The "Crossover" With A Plug | 2020 Kia Niro PHEV

Let's be real, the Niro is really a pregnant hatchback rather than a crossover, but that doesn't make it any less of a winner if you're looking for a practical vehicle with high efficiency, plenty of cargo room, a long warranty and of course: a plug. For 2020 the Niro PHEV gets the same tweaks as the rest of the Niro lineup with sharper looks and bigger LCDs but the basics of the vehicle remain the same so if you weren't into the Niro before, 2020 probably won't change your mind.
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[@hulong0205]

I like how Alex's idea of "build more greener cars with limited numbers of battery = More enviornmental friendly, than building fewer full EVs". and I appreciate he repeats it each time when introduce a plug-in hybrid vehicle. 4

[@nc3826]

except that increasing battery output (and the growing network of fast charger).... makes the idea dated and counterproductive now....

[@ScramJett]

I think Alex makes a great point. They are the penultimate vehicle for transportation electrification. It’s a better use of limited battery supply until production matures, and it helps people transition by getting used to plugging in but still having gas a back up. Until public charging is wide spread and ubiquitous (for non-Tesla owners) it’s the best option IMHO.

[@ScramJett]

N C I respectfully disagree. If you are a Tesla owner in California or Europe, then you might have a point. But quick charges are not wide spread and ubiquitous. I’d be terrified of driving anything other than a Tesla more than 100 miles. Quick chargers for non-Tesla’s are hard to find, don’t work half the time, and use a menagerie of networks that require membership or calling 800 numbers. I mean imagine if you had to call some operator every time you needed to get gas?! That’s what quick charging is like. Until quick charging is as easy as getting gas (not as fast, but as easy... I’m ok with 30 to 45 minutes of charging every 200-300 miles), you’ll not see wide spread use of long range EVs. Worse, people might rebel and set electrification back by a decade or more.

[@ScramJett]

N C Btw, finding Level 2 “destination chargers” is also a challenge. You’d think that a place like L.A. would have chargers everywhere, but finding a charger for my Pacifica hybrid is an exercise in frustration when visiting my in-laws in L.A.

[@nc3826]

Jeff D if someone is terrified to drive 100 miles in any car with a normal average range of 300 mile .... the problem is not with the car, its with the buyer, (who needs meds for anxiety)....and it's silly to reference Tesla like fanboy when this was about the Niro .... but ofc buy what suits your own personal needs, is my point.... even if you have anxiety issues... While Alex is arguing against any BEVs.... Based Plugins being more efficient way to allocate the current battery supply.... But that sends the wrong signals to automaker who are exponentially increasing the battery supply... So it about Econ 101 and price signaling...

[@KitPogi]

Love my 2020 Niro PHEV... gas up once a month! That's insane! And I work everyday 40 miles 2 way. Alex! Always great when reviewing vehicles. Always so detailed.

[@jmymlr]

I own a 2019 Niro PHEV and love it. Zero regrets trading my 3-series wagon for it. TON of standard features. Near luxury car smooth in EV mode. My commute (back in the before time when I went to the office) is 14mi round trip, so I could easily go 3 months on a tank of gas. Two complaints. 1) Low speed transmission response. Highway speeds, it's fine, but when the gas engine comes on at low speeds, you know it. The transmission scrambles to accommodate it. To mitigate, I make sure to use the EV/HEV mode selector button Alex shows next to the shifter while on the highway and save the battery for low speeds. 2) I make 2-3 trips a year across the Western PA mountains. It struggles on some of those hills. As often as I make the trip, I couldn't care less, but if you lived in Colorado, I could see it being an issue.

[@khnns4121]

buy volk eco drive gear or ze40 or ce28n or te37 or ssr type and solve these low power engine with torque lag.

[@CandycaneBeyond]

I'm wondering if it's genuinely struggling, or your not used to the type of motor and what it's doing. My Prius Prime sounds like it's growling when I punch my gas peddle. Also switching from electric to gas engine is noisier and more vibration than electric.

[@jmymlr]

@@CandycaneBeyond By struggling, I mean it downshifts twice and still can barely maintain speed.

[@Dan-xm1og]

I've had my 2019 Niro PHEV for almost 17 months now, and it has been fantastic. I track MPG and power usage closely, and can state that the PHEV exceeds the EPA in both electric range and MPG when driving as a hybrid. I get 30 EV miles without any special effort, and that's with the HVAC on. 34 miles has been my best, again with the A/C on. I've taken a freeway trip from Seattle to Ellensburg and back (over a 3000' mountain pass each way), about 130 miles each way. Using the manual control, I use EV while in town and switch to hybrid or sport mode on the freeway. My round trip is usually about 62 MPG on the dash, so more like 60 MPG actual. I did cross shop the Clarity, and dismissed it for several reasons. The infotainment system has zero EV information. There is no charge indicator anywhere on the display to tell you the state of charge or time remaining. There's a small light near the power connection on the fender, that was it. When the engine fired, it was horrendously loud, partially because of the CVT. As long as the battery was charged, and you could drive EV, yes it was nice. The passthrough between the truck and rear seating area was severely restricted on the size and anything that could go in. I was looking at a possible cross country trip for a work detail, and there was no way I could carry something like a flat screen TV with me, because the opening was too small. I find the regen braking to be outstanding. I can never tell if/when the mechanical brakes take over from the regen. Since the '19 does not have the stop/start adaptive cruise like the '20 does, I always have to do the final braking when coming to a stop. I traded a 2018 Outback 3.6R for the Niro, and don't regret it at all. I have calculated that my total fuel bill (gas and electricity) is only about 20% of what I was spending with the Outback. Couple that with a monthly payment almost $200 per month lower, I'm saving about $3600 per year over the Sube.

[@doncoffin849]

I enjoyed reading your reply. You mentioned mileage with the A/C on. Are you able to be in EV mode with the A/C on? I had read that with the heater on, you can only be in hybrid mode. It would be a big negative for me if the A/C also required the motor to be running. Where I live I use the A/C on most of the year.

