Archive for October, 2017

What’s the Difference Between Automatic Transmission and CVT?

Thursday, October 26th, 2017
old mercedes car front exterior driving down road

Automatic Transmission vs Continuously Variable Transmission

The general understanding of most drivers is that you have two choices when it comes to the transmission in your vehicle. The differences between those two are obvious, in that one of them requires the driver to personally switch gears themselves. However, in recent years, many car models have begun adopting a continuously variable transmission system. While it is also a variation on automatic transmission, what it is the difference between them? Read more for an automatic transmission vs continuously variable transmission comparison.  (more…)

What is the difference between all-wheel and 4×4 drive?

Wednesday, October 25th, 2017
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee among rocks with the words What is the difference between all-wheel and 4x4 drive?

While we’ve already tackled the differences and advantages of rear-wheel drive vs front-wheel drive, today we want to look at something a little different. While most cars on the road (and the majority of vehicles in our used vehicle inventory here at Third Coast Auto Group) are two-wheel drive models, drivetrains that send power to more than two wheels have plenty of positives, especially in bad weather or rough terrain. What is the difference between all-wheel and 4×4 drive? Keep reading for a few highlights. (more…)

What’s the difference between Chevy and GMC brands?

Tuesday, October 17th, 2017
Comparison image showing the grilles of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra

When you go looking for a truck or crossover vehicle, you may come across plenty of Chevrolet and GMC models. Both of these brands exist under the umbrella of GM (General Motors) along with Buick and Cadillac. Moreover, if you compare similar models in these two brands (for example, the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra light-duty, full-size trucks) then the mechanical similarities are huge. Are they really the same vehicle with different branding? What’s the difference between Chevy and GMC brands? Learn more in this blog. (more…)

Halloween Events 2017 for Kids and Parents in Austin TX

Thursday, October 12th, 2017
Halloween Events 2017 for Kids and Parents in Austin TX

Looking for something fun to do this October? This selection of Halloween events 2017 for kids and parents in Austin TX may offer exactly what you are looking for. From one-shot events to opportunities that happen all month, one of the events below is bound to pique your interest this holiday. (more…)

What car companies are supporting Hurricane Harvey relief?

Friday, October 6th, 2017

After a huge natural disaster like Hurricane Harvey, many companies large and small pitch in to help communities get back on their feet. Some of the largest companies in the nation are in the auto industry, and these businesses and brands are also chipping in to help Houston recover from the extensive flooding and damage left in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. What car companies are supporting Hurricane Harvey relief? Most companies with a large presence in the USA are chipping in to help Houston. (more…)

Basic Fall Car Care Tips

Monday, October 2nd, 2017
How should I get my car ready for winter?

While here in Austin we aren’t going to get the intense ice and snow you can see in the northern part of the country, fall still marks the changing of the seasons, and the slow transition into winter. Regular car maintenance can be important all the time, but when it changes from summer to fall is a great time to take a little more care. Following a few basic fall car care tips is a great way to extend the life of your vehicle, If you are wondering “How should I get my car ready for winter?”, check out our overview below. (more…)