[Marcus Stenzel]

Hello. I'm new here and am considering a Niro PHEV. My interest has been growing in the car, but I have a concern after reading a Car & Driver review: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-kia-niro-plug-in-hybrid-test-review

Under the section with the heading EV Rider, the reviewer notes that the Niro's engine kicks on quite frequently, specifically when using climate controls.

So my question for current owners: Has anyone noticed the issue of the engine kicking on more frequently than you'd hoped? I have my A/C on very frequently (often on lowest setting just to help with stale air) and am worried that the Niro may not be for me if it's going to drop a lot of MPGs with my A/C usage.

Thanks.

 

[cockedandglocked]

Hello. I'm new here and am considering a Niro PHEV. My interest has been growing in the car, but I have a concern after reading a Car & Driver review: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-kia-niro-plug-in-hybrid-test-review

Under the section with the heading EV Rider, the reviewer notes that the Niro's engine kicks on quite frequently, specifically when using climate controls.

So my question for current owners: Has anyone noticed the issue of the engine kicking on more frequently than you'd hoped? I have my A/C on very frequently (often on lowest setting just to help with stale air) and am worried that the Niro may not be for me if it's going to drop a lot of MPGs with my A/C usage.

Thanks.

The A/C is all-electric, so it only kicks on if the PHEV battery is running low.


The problem is the heater - it uses engine heat to warm the cabin, so it will run the gas engine until it gets hot enough to do so, even in EV mode.


That said, it has had a negligible effect on my MPG. I still get 60-70mph with my PHEV, only plugging it in 2-3 times a week.


The article is blowing the issue way out of proportion.

 

[Marcus Stenzel]

Thank you. Perfect answer. I live in southern California and almost never use a heater.