[@khnns4121]

@@doncoffin849 i am sure prius prime was EV with AC or heater .drove 85 to 90mph with 57 mpg in hybrid mode or 65 mpg in 70mph with zero charge last night. going to EV mode always in 80+ mph with gentle pressure in pedal with zero charge last night .I was shock with zero notice of engine on or off during drive .big improvement from prius v powertrain and come with 2 step low beam.

[@doncoffin849]

kh nns Thanks for the information. I’m driving a 2013 Prius V now. Really wanted a RAV4 prime but it will be too long until they’re available in the Southeast. So the Prius prime was my next choice. But still looking at Kia and Hyundai PHEV.

[@braedengates3123]

I have been driving mine for about a year and I can confirm that when you use the heater the engine turns on but doesn’t propel the vehicle. This still uses gas but it seems that its only for the heat and not moving the vehicle. The RPM when moving the car is higher than when it is on for the heat. I also have gotten 35 miles on a charge with a/c on and it was all city driving. When on the highway ill average 28-30 miles EV. Great car, I traded my Niro hybrid for the PHEV version. Best car I have owned.

[@kretonslovechild7999]

Excellent job Alex! This is by far the most informative Niro PHEV review I've seen. I've had my 2020 Niro PHEV for almost 9 months now and absolutely love it! While I've only logged a little over 3,400 miles in that time, I've only bought $44.63 in gas, so as Alex noted, a PHEV can be the ideal solution if most of your driving is about 30 miles or less per day since you can essentially operate it like a full EV, while not having range anxiety or worrying about finding a charging station on longer trips. I typically get 29-32 miles on a charge, and when driving in HEV mode I typically get 50+ mpg, which beats the EPA estimate. It also rides quite nicely, and while the engine can feel a little coarse at low speed in HEV mode, on the highway it's surprisingly quiet in either EV or HEV mode. It also seems like a well built car, with virtually no rattles or squeaks at this point. And while acceleration in EV mode is quite slow as pointed out, it's actually quite fun in Sport mode, which automatically engages the engine too. Having the ability to manually shift can be nice for certain situations like ice or snow, as well as giving a sporty feel. Really, my only gripe so far is that for some reason, the entry-level LXS trim which I have doesn't have a garage door opener. This seems odd given that my previous car, a 2010 Subaru Forester base model, did have a garage door opener. Still, my Niro has an impressive suite of driver assist and safety features, as well as a nice infotainment system. I also think the interior looks a little more refined than you might expect, and my 6'1" son has ample leg and head room when sitting in the back behind me (I'm 6'). Prior to leasing my Niro, I also looked at the Ioniq but in the end I went with the Niro due to its roominess and additional cargo capacity its crossover styling provides. Also, in my area the Niro and Ioniq were more closely priced than the figures Alex gave, with the Niro costing about $2,700 more for than its Ioniq counterpart. I think the Niro's body style makes it one of the most under rated cars out there versatility-wise, and I appreciate that Kia opted for more conservative styling rather than going with all the angles and creases that so many cars have. One important thing to note that I wasn't aware of until after I leased mine is that the federal tax rebate only applies if you purchase the car. However, I live in Texas and was still able to get a $2500 rebate, so perhaps other states offer similar programs to those who lease PHEVs. At the end of the day though, the regular hybrid Niro would've been a bit cheaper for me cost of ownership-wise over 36 months. But I'd be missing out on the cool TIE fighter sound the PHEV makes when decelerating at lower speeds, and its nice to know the tail pipe emissions are lower.

[@user-ss3ud7pp7f]

Can you give us a little more detail of why you like it?

[@thisisntsergio1352]

I always love Alex's reviews. So informative.

[@theexmann]

i also wonder if he is pulling the information off the top of his head because it doesn't seem like he's reading a script. But it's a lot of very useful information. I don't know how he does it.

[@grecopena]

Consistently the most thoughtful car review, and Alex gives us similar car comparisons at the end to consider. Very professional. A +

[@jackfishcampbell6745]

My wife and I have been driving a 19 niro touring here in Canada top trim. Its by far the best car we've owned it gets almost double the gas mileage of our previous car . We changed the 18inch tires to 16 inch it now has a smoother ride and better economy.

[@Jaymac720]

I really wish people would stop hating on PHEVs. They're so much more sensible than BEVs. As you said, batteries are a limited commodity. Spreading them out among several hybrid or PHEV vehicles instead of jamming them into one BEV can save so much more gas. People just don't even consider gas reduction instead of 0 gas. As you said in a previous video, efficiency just isn't sexy. A Tesla is more of a statement than anything else. True, a full BEV works for some people but not everyone, and it's not as amazingly green as everyone thinks.

[@wzDH106]

There's absolutely nothing wrong with PHEVs, but the "greener" argument is quite subjective. A PHEV will have the manufacturing emissions of the gasoline engine and support equipment in addition to a larger battery with a larger carbon manufacturing footprint over a base hybrid. The problem with PHEVs is the flexibility. Carbon payback will occur rapidly if the operator plugs in regularly and operates the vehicle in EV mode more regularly. If the operator chooses to avoid the plug then the PHEV becomes a significant carbon costly vehicle, using a large battery that's not utilized, while performing less efficiently over the straight Hybrid counterpart. The Hybrid and BEV eliminates this flexibility, minimizing manufacturing and operating emissions in the role they were designed for.

[@nvn2005]

I compare PHEV like a top tier experienced backup QB that you can start him for a season until you can draft a really good and affordable QB (BEV)

[@davidmccarthy6061]

I've recommended PHEV to my daughter simply because young kids end up in apartments, etc. for years and have no place to charge until the infrastructure builds out. With this she can run battery for the short drives to work and errands, yet can take a long road trip at any time.

[@Joesolo13]

I think you summed it up well for the most part. For those with multiple cars I think a BEV is a fine choice, but PHEVs are really excellent all-arounders. Models like the late-Volt with 50+ miles of battery range functionally are BEVs for most purposes, with the range extender for everything beyond, and can easily be your one car.

