. San Antonio comes with fajita tacos and a cheese enchilada. McAllen features two chicken enchiladas drizzled in a chili sauce. El Paso adds three stacked enchiladas and a side of red salsa. Don't forget to pair your meal with a margarita or specialty drink, and finish off with a Mexican dessert like flan, tres leches cake, or sopapillas. Cuchara Restaurant The intricate and brightly colored murals running across the dining room at Cuchara Restaurant may bring diners in, but it's the authentic Mexican bistro food that keeps them coming back for more. This restaurant gets the ball rolling with choices like crispy tortilla soup in a rich pasilla pepper broth, pork belly-stuffed corn gorditas, and a decorated dish of plantain topped with Veracruz-style red snapper. You can also order a Mexican cola, hot chocolate or cappuccino, or traditional agua fresca to complement your meal. For the finest and most flavorful Mexican food in Houston, these top four restaurants certainly offer more than enough to soothe your cuisine cravings. Image via Flickr by DelishPlan licensed under CC-BY 2.0

The Miata MX-5 gets more power than ever for a one-of-a-kind experience behind the wheel. The Miata now brings higher RPMs, higher horsepower, and more torque. The car comes with a manual or automatic transmission, so you can make your driving experience as personalized as you would like. The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been around for nearly three decades. Standard procedure and engine changes now bring the car to a total of 181 horsepower, up 26 from the previous year, and 151 pound-feet of torque. Redlining at 7500 RPMs, the car revs higher than any Miata before, with prompt throttle response and peak torque at 4000 RPMs. The Handling The Miata allows the driver to immerse themselves into the experience with predictable, progressive behavior. It offers a balanced, poised, and playful chassis. The suspension is not new this year, but it remains at a durable consistency as delivered in 2017 when it received some change. The Miata has a telescoping steering wheel to give taller drivers an easier reach. It only weighs 2,345 pounds and remains light, enabling it to reach maximum speed easily and quickly. Steering is described as delightfully sharp by TheDrive. more Great Value The 2019 Miata RF starts around $26,000 for the base stock model. Upgrades can be added for additional cost. Topping out with upgrades at around $40,000 and you can have a custom car. The RF model of this car starts at $33,240 which includes the Club trim. The Grand Touring trim can be added for a price of $34,230. The Brembo package can be purchased for an additional $3,770 and the Brembo/Recaro package can be added for only $4,670. The soft top can be had for $2,500 less than the RF model. There is a base Sport upgrade available only for the soft top series of this car. All the Pros The Mazda Miata RF is an absolute blast to drive, and automotive journalists love this car. The suspension is buttoned down and nimble without being stiff, while the pedals are weighted just right and are easy to press. The car has great fuel economy and is affordable to drive. City drivers doing the stop-and-go game can expect around 33 mpg and you can get up to 38 mpg on the highway, well above the advertised 34 mpg. Aesthetically Pleasing With the roof up or down, this car is beautiful. The car flows amazingly and has a very obvious distinct look to it. The small coupe has seating for two and it is available in both hardtop and soft top. The inside is updated and offers a rising touchscreen, control knobs, and a sleek black and tan interior. A backup camera is also installed which displays on the screen. There is nothing quite like the Mazda Miata RF. It's a vehicle, and experience, everyone should have at least once in their life. Stop in and visit Russel & Smith Mazda's impressive showroom, talk to our knowledgeable sales team, and schedule your test drive today. Image via mazdausa.com.

Houston is full of historical sites and landmarks. It is home to the Apollo Mission Control Center and several more interesting places that would be a joy for you and your family to visit. Here are just a few of our favorites. Houston, We Have a Problem Space Center Houston is a leading space and science technology learning center. Tickets are reasonably priced at $24.95 for children and $29.95 for adults. Children 3 and under are free. They also offer a senior citizen discount. There are simulation experiences that will guide you on a spacewalk or a motion simulator. The center is owned and operated by a non-profit organization. Weekends and Summer days are busier, so please plan your trip accordingly in order to avoid crowds. more Haunted Houston If you enjoy being spooked and experiencing the supernatural, then Houston is the perfect place for you to seek your adventure! Downtown Houston has multiple buildings that house some of their local haunts. The Spaghetti Warehouse is named one of the most haunted places in America by CitySearch. Houston is also home to The Rice Hotel where president John F. Kennedy spent his last night before being assassinated. Battleship Texas is a historic monument to those who fought and died in the world wars. It is actually said that a red-headed sailor will appear on the second deck! Bring It Back to the South, Ya'll Bayou Bend is a quiet oasis in the midst of a busy Metropolis. A sprawling estate located in Houston's Memorial Park, it is home to a collection of decorative arts and has been for more than two centuries. Architect John F. Staub designed Bayou Bend in the 18th century. The home is made in Spanish stucco with wrought iron accents that is really a site to see. Also on location is the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor and Education Center. This two-story house offers a library, retail store, and offices. Miss Ima Hogg, an avid art collector, once said that it was her dream for Bayou Bend “to serve as a bridge to bring us closer to the heart of American heritage which unites us.” Fan of the Fine Arts Come visit the Rienzi Museum in Houston. About three miles from Houston's downtown, The Rienzi is situated on over four acres of wooded gardens. It was designed in 1952 and opened to the public in 1999. Reservations need to be made in order to tour and they fill up quickly so you should book in advance. Admission is extremely affordable and under $10. Discount pricing applies for groups of 10 or more. It houses European decorative arts and paintings and features art from the neoclassical period. Whatever it is that you are looking to do while visiting Houston, there is surely something that would fit into your day. Don't forget to stop in and visit Russell & Smith Mazda, shop our showroom, talk with our sales staff, and schedule a test drive. Image via Flickr by Limping Frog Productions | CC BY 2.0.

