What I've learned after 1000 miles in my Kia Niro PHEV ! | 4K

[@PetrolPed]

Use Discount Code: PETROLPED to get 20% off CarVertical when you click this link... www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?a=PetrolPed&b=1e4c9523&voucher=petrolped

[@timphillips4147]

Tip with the keys as a Kia owner is leave the keys in a pocket or coat pocket and just use the little black button on the door. Takes the key out of the equation as long as it's on your person for entry, engine start/stop and egress.

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks Tim 👍

[@Kinthak]

Also you can turn off the mirrors unfolding when you get close in the settings (they'll open when you unlock if set to auto on the door switch). The doors sometimes not unlocking is annoying, but it does follow a rule. They auto lock when you start driving and auto unlock when you manually enter park. If you don't manually enter park and just turn off the car (which automatically enters park anyway), the doors won't unlock.

[@eddieR-yy3sy]

Renault Scenic been doing that for 14 years! Just keep the Keycard in your pocket. Will disable after 3 or 4 days though.

[@MiaMia-yb7tu]

@@Kinthak i cant find this in settings. how do you do that

[@sargfowler9603]

Glad you like a PHEV. I've had the Leon PHEV since June and we love it! We charge regular and most of our journeys are less than the 30-40 range we get in EV mode. We're on Tomato Energy so a full charge costs 47p overnight. Get your KIA plugged in overnight! The engine rarely fires up and when it does, its smooth and seamless and still gives 55mpg. The newer 2024 Golf/Leon has twice the battery size so will go up to 80 miles on a charge. Probably enough for most people. Just need more free/cheap chargers, as I reckon 40p per kwh is then more expensive than petrol!

[@PetrolPed]

That’s the plan 👍

[@richardbrooker4918]

40p per kWH is a lot cheaper than petrol. Assuming 4miles/kWH equals £4 per 40miles which equates to 88p a litre for petrol.

[@sargfowler9603]

@@richardbrooker4918 4 miles per kwh is optimistic, I've used 3.5 miles. This is roughly £4.50 for 40 miles. My PHEV will easily get 55mpg, so £6 for 55 miles, or £4.36 for 40 miles. It's very useful to make comparisons like this because in a PHEV, you're not sure whether to charge or just use petrol on a journey. I've used a hotel that had free slow charging and obviously used that to get around free and also help my journey back home. Otherwise, I'd never use public chargers unless they were below the break even point.

[@HQBProductions]

Hello Peter! A very fair review of an excellent practical car that does exactly what people need in real world driving. Now a few bits…maybe the doors work like the Puma…that is keyless but opening the drivers door does need me to “ short out” the two parts of the handle using my thumb and fingers. That releases that door but the passenger and rear doors open when I do the same on their handles. Hence open the drivers door, then the other doors and all keyless completely. For the readers….a PHEV works perfectly when charged and the car driven in SAVE mode. That means in my Range Rover Sport, I get every low speed movement in EV and every acceleration starts in EV mode so in town, it runs full EV using regenerated electric and also a little of the Charged battery. I have this week done 481 miles and a lot in EV mode but my 31 mile EV range still had 5 miles left. I recharged in three hours 51 minutes and did another 180 miles on tiny Cornish lanes and mixed running which left me with 22 miles. In petrol terms…it consistently returns 31/32 mpg but corrected to use the free regenerated electric, it actually gives 36/37 mpg or much more. Pure EV…I would like that but again, in Cornwall and last Friday, I found only three charging units to be working and all in use. That is a big area..a pure EV using street charging would be a worry down here. Enough…next stop is that Cayenne…..that is more our sort of PHEV!!!!😱😃😃😃😃 Richard😃😃😃😃😃

[@johnnodge4327]

Cornwall charging can be patchy, with mid Cornwall not far off the A30 being the best. There are 3 open Tesla Superchargers in Cornwall, all close to the A30. I drive a BEV and never worry about charging, but then I have the luxury of home charging. I also drive hundreds of miles in a day, again don't have any issues charging.

[@coltoncleveringa8004]

Sir Pete your the whole reason that I believe one day I may own a Kia brand car. The stingers really have my attention and the telluride seems like a great family suv for a family of my size! A honest good review!

[@PetrolPed]

👊

[@MiaMia-yb7tu]

Here are mine niro Phev 2023 1. Fuel Efficiency: The fuel economy is quite impressive. I’ve never gone over 5.5 liters per 100 km, and it’s usually below 5 liters per 100 km. Very fuel-efficient for everyday use. 2. Outdated USB-A and CarPlay Issues: The USB-A connection for CarPlay feels outdated and is frustratingly unreliable. CarPlay frequently disconnects, which is inconvenient during drives. 3. Uncomfortable Seats: The seats aren’t as comfortable as I’d like. For longer trips, they don’t provide enough support and comfort. 4. Electric Performance: It runs well in electric mode, and the switch between gas and electric is smooth. However, the EV-only range is limited to about 40-50 km, which could be better. 5. Noise at Higher Speeds: At speeds of 125 km/h or above, the car becomes very noisy, especially on rough roads. You can clearly hear tire noise and even small pebbles hitting the undercarriage. 6. Poor Sound Insulation: The sound insulation isn’t great-it never feels quiet inside the cabin. External noises are always present. 7. Outdated Software Interface: The software interface looks a bit dull and lacks customization options. It could use a refresh to feel more modern and user-friendly.