[@liverlip]

I have had my 2020 Kia Niro PHEV for about 9 weeks now. It is perfect for my needs. I do not travel far. I did not get gas until the 5th week and the car was delivered to me with only 3/4 tank. I do wish it had a few more miles of all electric range (about 5 more miles and I would never use the gas) and a bit more horsepower. But I am happy with it. And with the Federal and State rebates for electric vehicles, and Kia’s rebate, the price dropped over $10,000.

[@stuartevans4899]

it sounds like an EV would have been the right choice. ;-)

[@midifool99]

I've been driving my 2020 Niro PHEV for a little over a month and love it. I was surprised to learn in this video that the battery is air cooled. I thought it was liquid cooled! Glad I'm only leasing for 3 years. The paddles DO change the regen braking level, at least, when NOT in Sport mode. I haven't figured out how to use Sport mode yet. The left paddle increases the braking from 0 up to level 3. The right paddle decreases. I wish they were swapped. I think of left as down, and right as up.

[@brycebensing]

I think the paddle for regen is like that to simulate engine braking. Where you downshift with the left paddle and the vehicle will naturally slow down. Without using brakes

[@frosty3579]

I appreciate that you show the relative stats to other similar vehicles. Makes comparing so much easier!

[@singhcertain]

love the way you compare your cars with the competition. Give the viewers a lot of info..cheers from india

[@jimmysperandio4737]

l have had my 2020 Niro PHEV SX Touring for 16 months and was the best deal l have done. Incredible car for fuel efficiency, in B.C. one month, gas up 30 km. to work and home, do $35.00 depending on liter price a month. Charging at level 2 is great, best car l have ever had, excellent review on car Alex.

[@Goku-mr2jw]

Who can dislike Alex's videos?! How dare you!😡

[@Hans-gb4mv]

If you want, I can try. I'm certain it'll work...

[@nc3826]

To dislike Alex on Autos, is to dislike facts.... ok even Alex makes factual errors. but it's so rare its statistically insignificant, so refer back to my original statement....

[@ronaldmail00]

Some folks can't handle lots of info. Or just hate cars or Kia's. Probably a Bot in there as well.

[@Lloydintheflow]

Excellent review Alex, I couldn't help but to subscribe to your channel, you cover all the important keys, thanks.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

This will be my dream vehicle to buy Alex.

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

I have a '17 Niro EX. I just turned 70k miles. I used it for rideshare prior to Covid. I get 57.9 mpg in Seattle style traffic. When I'm in bumper to bumper I get over 60 mpg. My original tires filled to 40 psi still have 40% left. My brakes are still 60%. No warranty issues, a couple of recalls. This is one of the best cars I have ever had. I usually change cars every 2-3 years. I have no desire to do that with this car. Favorite feature is adaptive cruise control. Buy one..

[@theexmann]

Your videos are continually getting better and better. Very impressed with the production quality, and the information is always very useful and informative. I have a 2004 Prius so after 16 years and 272,000 miles I'm ready for a new car. I first waited for the Prius Prime but was disappointed. Then waited for the Ioniq plug-in but it was hard to get to the point of waiting for the 2020 version because I liked the upgrades to it. Then I saw the 2021 Rav4 Prime and it had everything except a good price point, but i was willing to get it fully loaded, but that car is almost impossible to get right now. Now I'm leaning back to the Ioniq, but might wait a little longer for the upcoming full EV Ioniq 5. Because of the pandemic, I haven't been driving my Prius much at all. I had half a tank in March and only needed to put gas in it last week so six months to use up not quite half a tank. I can wait another six months at this point. Any early thoughts on the upcoming Ioniq 5?

[@06Trdrew11]

Just found this channel. Last week end I test drove the Ioniq SE then drove the Niro LXS Hybrid models for comparison (2020 models. End of year sales in 2021) I ended up going with the Niro. For me at the end of the day, practicality of using the roof racks for surfboards and the rear hatch provided to me more storage (height wise) was really enough to make the decision over the Ioniq. I enjoyed the Ioniq drive, the way the car presented itself in the infotainment area, seats were heated both front and rear. The Niro LXS does not have heated seats. At the end of the day I can live with less features than practicality for every day use living in Sothern California the heated seats is not that important. Thanks again for the realistic reviews. Niro was 6k off MSRP

[@jamesf791]

I own a 2019 Kia Niro EX hybrid. Funny as I was looking for a PHEV, but got this because even though it was a year old model, it was on the dealers lot for over a year and they were trying to get rid of it and paid $8,000 off the MSRP. I actually really enjoy it. I am obviously not using it for quick speed. I would recommend not using the sports mode unless you are merging onto the expressway. It's very roomy, especially with leg and head space, but wish the trunk had more space. I love how I can beat the average mpg. Though I am not on the highway much, I have found I get about 53 mpg. What's great for me as well is it helps with the aggressive driving. I am not trying to sound smug, but not going to the gas station helps. Save money and time.

[@garethjones5733]

Hey Alex, great idea having a comparison list on the bottom left of the screen. This channel just gets better and better!

[@theexmann]

Indeed, that's a very good addition. His videos are always improving.

[@alliejr]

Alex, your point about global impact of PHEV vs. EV is SPOT ON EXCELLENT!

[@stuartevans4899]

I believe his caveat was compared to an EV with a massive battery - not all EVs. While I do appreciate not having to charge every day, a typical EV does not really need a >500km range. That really is for when long trips are routine. Buying a car with two propulsion systems is really a solution looking for a problem, and completely impractical over the long term (who will want a PHEV in 10 years?).

[@Joesolo13]

@@stuartevans4899 That's hardly true. There are at least 2 problems it finds and solves. One, the cost and availability of battery cells. Tesla's production is largely limited by how many cells it and supplies can produce. Two is actually demonstrated in your comment, longer trips.