Russell and Smith Mazda is proud to offer you the innovative Skyactive-X engine and ignition system in the 2019 Mazda-3. The next generation comes equipped with this attention-demanding engine. Mazda built a homogeneous charge compression ignition gasoline engine, a mix between a gasoline and diesel engine. In an age where everything is constantly changing and rearranging, Mazda is definitely taking advantage of it. They upgraded one of their most popular cars with more power, safer power, and greater fuel efficiency. You can get all of this in the Mazda 3. Mazda has once again innovated ahead of the competition, bringing to life an engine technology that other auto manufacturers have only dreamed about. X Marks the Spot The Skyactive-X engine is an engineering marvel. The HCCI engine combusts ultra-lean gasoline, mixing it with air to generate combustion. This type of engine uses high compression ratios to achieve ignition without spark plugs. The engine requires fine control over the air and fuel mixtures as well as the temperatures inside the cylinders. This leads to a transition between lean compression ignition and richer spark ignition. Mazda can now achieve compression ignition using a spark plug as combustion control. more Don't Knock the Knocking Usually, knocking means a major mechanical issue and a major headache when it comes to engines. However, Mazda's latest engine proves that knocking for them is a sign of innovation. The audible side effect of knocking has been eliminated and redesigned to harness the power yielded from combustion without causing damage to the ignition. Popular Mechanics says, “Knock is the result of an ultra-lean fuel ratio.” It Runs like Any Other Engine Mazda has tried to build the ideal engine, the envy of all other automakers. They have come closer than ever before with the new Skyactive-X engine. While it does have some differences, it still runs like any other engine, delivering a smooth and powerful ride. The triple rotor engine was innovative when it first came out on the market, and Mazda is now repeating this innovation. With a super lean supercharger, the car is highly fuel efficient. The car is supercharged not for horsepower but for said efficiency. The supercharger can provide peak power without sacrificing the great fuel economy that Mazda has become known for. Affordability Russell and Smith Mazda has amazing new car deals on the new 2019 Mazda 3. The Touring Base Model can be bought for only $19,901. Additionally, with current offers on customer cash for every buyer and rebates, this brings the car down from $22,235. No need to go broke trying to get a new innovative car. You can get one for an extremely reasonable price today! Stop on by and see how Mazda innovates again with the Skyactive-X Engine. We understand you want to see it to believe it, and invite you to do just that. Stop into Russell & Smith Mazda today, check out our impressive showroom, talk with our friendly sales team, and take a test drive. Image via mazdausa.com.

In a category that continues to grow larger every year, small sport utility vehicles and crossovers have increased in popularity among new car buyers. Auto manufacturers have added more choices in this class as consumers continue to want the flexibility, utility, and fuel efficiency these vehicles offer. While it would be easy to spend a significant amount on a well-equipped vehicle in this class, the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Sport demonstrates you can get a lot without breaking the bank. Learn more about the impressive features the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Sport has to offer. Power and Performance The Mazda CX-3 Sport has a very capable engine, providing both excellent fuel efficiency as well as power. The CX-3's 2.0-liter V-4 engine produces an impressive 148 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. It has an EPA estimated 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, allowing you to travel great distances between fill-ups, saving you both time and money at the gas pump. Additionally, the CX-3's engine comes equipped with the SKYACTIV drive six-speed automatic transmission. more Comfortable Seating The five-passenger CX-3 Sport offers a variety of interior comfort and seating features. The stylish, cloth-trimmed Sport seats are both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Both the front and rear seating have center armrests, and the front seating area also provides additional storage space. The CX-3 Sport offers a six-way manual driver's seat with split folding rear seats. For parents wanting to keep their children safe at all times, the Mazda CX-3 provides LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children). Entertainment Technology There is no doubt that the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Sport offers numerous technology features that are not usually found on an SUV or crossover with such an affordable starting price. The MAZDA CONNECT Infotainment System is loaded with many convenience and entertainment features, including SMS text message audio delivery and reply. Also found on the Infotainment system is a seven-inch full-color touch screen display. The display screen is connected to the Sport's rearview camera which provides assistance when backing up and parking. The CX-3 Sport also allows you to use your portable devices easily in the vehicle by providing driver and passengers with an auxiliary-audio input jack, USB audio input, and a 12-volt power outlet. Safety Features Even though the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Sport is an affordable compact SUV, that does not mean it is lacking in safety features. The CX-3 is equipped with advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and side-impact air curtains. The CX-3 Sport also has Smart City Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Providing security for your vehicle is not overlooked either as the CX-3 Sport has an engine immobilizer anti-theft system. After reading about the many impressive technology and safety features of the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Sport, you might be wondering where you can go to test drive this vehicle to experience these features for yourself. Call Russell & Smith Mazda today to learn more about this excellent vehicle, or stop by to schedule your test drive. One of our sales consultants would be happy to help you find a vehicle that will fit your exact driving needs. Image via mazdausa.com.