[@chrisi1920]

Good review, Pete. I looked through the comments and maybe can respond to some after about 10,000 miles on my 2024 PHEV EX. 50 mpg is a reasonable highway figure at speed limit travel, a bit less if you push it. My average now is about 125 mpg, lots of plug--in EV driving, short commutes, a couple of holiday road trips (300-400mi) , shopping, etc. Tested interior capacity: space for three golf bags, three push carts and three passengers. The cabin is heated either with the PTC electric heater, fairly fast and/or the gas engine that can be forced on in sport mode. The PTC heater will drain range from the high voltage battery but not sure how much difference it makes. Cabin noise at highway speeds is moderate, some wind and road, easy to hear conversation but makes music difficult to hear clearly. I use bone conducting headphones for music and phone calls. Like you said, road manners are excellent, good traction, decent handling and ride, not sporty but not lacking when merging into highway traffic. Very easy to live with once you figure out the infotainment screen. Navigation system is pretty good.

[@worldofcars_ldn]

When you’re doing a vehicle history check you need a search that checks for unrecorded write offs! It’s not compulsory for insurance companies to register all write offs. So a service that checks salvage auctions is preferable, not sure your recommended service does this, if they do then great but if not one that does is VCheck and they’re a good price!

[@kevinternent7937]

Very informative, many thanks in helping me make a decision between plug-in or self-charge 👍

[@PetrolPed]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bst1623]

I have the fully electric one. You can fit a full-size suitcase under the boot floor (with it in the higher position). Very useful during a few days away... Adults in the front, kids in the back, dog in the boot, no problems.

[@philipmichaelhughes5719]

You can get short USBC to USBC connect cables. The socket for which is just above the mat, should allow phone to lie flat Ped.

[@simonho8723]

Also angled,.so can fit phone in that tray flat

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Right? That seems like the most stupid complaint ever given the cable he was using....

[@PetrolPed]

Yes. I use this multi adapter as I need USB C and Lighting and don’t want 2 cables in the car 👎

[@rickhall19]

@@PetrolPed Well, in that case you causing your own first world problem. Why don't you just treat yourself to a Wireless Adapter for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Plug it in the USB/USB-C socket and hide the Adapter. You can do a review on it, as well!

[@edwardparry4558]

Our daily is a self charging Niro - we think it's great . Comfortable & economic 👍

[@Tailspin80]

It’s a gentle introduction to a car I didn’t know much about, but not much detail on the level of trim, tech etc. that determines big price differences between rival offerings. The Niro PHEV comes in three trim levels for between £35K to £40K but I don’t know which you are testing. I also didn’t learn much about trim levels and materials, infotainment, cameras etc. We are picking up a Lexus NX 350H Premium Plus next week which lists at about £54K with metallic paint but we are getting for £50K cash. Leather power seats, 360 cameras, big screen - generally very luxurious and best of all Japanese so top of the reliability charts. It’s not PHEV because for us it’s just not worth the small saving given all the faff with plugging it in and the extra cost. The question people will be asking is whether it’s worth paying the extra £10K for what is a better car and a better brand.

[@PetrolPed]

There is a specific Niro review on the channel that does that. This car is Level 4.

[@Tailspin80]

@@PetrolPed Ok thanks. I watched the review, particularly the section on trim levels. You talk about some of the interesting bits of tech but don’t mention seat materials, power adjustment etc. I found the Kia website equally frustrating because they don’t appear to give any detail on what goes into levels 3 and 4 over the standard trim level. These spec areas are the ones which competitors such as the XC40, Q3 and Lexus range fight over so it’s hard to see how the Kia fits in, but with a £40K price tag it’s only a little less expensive. I love your channel. I am thinking about getting a Cayman and your review is one of the best. My only criticism is that the videos are not really reviews because you focus 99% on the positives, hardly mention the negatives and don’t compare with competitive offerings.

[@jasonshaw1628]

Great video Pete. I was amazed when you quoted your current mpg as I was expecting a lot lower. They will be excellent value second hand

[@PetrolPed]

Sure will 👍

[@jedoka]

Great to see the pups! Will be good to see your impressions of the EV side of this car when you can get to your charger and do more local trips.

[@PetrolPed]

Will do!

[@alasdairwilson4806]

Looks like a decent car.Very practical and nicely finished inside.Good review.