[@Joesolo13]

​@@stuartevans4899 For the cells used in one Model X, you could produce 5 with a range extender while still covering the average person's daily commute with range to spare. There's also no fast-charging concern. As for "who will want a phev in 10 years", that's a bit of a spurious question. We don't live in 2031, we live in 2021. Most people only keep a car about 6 years. Many will have gone through 2 by that time. Hopefully by then battery tech will be at a place where a small battery(possibly graphene based) will give inexpensive cars 400 miles of range and be fully charged in the time it takes to eat lunch. But until then, we live with what we have, and a small gas motor in conjunction with 50-60 miles of electric range would significantly reduce most people's gas consumption.

[@ronaldmail00]

I agree with you on your stance on the ioniq at the very end of the video. It just makes sense and it's very economical and cheap. But boy do I love the Clarity's soft and quiet luxury ride. 😎

[@dennisstafford7801]

Excellent analysis Alex, very helpful!

[@husker_nation]

I own a 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and looking to upgrade soon. I like this design, but I wish they could come out with a dual-motor AWD version of this vehicle. Or possibly come out with a Kia Sportage Hybrid dual-motor with AWD. Great video Alex!

[@hardyk2010]

I'd be greatly excited for the next generation Niro! The Hyundai Kia conglomerate is doing wonders!!

[@eddy963850]

This channel is amazing. What a great breakdown on everything. Love the trim breakdown. Those are usually such a pain to compare.

[@greggardner8038]

Watching this the day after buying the Niro plugin hybrid EX. Lol

[@ALMX5DP]

I think in the next 5-10 years PHEVs will be increasingly popular (unless breakthroughs in battery tech enables pure EVs to be more readily accessible and versatile).

[@stuartevans4899]

EV price parity is said to be coming in a couple of years.

[@nc3826]

Current PHEVs are all ready losing market share to longer range BEVs... Google it.... So PHEVs or Range Extended EVs will shift to being used in specialty vehicles such as for towing.... where a BEV battery pack would have to be excessively large.... And the Range Extender will shift away from using an ICE/generator to cleaner options such as a Fuel Cells over time....

[@ALMX5DP]

@@stuartevans4899 it definitely could (and would also help bring down PHEV costs as well) and is a major hurdle, but is just one of the variables necessary for more widespread adoption.

[@ALMX5DP]

@@nc3826 Not sure what that has to do with what I said. Only 10 years ago (to my knowledge) there were 0% mainstream PHEVs on the market, now quite a few manufacturers are investing in such designs. Only time will tell what the atmosphere looks like going forward.

[@nc3826]

@@ALMX5DP Not sure what that has to do with what I said. Only 10 years ago (to my knowledge) there were 0% mainstream BEVs on the market, now quite a few manufacturers are investing in such designs. Since what really matter is the "PHEVs are already losing market share to longer range BEVs..." but it's all good since on SM we are free to rationalize what really matter to make us feel better, Sir...

[@james2042]

If you want amber turn signals you can likely mod it on this since they're seperate from the actual brake lights and tail lights.

[@llewrek]

Liking the new intro tone!

[@MrAjo1978]

Great review 😊

[@timdsd]

The Niro PHEV looks like a good replacement for my 2012 Prius plug-in, but I think I'll wait to see if the slightly larger 2022 Sportage and 2022 Hyundai Tucson are offered with a PHEV option. Or just skip another PHEV and go for a VW ID.4 or IONIQ 5. All are larger than the Niro, but still pretty compact.

[@rustbeltrobclassic2512]

Subscribe.. Great review.. I would only ask, if you could, when you drive these SUV's can you put the back seats down, and measure from the hatch to the back of a seat that's pushed all the way back on the track? I can't find any reviews with that info, and some of us want to use these more efficient vehicles to run to home depot on occasion.

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

BOOM. Brilliant analysis.

[@ThanatosDMC]

Waiting for you to review Nissan's E-power with the new Kicks and whatever else they have with e-power.

[@rose415]

How tall is Alex? Great videos

[@jamesmerkel9442]

The rear bs seats in non hybrid fold into floor but in hybrids the heavy battery is back there over rear axle in the floor, when I make cars.

[@user-ss3ud7pp7f]

Good common sense reviews as always. I have one of these and I love it.

[@perryberk2090]

How does the hvac work in EV mode?

[@jacob.m.deem_md]

@13:47 They actually are regenerative braking paddles. You get three levels of regen braking. Super convenient.

[@markmiller3279]

My one big problem with the Ioniq plug-in is that its battery pushes the load floor up too much for a vehicle that already had a shallow trunk. If you deliver pizzas that might be perfect, but not if you ever carry luggage or boxy stuff. The Niro, with its taller, boxier shape doesn't have the same problem, and would be more realistic for a single-vehicle household. If all you needed was a commuter car either the Ioniq PHEV or the Prius Prime would be excellent, though I much prefer the Hyundai's styling. Toyota designers seem to have been struck blind.

[@kevinlj182]

I agree, 100 Alex. I have a 2018 Ioniq SEL hybrid and my only two regrets are not purchasing the plug-in version and buying the limited trim. I agree with what others say that it sometimes has clunky shifting, but my previous car was the notoriously terribly shifting 6 speed DCT 2012 Ford Focus, so enough said. As long as I don't get stranded on the highway again for a couple hours and with a rental for three weeks, I would say the complaint is moot for me.

[@MikeStoddart]

It doesn't have buttons to charge the battery or save the current charge?

[@keith6743]

Great info... got me looking at this instead of a mini countryman

[@MikeStoddart]

How much would the economy figures be affected if the engine wasn't on the Atkinson cycle?

[@tobi615]

Kia niro or ford kuga Phev? Wish to buy?

[@runforit420]

How would this car compare with the Audi A3 e-tron?

[@justsaybobby]

17:46 I think I felt this on the test drive. It felt very jerky when braking and accelerating which was very noticeable. Maybe not a deal breaker…?