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks! 👍

[@owenmcdonald5922]

Don't worry about not washing the car. Normally I clean my car regularly. At least once a week. However, with the poor summer weather, the car doesn't stay shinny for very long and as a result my enthusiasm has wained so it's a quick wash at the weekend.

[@PetrolPed]

Great point!

[@davidy7004]

Thank you for posting your long term MPG with no charging involved. Although I guess this is more by accident than design, that 51MPG figure is actually a really useful figure to know, and much more useful than the official WLTP 500 MPG or whatever it is. That's because anyone can use that figure (plus EV range) to work out likely consumption for a longer journey. For instance if we take your measured 51MPG and assumed 30 mile electric range, with a full battery every journey * an 81 mile journey will use 1 gallon of petrol - 81 MPG * a 132 mile journey will use 2 gallons of petrol - 66 MPG * a 183 mile journey will use 3 gallons of petrol - 61 MPG etc. And it's easy enough to figure out points in between. I'm assuming here that the EV mileage and petrol mileage can be added in that simplistic way; maybe there are drive modes which make a slight difference, and over a journey you could possibly improve it slightly, perhaps by using petrol on fast roads and saving the EV mode for the slow stuff? But I bet those 2nd-order effects don't change the average consumption figures much?

[@Bottomburbsburnbums]

I have a previous generation 21’ as a company vehicle - never been plugged in. Newbury to Enfield M4/M25 and always in a hurry (85-90 where possible). 480 miles to a tank. Car says late early 60’s mpg always. On my way home everyday at Reading 50 limit I put it into sport (with cruise control on) and that gets me 11 miles of electric range by the time I get home to go about my business in the evening. Economy has dropped perhaps 5mpg now that it’s got colder - less time on the battery alone. Very impressive economy considering it gets mercilessly flogged all the time.

[@thelaserhive3368]

Have you tried the party piece of the level 4? I mean the remote park assist using the key fob from outside the car. I love that feature and, as a wheelchair user, it has got me out of tight spots!

[@PetrolPed]

Yep 👍

[@markhomer6357]

Ped, tosave the cable issue I use a mini wireless car play adaptor highly recommended , great review highlight your personnel issues

[@PetrolPed]

Cheers 👍

[@johnspottiswoode4433]

I have a Kia Niro 4 full EV and I love it. 250 miles realistic range means that I hardly ever use the public chargers and I can fully re-charge 200 miles for around £4 at night. Btw the inbuilt satnav is very good as well, providing accurate traffic feedback.

[@andypalin3287]

Excellent review Pete. I agree with your gripes. The keyless entry is an unnecessary faff for sure! Personally I'm a 'less tech the better' merchant. I don't even use the sat nav if installed. Less distractions and more actual driving ...shock, horror! 😉

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

The definition of a Luddite. There is zero faff, you leave the key in your pocket and tap the pad on the door. It's not hard Andy, try to keep up.

[@PetrolPed]

Fair enough!

[@andypalin3287]

@@Thisonegoestoeleven666 luddite eh? I prefer the term 'Old School'. Obviously tech has it's place in the grand scheme, but i prefer not to burden the nhs unnecessarily by over reliance on convenience! Oh yes, as to 'not keeping up'. As a recently retired Optician of 40 years, i would probably have been struck off by now had this been the case! 😉

[@bengterlandsson7921]

Can recommend a 90 degree usb c cable. A must for me to have my phone sit nicely in my Niro.

[@PetrolPed]

I’ll take a look. I use this multi adapter as I need USB C and Lighting and don’t want 2 cables in the car 👎

[@RhysoPicton]

⁠@@PetrolPedsod a new cable….simply upgrade your lightning connector devices to ones with USB-C 😅😅

[@frankgooding2023]

Have the same car in BEV even the best colour 🙂 Something I noticed when you hit the power button at the end the car will automatically go to Park and set the Handbrake. Which I like. Agreed on wireless phone connection. Something I find I am 6 foot 2 and the drivers seat is a touch narrow my right leg is sitting on the bolster enough to be a nuisance. Otherwise works very well for me.

[@hedydd2]

You’ve got the same phone as me. The answer to your stowage is to get one of the many MagSafe holders on the dash. A numb one not a charger since you need to attach the cable anyway. The base of these MagSafe stands are stuck on the dash using 3M sticky pads and I like it to the right of the dash with the cable tidily routed across the top of the steering column. This makes if convenient for viewing the phone but also allows you to connect the cable to the phone before sitting in the car if preferred, which I do unless its raining.

[@keithw7777]

Simple to solve your cable issue:, do not use straight plug connector, an L shaped plug will enable your phone to sit flat in the phone area, surprised your contacts have not given you one!

[@ricka006]

I drive the Kia Sportage for work and its a really good car to drive, so not a surprise the Niro is the same. Looks so cool too. Weird the Apple Carplay isnt wireless considering the Sportage is wireless.