[@samcat2000]

Can anyone comment on how their Niro PHEV handles on snow (4"-10"-ish)? I'm looking at the Niro and live in CO so want to be mindful of handling on snow. (I am in a 2011 Optima which does pretty well til we get more than 9-10"...this is on more flats than foothills).

[@dretech]

I own 2018 Niro PHEV - Alex, did you put sport mode for 0-60? Bjorn dislikes the Niro PHEV and I have to agree that the hybrid mode is jerky due to to DCT. But, when you need more power, the sport mode really helps a lot. And sport mode helps charging the battery faster as well.

[@blueflamingo2267]

Has anyone done a long trip (FL to ME)? How did it do?

[@petegalindez9961]

Alex. Great review. In the market for a sub compact for my kids to drive. Was shopping Seltos and Cross Trek because PHEVs are few and far between in VA, but my local Kia has these! I test drove today and thought it was very good. Nothing like my TESLA, but not expecting it to. I really like a PHEV that has pure EV capability. Wasn't able to test that as the charge was too low. Will do it again tomorrow. Researching in the meantime. However, are you sure the paddles are for shifting? I tried to shift with them and it did nothing, but did seem to add 3 levels of regen. Left paddle increased regen and the right lessened it...BTW, the Seltos SX Turbo is a fun little car!!

[@petegalindez9961]

To answer my own questions, the paddles on the PHEV are regen paddles when in hybrid or EV mode (The left (-) paddle increases regen to 3 levels, and the right one decreases it). When in Sport mode, they become shifting paddles for the DCT! Very cool...

[@polleyjw]

I’ve test driven a 2020 Niro PHEV and the paddles adjust regeneration level, not shifting. I wish the left one could be used for regenerative breaking, but that would probably require a different transmission. I wasn’t in sport mode, so they may behave differently if you are in sport or eco mode.

[@JT-fq2bl]

You're correct. In EV/Hybrid mode, the paddle shifters allows you to control the regenerative braking. Put the Niro in sport, the regenerative braking deactivates to allows you to fully control the transmission gears.

[@polleyjw]

J T I’m not a fan of controls with different behaviors based on sim mode. That being said, I have a 2019 Niro PHEV and haven’t found Sport mode to be very useful, so I would never have found the other mode.

[@jojibronner8280]

Excited to get the Kia Niro Plug-In EX Premium. My girlfriend and I were thinking on the Kona, Niro, and the Crosstrek hybrid. Overall the Niro was the most practical out of the 3. Didn't get to test drive the Kona because the dealer didn't have a turbo version but the backseats were cramped and my girlfriend didn't like the interior and ride height. It's also the least fuel efficient out of the 3. Crosstrek Hybrid was nice build quality but I don't like the blue accent pieces in the interior and the fact that the trunk space was elevated to fit the battery is really annoying. It also doesn't get significant increase in fuel efficiency for a plug-in hybrid. Niro just ticked all the right boxes. It felt comfortable, rear seats were spacious, and it felt very practical with the hatchback and everything. Fuel efficiency is great.

[@joelbolton7252]

Very competent car, I would buy if in the market.

[@watchalot919]

Interesting, the spec in the UK is very different

[@ronkemperful]

You have a great point that having multiple PHEVs is better for the environment than a single EV. However, in making a purchasing decision it is a bit more complicated when buying a used EV because one has to calculate the total cost of the gasoline engine. Besides maintenance $, which is more, there is the problem of burning off enough gas over a year of use to keep it fresh... for me it would be a problem since 99.5% of my daily trips are less than 10 miles - so I might have problems with rotting gas lines, gunked fuel systems with a PHEV. Great video as always!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

PHEVS are all tuned so you don't really have a worry about that sort of thing. The gas lines will easily last 10+ years whether the engine runs or not but the systems are designed to run the engine at least on occasion to keep other issues from cropping up.

[@tjk9263]

Plus there are products on the market that keep gasoline from turning bad and also clean out your fuel lines and fuel injectors.

[@ronkemperful]

​@@AAutoBuyersGuide Thanks for your reply. One question that lingers for me is I heard that both the Honda Clarity and the Prius Prime will run the ICE during extreme cold temperatures (14 degrees F or colder) to protect the propulsion battery. I wonder if the Kia PHEV would run the engine in this case, or even to simply provide cabin heat even in milder temperatures? Anyway, thanks again for your great videos.

[@stuartevans4899]

Since when is adding any ICE (even if it's in a PHEV) to the global fleet better for the environment? My crystal ball may be wrong, but when battery vehicle become more common, vehicles with ICEs will be worth less and less over time.

[@Glaggle]

@@stuartevans4899 It's not about "adding" ICEs, it's about redistributing the limited supply of batteries to more vehicles. This about it this way: if the average EV driver only uses 10kWh of their 80kWh battery in their daily commute, that's wasted resources that could have otherwise been put into a non-plugin vehicle, like the Niro. It does more to reduce greenhouse emissions to give eight people 10kWh batteries than to give one person 80kWh. Since battery supply and manufacturing costs are currently hindering a lot of EV adoption, it makes more sense to provide a larger number of drivers with a smaller battery pack that covers 95% of their driving needs than to only give a few EV drivers a battery for 100% of their needs. The problem with "when battery vehicles become more common" is that the cost of these massive 100kWh batteries is what is _currently_ hindering widespread adoption of EVs.

[@nevco8774]

Kia Niro PHEV has a better interior fitting, seats, infotainment than Toyota Prius Prime?

[@renaudgiguere7496]

Could you please explain what you mean my a more "upright" driving position? Can't you just recline the seat and have a more reclined driving position? Isn't that why you can adjust the seat?

[@lionintu]

Maybe the seat is higher off the floor

[@HaNguyen-ci4uw]

Why not include the Escape Plugin in the comparison? It starts at $33,500 but it qualifies for a larger tax credit ( much better buy considering the performance, EV range etc)

[@kolt9051]

Alex tends to not put Ford in comparisons...idk why though. Hmm.