[@billdew5558]

Sorry Pete. You missed telling us how the cabin is heated. If it’s from the engine then in winter the engine is running just to keep you warm and any charge in the battery is ignored. I’ve had 3 Toyota hybrids and winter consumption is way worse than the summer.

[@Brian-om2hh]

Using heated seats uses less energy than the heater....

[@georgedaville4662]

Same with my Honda HRV.

[@chrisi1920]

The Niro has an electric PTC heater for the cabin that will warm the cabin air without using the engine at all. It will sap the high voltage battery to some extent but I haven't noticed a significant drop in EV range. If it's very cold or I want more heat in the cabin, then I put the car into sport mode that forces the engine to start and the cabin will be heated like any ICE car. The PTC heater is fairly quick and effective for defogging or defrosting the front window, actually faster than using engine heat that takes a few minutes to get to an effective temperature.

[@RTPeat]

We had a similar problem with a previous Max iPhone and a Kia Soul and the cable plugged in not fitting in the tray. Solved it with a very short USB-A to (at that time) L shaped lightning cable which is much smaller than the connector you’re using.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

An airbus is smaller than the cable connector Ped was using. Normally he is on the ball, but this and the key unlock complaint, Ped was not having a good day here.

[@PetrolPed]

Yes. I use this multi adapter as I need USB C and Lighting and don’t want 2 cables in the car 👎

[@martynb9]

Excellent analyse. I have one and agree with everything you say. Great car, not a dream car but comfortable and practical. Brilliant if you plug it in as well though. Glad your garage is almost there 👍🏻 I would prefer the BEV

[@Farmer101]

Having owned UK sports cars in late 60s to mid 70s your commenting on car quality. Joke. Besides you lot don't own car makers anymore. You still assemble cars like the yanks, all driven by 60yo production standards. Clue. Don't get car made on Monday or Friday much like UAE in US. Rubbish cars fall apart after 3-4 yrs.

[@martynb9]

@@Farmer101 are commenting on something I’ve said or PetrolPed said, either way I’m not understanding you ramblings 🤷‍♂️

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

@@martynb9 There is not much there that is understandable to be fair... It's not you.

[@PetrolPed]

Cheers 👍

[@WH05GTH]

That's unreal for a wired connection for the Niro but the Rio has wireless Android auto/Apple carplay! Which I found when I got a Rio as a curtesy car a couple of years back.

[@Molishious]

I was close to buying the previous version of the Niro EV. Bought a RAV4 Prime instead which has been fantastic. Niro probably would have been fine except for long distance traveling from Oregon to Southern California, due mostly to slow charging. It’s been nice not having to worry about charging on long trips, but a lot has changed since I bought my car in 21 and my next one will be a BEV. But I can’t complain about my PHEV, it’s been fun to drive electric 95 % of the time and know I’ve got 500 miles of range with an efficient hybrid when I’m going on long trips. Technically I have 600 miles of range but Toyota has the gas gauge set to show 0 hybrid range when I still have 125 miles of range. The Prime has a far more powerful electric motor than the Niro PHEV so for me it’s much better.

[@jonnycsuperplumb765]

You have a confession to make !! ...did the mrs come home early n catch you knocking one out 😮😄😂

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

It's not Ped's first rodeo on that one I bet!

[@andrewsteele348]

get a 90degree cable for the phone - sorts it easily:) I used a short one, so it fitted nicely and didnt get in the way.

[@brianbridle951]

Back to the Prius again Pete. Just does what it needs to then. lol

[@srodigital]

It would be good to see you pick up a new Kia Sportage as a long termer Pete. Hopefully more practical space. Thanks for the video. Take care.

[@PetrolPed]

Maybe that will be next 👍

[@HawkMillFarm]

Boot closing was a bit of a mouse trap, it sped up! "Eternal combustion engine" liked that term.

[@srodigital]

I noticed how the boot lid slammed shut. Maybe thats to save on the secondary mechanism for pulling the boot lid to the latched/locked position. It slammed just how you'd slam it shut if it was totally manual.

[@HawkMillFarm]

@@srodigital It did, but when you do it manually you tend to be very near and would monitor if you were about to slam it on your dog’s tail 😬

[@reinmansmith]

The Kia looks to be a great daily driver that ticks a lot of boxes…. I think the point you made comparing the cost of the ‘self charge’ hybrid against the plug in hybrid is a good one. When looking at buying my Toyota RAV4 the ‘plug in’ hybrid was approx £6000 more than the ‘self charge’ hybrid. I worked out that, while I would have been able to do all my local driving on EV power, (with the 40-45ml EV range of the ‘plug in’) it would have taken me roughly 7-8yrs to recoup the additional £6k purchase cost with fuel savings. Therefore the ‘self charge’ hybrid made more sense and I’m happy that I went down that route, never having to worry about plugging in while still being very fuel efficient.

[@mikejoseph425]

I wander if you would recoup some of the extra money spent on a PHEV when you sell it

[@reinmansmith]

@@mikejoseph425 I’m sure you would. But my point is that it’s something people should consider when paying such a high premium for the plug in version over the ‘self charge’ version. You need to work out which version is the most cost effective in your own individual circumstances 👍

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks for this 👍

[@CASFAN]

I must say, I hate the cheesy car vertical links that KZbinrs use. You know when they are coming and it’s just annoying having to skip by them. Anyway, regarding the phone charger, why don’t all car manufacturers just rip off the Tesla phone chargers. Whatever anyone thinks of the cars, the chargers are just spot on. I’ve got a 16 pro max and that fits in them a treat (with a case) and anything smaller fits and stays in place too. On top of that, there’s two chargers (one for driver and one for passenger).

[@PetrolPed]

But you are watching for free right ? As a full time creator I need to fund the making of these videos and commercial partners is how that happens. You see commercials on the TV all the time. It’s the same thing 🤷‍♂️

[@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars]

@@PetrolPed Who watches TV anymore? tho😂

[@graemetaylor629]

Hi Pete I must admit I get mildly annoyed by in video commercials as I pay for KZbin premium, but you’re not on your own and I appreciate the hard work you put into your quality videos.

[@CASFAN]

@@PetrolPed oh I know Pete, I’m not naive and understand how the world works. I’m just voicing an opinion. Basically every car KZbinr has the uncomfortable Segway into their Car Vertical spiel. I just find it annoying personally, so much so that I chose a car vertical competitor, the last time I looked into a car history.

[@laurencemoore5737]

Used car vertical. Good product. I help out friends and family as they I am a car guy so CV is the joker in the pack for me. 20% discount thumbs 👍 Great review PP. I am am petrol head from the 70’s so hope to always have an ICE like my 996 4S as a ‘toy’ but leaning more to having some sort of battery car for a daily, mostly because I need to save money to keep the 4S in fine fettle😂

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks for sharing!

[@JohnBeardsley-n4k]

Being the owner of a Niro EV for almost 2 years I still have that brain freeze moment of getting out and trying to lock it while still switched on!😆

[@sargfowler9603]

I've never done that with mine! However, a mate did it once in a hire car and the AA got called out next day....

[@williamfence566]

Pete . Could you time stamp the video's just makes it easier to not hear the car vertical plug as we do on every motoring you tube video

[@PetrolPed]

I get YT to auto time stamp. So should have been done 🤔. Doesn’t take much to fast forward though and you did watch for free 😜👍

[@thomasreed5543]

Mate you can get shorter cables than the one in the video if that helps ?

[@srodigital]

...or one with a 90 degree plug...

[@PetrolPed]

Yes. I use this multi adapter as I need USB C and Lighting and don’t want 2 cables in the car 👎

[@richardhowlett7398]

Sorry Pete that is one hideous contraption. What’s wrong with buttons on the key fob to lock and unlock , which you then put in and twist 🤔

[@philipmichaelhughes5719]

Ped, I think by now, we all assume that cleaning the tin can just isn’t your bag. 😊 Maybe if you had a AM Vantage? 😉

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Petrol Ped hashtag no sponge. 🧽 Loan cars hashtag no washing. 🧽

[@PetrolPed]

While the garage is being done I have no car wash facilities at home 👎

[@solentbum]

Third time commenting on this!! Put the charge point outside of the garage where it is available for use at any time. As you have found putting in the garage is a poor move. With my EV and a readily available charger it is a matter of seconds , and almost instinctive, to plug it in between trips . Self charging Hybrids are Fossil fuel cars and a total waste of everyones time and money.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Fossil fuel charges 89% of EV’s in England at least. Electricity is either Gas or Coal rather than wind/solar. I’m not going to go EV Sold my Lexus CT200H

[@stevecompton7197]

I think it depends on your personal circumstances ie if it's possible to have home charging or not so cost comes into it for a lot of people

[@Lewis_Standing]

That's absolutely incorrect. If we're talking about UK electricity grid mix 32% is wind, 27% gas the rest a mix of nuclear, solar and imports - typically French nuclear and Danish wind or Norwegian hydro. Theres precisely 0 coal making UK electricity now. ​@@Yorkshiremadmick

[@johniooi3954]

Totally agree, right at the back of the garage is a strange place given the wide range of charging points on cars. Either out side, or just inside the doors.

[@solentbum]

@@Yorkshiremadmick I'm sure that you noticed the News a few days ago announcing that the Last coal burning power station in the UK closed , As I type this 37% of the UK grid is wind powered. The renewable figures are improving almost every day . Plus of course most EVs charge at night when expensive Gas burning is throttled back where possible.

[@simonclutterbuck9840]

My father runs a Hyundai Tucson PHEV and I run a Mercedes CLA 250e (PHEV) and we both use the vehicles on-board Sat Nav for all long journey. In both cases the car uses the Engine/Battery for getting the best economy. They do not use up the battery in the first miles run. On a long journey my 42 mile range (summer months) can increase to 60+ miles using regen for cruise control and braking. Have you tried this process during your long journeys?