[@gondorian1006]

It's included as the segment leader in combined legroom

[@insooleedat1asiandude]

The fusion plug in? Doesn't the escape come only in hybrid

[@gg80108]

Why have folding mirrors when the plug sticks out further then the mirror. Why are the plugs the size of a gas nozzle?

[@TheBMurda]

I love my Honda Clarity, and this car is just not enough electric range to do the trick, especially in winter. The price is not very different here too. I've driven 4000kms on only 12L of gas!

[@Traysandor]

All EVs hate winter weather - it's an inherent issue of any battery in that it just isn't as good when you have to put up with cold temperatures and bad road conditions. The stock tires are made for efficiency - meaning snow tires will 100% be required if you live in or expect to drive to a place where it snows.

[@nevco8774]

I still belive PHEVs can be divided in 2 groups: 1. Compromised vehicles with short pure EV range and/or poor MPG driving on gasoline after depletion of battery.Examples: PHEVs from BMW 2. Noncompromise with longer pure EV range and with good MPG when battery is depleted. Example Toyota RAV4 Prime, Ford Escape PHEV, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid PHEV. Maybe Honda Clarity PHEV with pure EV range more than 30 miles.

[@Joesolo13]

I agree. The Volt was a good example. A car with 40-50 miles of electric range is, for most, a BEV 90% of the time they use it, and it should be an efficient hybrid beyond that Ones with 20 miles is really only a hybrid that you can top off from the grid. Which honestly all hybrids should be able to do, even if only at a slow rate from 110. This is still a useful feature and will save you money, and save on emissions, but with just a slightly larger battery you can cover the majority of people's driving instead of only some of it.

[@nevco8774]

@@Joesolo13 I totally agree with you about Chevrolet Volt but it is available only preown since it was undeservingly discontinued.

[@Hallowsaw]

I have to ask... why in the world does an essentially city car have a dual clutch? Isnt that a bad idea for reliability 10 years down the road?

[@smallmj2886]

I wish that Toyota made a PHEV in this form factor. The Niro is the most practical PHEV that I can find. If that could be combined with the Prius's long term reliability then that would be the perfect car for me. I know that the RAV4 Prime is coming, but it is bigger and WAY more expensive, and the regular RAV4 Hybrid is not very efficient. I want my next car to be either a PHEV or a full EV, but the choices are still pretty limited. Well, maybe my 2014 Camry will last another 5 years and hit 480,000 km without trouble. Then the kids will be out of the house and I won't have to worry about back seat legroom/headroom. At that point something like a Prius Prime or Ioniq EV will be feasible.

[@thelondonbroiler]

My biggest issue is Kia\Hyundai's transmission choice. Most all other automakers (Toyota, Ford, etc) use the eCVT/Planetary Gear which is smoother and whole less complicated (a significantly better track record for reliability).

[@WirableCrown1]

I would have to disagree about reliability. Kia and hyundai make their own transmission in house unlike other brands that outsource theirs. The kia/hyundai transmissions are very reliable and last much longer than any cvt transmission. I must admit I am biased as I have a 2011 kia sportage with 170,000 miles and it runs like a dream. Transmissions fluid was changed at 100,000 and will be changed again at 200,000. They aren't the smoothest I will agree with that haha but they do last.

[@BTC909]

1990 Honda Recall PHEV and yes Benny will be your salesperson.

[@edweagle]

Kinda wish i had look at the ioniq's when i got my elantra a couple years ago

[@CandycaneBeyond]

Can you tow with this plug in?

[@ralstm1]

As for towing, you will not find that Kia-USA encourages or "allows" you to tow with the PHEV version. But in Europe they seem to allow some towing. You can look that up for yourself, if you like. Don't take my word for it. I might have read it wrong. You can get a tow hitch receiver for the straight Hybrind (the non PHEV version) that will fit the PHEV. I have done that installation, and it required a bit of fiddling, but worked out fine. But I am not towing with it. I just wanted to have the hitch receiver there in case I wanted to mount a bicycle carrier, or a rear-mounted cargo rack. I would be concerned about towing very much with the dual-clutch transmission, since the system would be "slipping the clutch" on starting up from a complete stop. Since I prefer to keep the car for its full 10-year warranty period, I am not putting the clutch (or the warranty) at risk. I have a Tesla and a BMW i3 REX, but my 2019 Niro PHEV remains my favorite car.

[@michelferland4204]

Having to deal with snow ,I would prefer the Niro because it has a bigger ground clearance

[@KillroyX99]

Feeling a lurching transmission is a feature not a bug. It's OK, it's always been that way. haha

[@claytonroot806]

Why I would choose the Niro over the Ioniq in spite of the price difference??? Because my wife and I are totally different statures AND we now live in an apartment building featuring a relatively cramped underground parking structure with narrow entry/exit doors and large structural cement posts. Having said that, here are 5 reasons for our choice. #1 Power Folding Mirrors #2 Front Parking Sensors #3 Rear Parking Sensors #4 Memory Seats for the Driver (that different stature issue) and #5 No stupid "Split Rear Window" with a bar running horizontally right in your line of vision. That issue also plagues the Toyota Prius. In fact, I believe THEY invented it. Was stupid then and still is!

[@hwmason530]

Is it unfair to compare against RAV4 Prime?

[@falkin42]

I was wondering about that myself given the 0-60 comparison (which really surprised me because I haven't paid any attention to the RAV4 previously). I guess the price difference is the main reason Alex didn't include it in the final segment? Since the RAV4 doesn't come in a lower end trim to bring the starting price down.

[@jeffruebens8355]

For the same price, the all electric Mini Cooper looks better and is more sporty, but less for seating 4 adults. The Toyota 86 is a lot more sporty, or spending more for a Tesla Model 3 or a Mazda MX-5 convertible.

[@KillroyX99]

Why not a 6 kW charger? I have a 6kW charger in my Zero Motorcycle, its not big.

[@Joesolo13]

How do you like the Zero? I was looking at them back when they first came out but never pulled the trigger and I haven't heard about them in a bit.