[@dangreasley7934]

Another great VFM car from Kia. They just do what it says on the tin...

[@PetrolPed]

Yep 👍

[@kevinlucas8437]

I have a Santa Fe calligraphy hybrid, I've done the same thing, tried to lock it, and I think I'm doing something wrong. Now I know 😅 love the mpg 30 -36 even more on long trips.

[@johniooi3954]

Turn off welcome mirrors (folding out) when you walk up. Kia does not unlock on approach. You need to press button on door handle or key fob. 90 degree connector on phone, plenty of room...

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Exactly my points. A brain fart from Ped on this one. Monday morning video after a big weekend Ped?

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks 🙏🏻

[@richardpiper4828]

A good car but is it just my impression or is it a little smaller than the previous e-Niro? Also it seems to be almost in the same crossover segment as the Kia Sportage and the new EV3 so does it fall between two stalls? In a competitive and hotly contested sector I struggle to understand the Niro’s stand out qualities. I cannot recall if you have had a pure BEV as a long term test car but if not I hope you will give one a trial to see how practical it is for a higher mileage driver. I know Tesla’s work well for business users but in my experience unless you have a 300+ mile EV there can still be some inconvenience in planning stops.

[@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars]

Next major advance ...self cleaning cars. TIP ..If you have a power hatch its a good idea to invest in an OEM boot mat because a towel can impede the proper closing of a tailgate kinda trapping the dogs inside until you realize what's going on.

[@karmanline2005]

I've had HEV, PHEV and BEV. Full EV is way more convenient for us. PHEV only works for certain lifestyles, eg 25 miles every weekdays and big journeys at weekends. But id stick with BEV.

[@Tailspin80]

Which one?

[@johnnodge4327]

BEV is also incredibly cheap to run in comparison to anything with an ICE engine, assuming an EV tariff is used to charge it.

[@Tailspin80]

@@johnnodge4327 Yes but it depends on how you use it. I used to commute 110 miles a day so BEV would have been perfect. Now I’m retired and don’t do many miles so fuel costs are almost irrelevant compared to purchase cost and depreciation. At some point they are going to have to introduce a pay per mile model so that EVs replace the £35 bn lost revenue on fuel duty and VAT. At that point BEVs will look less attractive but by then there won’t be any choice either. (In the U.K. )

[@karmanline2005]

@Tailspin80 niro hev, xceed phev, EV6 (such a great car).OH has a Soul Explore, bought used. (Also brilliant)

[@sredburn48]

Keyless entry has some security issues with remote theft, having to use faraday pouches or boxes. You can stun the Niro key by locking as normal and within a few seconds simultaneously press/ hold the lock and unlock fob buttons until the indicators flash four times. The only problem is the system defaults to keyless entry when next opened on pressing the key fob. The most comfortable seats and driving position. I have a Niro 4 Hev and getting 59-61mpg combined. 67mpg on E5. OTA software and maps updates are great but Kia only give the first two free then £80 a year ( kia generally release two updates per year) kia connect app is great with a live vehicle tracker and remote access via your phone. Shame they didn’t offer a Pan roof on 4 level, I had a previous Sportage GT line S 48v .

[@mikegipson1224]

Simply by a BEV - so much cleaner...

[@nealr5466]

Oh god no more car sodding vertical , i know you need sponsers but find someone else i automaticall fast forward as soon as i hear their name now on any channel

[@MrWobling]

Isn't there a little part of you that wishes you got the full EV version? Quieter, bigger boot (no space lost to the plugin battery), lower maintenence costs, better for the environment? No denying Kia make very good cars now. Was mighty impressed when I bought a nearly new Ceed JD back in 2014 and they've only got better since then.

[@johndawson5718]

Better for the environment?? What’s wrong with it now where he lives? Looked fine to me , lovely tree lined roads and such a big beautiful sky through those admittedly, dirty windows. You’ve fallen for the climate scam obviously. ☀️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@Tailspin80]

I haven’t had an EV but it’s the thought of having to find somewhere to charge it at the place he’s gone to do his film shoot so he can get back home… Or having to waste time on the way finding a charger that works and is free. It’s ok if the round trip is short enough but that isn’t always going to be the case.

[@Tailspin80]

@@johndawson5718Climate change is an existential threat but I agree politicians and businesses do justify a lot of nonsense on the back of it while simultaneously failing to do anything at all to address the problem.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

@@johndawson5718 Another armchair climatologist.......

[@PetrolPed]

It’s great cars. Don’t have home charging at the moment so not really an option.

[@tadeusz1504]

You say ride is comfortable in the Niro but I hear a fair bit of road noice in the recording. To me, the ride is comfortable only if road noice is low. Few reviewers comment on this aspect of comfort and too many speak at length about directness of steering, cornering ability and such like nonsesnse in relation to family cars. If the car was behaving border line unpredictably it'd be worth a mention but most cars don't do that, do they?