[@KillroyX99]

@@Joesolo13 My Zero SR is fast an it fits me well. Faster than most can handle. The simplicity of no clutch and no gear shifting is good for everyone and perhaps it should be considered a safety feature. With the Zero app you can set max speed, max torque, and regeneration braking. Net newer models are even faster and better looking. Negatives are that Zero is a scrappy company and still trying to up their sales. They dont do everything right. Some bikes have had some hard to remove gremlins. I have had some warranties, but I'm very satisfied.

[@normt430]

Honda Clarity is a Chevy Voltec powered!

[@DuesenbergJ]

The PHEV is translational solution. When the battery production catches up EV,s will take over. With that said. Right now it’s a pretty good solution.

[@nc3826]

true, but it's hard to see great BEV (*without a range extender) for towing anytime soon...

[@DuesenbergJ]

N C a novel solution is to put the range extender in the trailer. A German caravan maker is developing a caravan with internal motors and battery. Dethleffs e.home Coco.

[@nc3826]

@@DuesenbergJ FWIW, I just checked Dethleffs URL, it's seems to just be a converted Ford PHEV..... Which seems more practical than Dethleffs creating its own range extender... The difficulty with creating a 'range extender trailer' is how does the power get to the BEV? Rivian is the only EVs that I know of that will have a port designed to accept power input while vehicle is operating.... Since it's designed for an additional battery pack they are calling a "jerry can" and I was thinking and ICE or even stirling engine range extender could be designed for it by 3rd party.... since Rivian just wants to use batteries... As as side note. A Semi EVs would be a great candidate for using a battery pack "range extender cargo container-ship style trailer", then just exchange the Semi and the cargo container with a fully charged trailer. I even thought of easier and cheaper ways, such as roller for switching the containers than using a crane. Strange I have not heard of any company design something like that for long distant trucking, which seems more cost effective then the current plan of using hydrogen?

[@nc3826]

@@Matthias_FischerSo you want to produce inefficient hydrogen... then waste more energy to attach it to carbon? and then do what with it? burn it? and produce pollution... just to increase its energy density for easier storage? btw I did not advocate for the use of Hydrogen. fwiw Diesel (even more so coal tar) is even more energy dense than Gasoline, so why pick Gasoline, as your poison? And It while it could be argued that liquid hydro(gen)carbons are the best current form of energy storage. They have issues, check the below link for a better way to use them. www.intelligentliving.co/nathalie-methanol-fuel-cell-supercar/ With fuel cells being the far more efficient and cleaner vs the alternates, for converting it into a kinetic form of energy. But it's in no way, the 'most efficient' way, to store the cheapest clean source of energy production, like solar and wind... btw pure liquid form? What is an impure liquid form?

[@darniusterix5774]

Own a Clarity, I average 105 MPGe for a sedan it is perfect.

[@braedengates3123]

Great review! Paddle shifters do regen when in eco mode. In sport mode they act as shifters. The clarity is hideous lol. The Ioniq is tiny and for big drivers it’s quite uncomfortable to drive.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

Fun

[@linglongchen5241]

Last year I was on the market for Niro PHEV or Clarity PHEV. I went to see both. Niro is too small, as small as Nissan Leaf, and price is much higher than Clarity. Considering I can get full 7500 tax credit vs around 4500 tax credit for Niro PHEV. So, at the end I purchased Honda Clarity. After tax credit and all CA cash back, it is around $22K OTD, which is cheaper than Honda Accord, Toyota Camry. I heard right now Honda Clarity is offering 4500 cash back. People can get better deal than what I got last year (last year 4K cash back). Honda made big mistake to not make the Clarity like crossover. They could make it slight taller (a couple of inches taller), and back to be flat. Then, it will have much larger cargo space. It is OK to have lower MPG (like 35 MPG), and slightly lower EV range (35-39). If this is the case, the demand would be much higher. They do not need to offer 4-4.5K cash back, many people would be OK to spend 5K more to go with that.

[@niffrig]

I agree they should have used the old Honda Crosstour styling and it would be a winner

[@nevco8774]

Since this vehicle is very efficient it might be called noncompromise one even with a range shorter than 30 miles.

[@kristianhermann5971]

Great review Alex. I'd take the Niro (but I have a dog and prefer the hatch). The Clarity and Prius are just ugly, so no thanks.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I really like the extendable telescopic steering wheel I need that on ppl car bc as it sits tall ppl cant fit in it or see out it. Tilt power seat & further retracting & telescopic steering tilt wheel will help w/everything till I can raise the roof 3" more so they can allow see out. Higher seating in ppl car for all improves trail line of sight so short fuckers like Me 5' 7" benefit from raising roof as well.

[@jackfishcampbell6745]

I'm 5 ft 9 and my wife is 5 ft 3 . We gave 19 touring hev top trim , we both see out fine . Made easier by the memory drivers seat .

[@OldThomMerton]

Plug in comparison, Niro vs Ionic vs Clarity? - Well, the practicality issue knocks the Clarity to the bottom of the list . . . no hatch; the CVT doesn't make my heart sing either. So, Niro vs. Ioniq . . . my ratings (no, I haven't been in either, but I have watched the AonA videos for each 2020 plug-in, twice.) - Utility : Niro; better utility with the 'wagonish' shape, better leg room by the numbers. - Interior : Niro; seems better laid out, and I much prefer the touch-screen integrated into the dash as opposed to the raised touch-screen of the Ionic. - Power : Ioniq; regen paddles, better MPG, acceleration is similar enough to be called a tie. - Handling : Ioniq; better braking, better handling feel, lower with less body lean. - Entry : Niro; I have a bad back and entry height is a thing to me, and the extra height of the Niro 'should' help. - Cost : Ioniq; lower costs at each trim level. - Intangibles : Niro; I like the looks and shape of the Niro better than the sedan look of the Ionic. When the time comes I will certainly drive both . . . but I am leaning Niro for the better utility, the interior and the looks. Cost will be a factor.

[@OldThomMerton]

Update: I have watched a lot of videos all the way back to 2016 as of late and am concentrating on the Ioniq, the Niro and the Volt; I would buy any of those used. I keep coming back to the Niro as my favorite plug-in hybrid due to the upright seating and the taller CUVish shape. Any purchase is still speculation ad has definitely been put off until the car market balloon bursts.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

5-8, 9 ,10 is how they design fighter jet seating mostly for men avg as base seat #. It can tilt & slide back & steering wheel can too but or freaky tall 6ft 6" ass is not going to fit well in every car.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

After 35+mpg & lower fuel cost I'll mandate & octane I'll mandate it doesn't mean that much the improvement is subtle. After 4 sec zero to 60 or so 5secs is grand it really doesn't f-ing matter any more the tenth of a sec. I could just hve better reflexes, & may cause accidents w/younger set.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

stopping distance gets Me jazzed, something we see finally really coming into every day tech modern driver. Bigger rims less wt on rim & more grippy tires & r all weather is what allows bigger brakes & that hurts fuel mpg but after 35ish or so who cares esy call & I'll mandate cheap fuel.

[@mississippiqueen2164]

As of '20 the Clarity has been relegated to "Also Ran", '18's crowd the used car lot all dumped at 30k, '19's are non-existent due to none being sold. In other words- a white elephant.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

Nero the most evil sick bassdard to live rome era name says it all, When u see these falling from sky landing on korean ppl don't say I didn't warn u.

[@anxiousappliance]

an interesting visual, but sadly it's "Niro" not "Nero". sad trombone....

[@nc3826]

Alex, it was very informative as usually. But since your pushing its virtues over its BEV cousin, a side by side comparison would be useful. FWIW your argument that batteries are better allocated to hybrids than BEVs since there are not enough of them. Did make sense 10 yrs ago, but now misses the main point now. That car maker directly and indirectly are increasing battery supply capacity based on the current and future demand for new BEV models. So buying PHEV instead would just send the wrong signal to the automakers. And what still makes the most sense for most ppl anyway, is buy what fits your needs. And increasingly it will be the BEV option that will be the better choice even if they have to put on waitlist to get it.

[@Joesolo13]

50/50. Cells still aren't in abundant supply, though it's not as short as it was. Additionally a lot of hand-wringing EV doubters will accept a PHEV, and that still gets them off of gas most of the time they're driving, which I think is a good thing. There's plenty of demand for pure-EVs, especially if they can get the price on batteries down another 10-20% and start erasing the EV premium cost.

[@nc3826]

@@Joesolo13 I never said PHEV buyer were wrong, just that Alex point of view that BEV buyers should buy a PHEV instead was short sighted... I was just pointing out "price signaling" of buying BEVs will increase the production of batteries more than buying a PHEV.... So my bottom line was buy what fits your needs... Alex was the one telling ppl what they should do... BTW the chip shortage shows that batteries are not the only production issue...

[@KillroyX99]

The Clarity is to ugly to buy, IMHO

[@Hallowsaw]

Its a wagon...

[@punkem733]

Everything I've seen has the PHEV with better mileage, than the regular hybrid.

[@jamesmerkel9442]

I used a battery chain saw charged it 7 times or so to trim some branch out at road for pick up. U would not believ how high the power bill was that month. The only milage mpg u can legally print is how far u can go full electric added onto gas calculated on fill up. That is bc u hve to charge your battery. NOW the car charges as it goes but rate varies & a bill comes to your house for NOW for devil power u should b getting fr free & soon will at a min getting $100 dollar credit for ever more on power bill whether u hve EV or hybrid or not. Each month u spend atleast 100dollars in power u get that in credit. Most likely u will get double the extra range the manufacture says per fill up, but they can't claim that. I am fine w/doubling the amount they say u can go per charge for free & using that added to the fuel milage figuring. Esp if using plug in hybrid. U will get double the range they claim per fill up easy. True milage, this doesn't factor in the monthly credit bc u still get charged for charging. True mpg is what we r after, & double what they figure is pretty good real world combined driving billing 2 times 1 time at pump & other at home hve to count that for NOW per fill up. I can get 1/2 that amount just running higher octane fuel no battery sstem no extra 500devil dead wt lbs by GODly mandate & get clearer air. The cars will b tuned for 89 octane or 93,94,95 if I can get it there & big oil doesn't hve a death wish aim high arab cock suckers.

[@ZlatkoUnger]

As a 2018 PHEV owner, I would recommend everyone to skip on the Kia. The new changes for 2020 don't make it any more appealing.

[@nc3826]

WADR, without giving a reason why... that was pointless....

[@ZlatkoUnger]

@@nc3826 the annoying chime at on and off, the beeps the car makes without letting you know why, over sensitive seat belt sensors, compermised back door opening, small trunk due to the hatch design, slow power USB, annoying engine sound and rumble, back seat comfort and noise, UVO is a joke: takes 10 mins to do any remote function and you have to pay for it after 3 years...

[@clarification007]

@@ZlatkoUnger Ha! Ha! Hi! Hi!

[@ZlatkoUnger]

@@clarification007 not sure what to do with that bit of information

[@midifool99]

I have the 2020 PHEV. While the iPhone app does need some redesign, and it IS slower than I would like, it doesn’t take 10 minutes to send a command to the car. I tried it just now. I opened the app and had the AC running in 23 seconds.

[@adrianciobotaru9595]

7:22: THAT IS A LIE !!! The location of the battery does not give a better weight balance than in the non-plug-in version! The non-plug-in version has the battery under the second row sits, and that si closer to the center of gravity, and that gives a better balance! And, the non-plug-in has more space in the back, and a spare wheel...

[@jimbo5635]

If you want AWD, just get a Subaru

[@adrianciobotaru9595]

the non-hybid vehicle is the best deal! couse you don't have to plug it! not everyone has a house... most europeans live in apartments... and, it is cheaper! about 9000 euros cheaper !