[@PetrolPed]

The mic always makes it sound louder than it actually is 😬

[@wanderingwilcoxs]

You can get a 90degree charge cable then your phone will fit

[@Ozplanman1]

Please keep the video to the theme in the title. Not all your viewers are in the UK, or have access to car vertical or want a testimonial for something outside the topic of the video. We are also time poor and several minutes of off topic faff is annoying. Your usual efforts are great however.

[@PetrolPed]

You still watched for free though right ?! It’s next to impossible to select brand partners that are truly global but as a full time content creator I need to find the making of the content you are enjoying 🤷‍♂️

[@keithward233]

My diesel mild hybrid Sportage does mid 50s on motorway trips and can get more if slower. Would a replacement Self Charge model get anywhere near that ?

[@petertwiss4215]

I have the EV version. I had the issue with leaving the car on and leaving the car. Solved by setting the seat recline and retraction on door open. Soon as you open the door, the seat moves back, reclines but only works when you have turned the car off.

[@paguk2000]

Pete if you keep a log you will be able to provide a real world figure for using the car where you do and don't plug the car in

[@philipparkes5682]

Hi Ped A competent practical car, but possibly does not stir the emotions. That may well sum up what many buyers will be looking for. Horses for courses.😉

[@10mbc]

9:57 C'mon... just use a 90 degrees usb C cable. You are using a cheap dual type cable, please buy a reputable USB-A to USB-C 90 degrees cable and be done with it. I don't have this car but I have a Hyundai i30 and it's a similar situation.

[@bellshooter]

Simple solution to the phone issue, get a 90 degree phone input lead, I have one from the A company.

[@Farmer101]

Kia cars made in 2024 etc don't have piano black everywhere & charge pads that fit bigger phones & ventilated for heat buildup.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Exactly, it's not rocket science is it?

[@IanBennetts]

I have a Niro EV and I use a wireless dongle. I just leave it plugged in and the phone connects when I turn the car on. I don't even need to take the phone out of my pocket unless I want to charge it. Hopefully more cars will have wireless built-in in the future.

[@jvoric]

9:59 buy a cable with a 90° plug on the end 🤷🏼🤷🏼 being picky about something that’s nothing to do with the actual car!

[@PetrolPed]

Yes. I use this multi adapter as I need USB C and Lighting and don’t want 2 cables in the car 👎

[@jvoric]

@@PetrolPedbuy a wireless CarPlay adapter..

[@derekdee9592]

Personal I wouldn’t charge inside your posh garage battery safety isn’t that dependable & if they let go your building will be destroyed. Move the charger onto an outside wall.

[@niceboy60]

Or just get a Petrol and save £8000 🤷

[@Jeffybonbon]

I adore cars but i hate New ones The New ones are better made better to drive and do a first class job Just like a washing machine in the kitchen If I was buying a new car just to use as a Kitchen Appliance i would buy KIA or something like that with a 7 year warranty keep it 7 Years hand it back and buy another one For personality I will stick with the following 2008 Defender Aston Martin DB9 and a Morgan three wheeler they are drivers cars in my opinion

[@kola100]

Got to say, I find it a really un-inspiring car … A real yawn🤷‍♂️

[@RussDykes-c3i]

Are you at the Dacia launch tomorrow?

[@PetrolPed]

Nope 👎

[@CarlosFandango1975]

I'm not a wireless carplay lover. It eats your battery too quickly and if I use a wireless charger it either doesn't work because of my phone case, or it overheats. I end up plugging it in to charge so I might as well not use wireless carplay

[@PetrolPed]

I agree. Just easier for shorter journeys.

[@beano6452]

The front seats reminds me of ET for some reason.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Phone (has no) Home!

[@PetrolPed]

😂😂😂

[@rickygershinson4182]

We have the self charging hybrid…average 58 mpg ! Climate/media touch buttons awful to use on the move …overall great car

[@ObiePaddles]

‘It’s got a key, obviously’ said no Tesla owner ever. No dog mode? Dealbreaker for me.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Our CEO is a mentally stable family man that really believes in unconditional free speech, and my car doesn't look like a melted turd......said no Tesla owner ever.

[@ObiePaddles]

@@Thisonegoestoeleven666 musk derangement syndrome is a terrible thing.

[@garrettosullivan8830]

What MPG were you getting with no plugging in.

[@PetrolPed]

I said in the video. High 40s 👍

[@rossbransby]

There is always a desire for more range, be it full electric or plug in hybrid, but it comes at a cost; use of raw materials, weight, money. A hybrid is a compromise. I am not sure what the 'right' range is for a plug in hybrid but the size of battery to say achieve 80 miles is the same as some small EV's. I'd suggest anything over 40 miles is too much and if you want more EV range you go full EV? Be interested what people think the sensible plug in hybrid range should be?

[@Farmer101]

Enjoy content but...journo driving called single lane roads highway 60? There were trees overhanging the road edge. Ha. We call that a country road.

[@PetrolPed]

I called it a National 60 because the speed limit on that road is 60mph 👍

[@brutusoftroy2810]

You obviously like it better than the Astra, that peice of sh1t was seen less than Diddy

[@jkrigby67]

My Galaxy phone attached to my hybrid wirelessly with Android Auto.

[@philipbroughton8920]

9000 miles in my full hybrid version, 58.9mpg average, the cruise control is awesome.

[@PetrolPed]

Nice 👌

[@garrymatthews4430]

The first sponcered video, well done PP

[@PetrolPed]

Thanks 🙏🏻

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Sorry not Sorry. Time is all around you. Reach out and grab it.

[@davidstanley4877]

This really isn’t a review of the PHEV then, is it?

[@PetrolPed]

It’s a living with video of a PHEV and talks about the reality of living with a plug in in you don’t plug it in. Like most PHEVs 🤷‍♂️

[@russellurwin7396]

Why not use an extension lead to charge and increase your mpg

[@tonymcflattie2450]

3.7kw onboard charger, those are rookie numbers

[@danielvasev4215]

Are you blind that you nearly didnt manage to fit in the rear and "plenty of space" hello you're ready for the politic....?...

[@johndawson5718]

Very true my friend. If I may have a little rant. I had to pick up an Amazon package from my local grocery store ( saving delivery costs) which was no doubt delivered by a diesel van. While there I needed bananas 🍌 for today and they’re from Costa Rica, delivered to UK by diesel ship to a warehouse and store by diesel transport…thats the big picture. We have to step back think of the bigger picture and realise how futile our EVs are in the big scheme of things. 🤔

[@ObiePaddles]

Car2Play gives you wireless CarPlay.

[@rob19632]

I am always leaving my Optima hybrid on. At least it beeps at me.

[@dereklawrence4622]

How amazing! It’s a plug in hybrid and you need to plug it in. Really! Oh what a shame you have to push the off button when you get out. That must be so demanding on you.this report is short on fact and long on waffle. Sorry!

[@invisiblekid99]

I've got one of these on loan while Kia sort my Stinger's recall and major 60K super special (and costly) service. They eff'd it right up and it's will be month they've had my car. All I can say is, GIVE ME MY STINGER BACK! The infotainment is so slow. While it's been fun driving for a month with one tank of fuel instead on one week, I hate it. I will say, if I had home charging it'll be better. Paying a few quid to do 30 miles on EV is pretty pointless. I don't bother with the keyless entry on the Stinger or this, it sucks on both. My phone goes in exactly the same place. Argh Heated seats get proper hot on max setting. It's not terrible, but the climate/media controls are not great. However, it does mean you can always get a parking space using the charging bays! Just as long as they have A/C charging.

[@robertenfield7716]

I'd check again that it doesn't have wireless car play, if push comes shove you can get a usb dongle to make it wireless, I use one for my car's android auto

[@maureenheasman5897]

The keyless entry thing is another modern fail of over complicated, unnecessary car tech. My Ford does this. I too have walked away thinking it’s locked. Mirrors out, gone to the back and it’s locked! Why can’t we just have a key fob??

[@oldpopmike]

Can hear a fair bit of road noise ?

[@Zak-B2L]

used 2023 Niro 4 ev or new duster 3 ? Help ;)

[@waynekerrr9027]

You've learned that you are now filling up at petrol pumps and charging up with electric 😂😂😂. Why do people buy into this b/s

[@Masterfeedbackprod]

Its not just the nero that has that key proximity opening problem my kia 24 plate sportage does the same and no wireless car play is just stupid , come on kia get with the programe and to make it worse in the sportage is the only socket for carplay is much lower than the nero its like kia have designed it to force you not to use carplay

[@johntrinick712]

Why are cars fitted with lane assist? The first thing you all do is switch it off. You complain that you have to do this via the entertainment screen rather than one button. So why have it at all? I'm lucky on my car they call lane assist a steering wheel. So far I've never needed to switch it off!🙄

[@karmanline2005]

Short answer is that it's mandatory. But, to be fair, I use lane keeping on major roads and motorways, in combination with adaptive cruise.

[@Tailspin80]

I’ve driven on the M25 and I can vouch no one is using it!

[@PetrolPed]

Because legally they have to 🤷‍♂️

[@johntrinick712]

@@Tailspin80 😂😂😂

[@karmanline2005]

@Tailspin80 I use it every Mway journey, including M25. It is excellent

[@mikejoseph425]

What’s the point of reviewing a PHEV when you have never plugged it in.

[@PetrolPed]

Because most owners don’t and it’s a good talking point. This is a living with review and so far I have not been able to plug it in 🤷‍♂️

[@Brian-om2hh]

Ped would have plugged it in, but for the reason he mentioned in the video..