Winter driving is hardly an issue with this car. I’ve been in temps as low as -30°C (-22°F) and it handles fine.
The only downside is my 2019 European model doesn’t have the pre-heating app, but you can’t get everything.
@Aeron
I have Kia connect and a 2020 eniro. I can select the option to preheat the car but it just fails
Rin said:
@Aeron
I have Kia connect and a 2020 eniro. I can select the option to preheat the car but it just fails
I have Kia connect and a 2020, and the preheat works fine for me. It’s hard on the 12v battery though.
@Aeron
Yeah, that’s my concern as it gets really cold here in the -20s. It’s good to hear it does well in those temperatures. I did get Kia access for 3 months for free, and the scheduled climate feature is great
@Mai
After the free period, you can just remote start with your key fob. It’s nice and warm when you get in. I usually grab my key, open the blinds, remote start, make coffee, and leave. If it were freezing here, I’d start it earlier.
@Vern
Never heard of remote start?
Linden said:
@Vern
Never heard of remote start?
In the app? Sure. But when the app isn’t free anymore, I use the key fob.
Linden said:
@Vern
Never heard of remote start?
In the app? Sure. But when the app isn’t free anymore, I use the key fob.
How do you do it with the fob? I’ve tried everything and gave up.
@Shawn
Have you tried double-clicking the lock button and holding down the ‘hold’ button until the car lights flash?
Winter driving shouldn’t be a problem. The range will drop like with any EVs, but not too much. Your short daily drives shouldn’t cause issues. Also, don’t forget to enjoy those heated seats.
I have the same model and winter driving is fine for me, though I’m in southern England, so winters aren’t as harsh.
A few things to note:
- The range won’t be great in the cold, but your needs are modest.
- Charging from a regular power socket in the US is slower than in Europe. In the UK, I get 2.1KW to 2.8KW from a regular socket.
- The remote climate control is great if you have it. The car warms up and defrosts in the morning.
- Watch out for wheel spin! Winter tires are probably essential in your area.
@Nathan
Do you know if having a Niro with or without a heat pump affects the scheduled and remote climate control?
Bao said:
@Nathan
Do you know if having a Niro with or without a heat pump affects the scheduled and remote climate control?
I have the heat pump version. Not sure what would happen without it, but I imagine heating would rely only on the main battery or 12V auxiliary.
Twins! I bought mine from the same place. I don’t have the cold weather package, but I’m in the southeast, so it’s not as much of a concern.
Bliss said:
Twins! I bought mine from the same place. I don’t have the cold weather package, but I’m in the southeast, so it’s not as much of a concern.
My wife got one too. We’re in Seattle, had to change the tires immediately – it was sliding a lot in the rain.
I bet you got a good deal on it. These cars are great, and you can find them used for such a low price now.
Jade said:
I bet you got a good deal on it. These cars are great, and you can find them used for such a low price now.
Yeah, it was a great deal – 19,600 with taxes and fees, before the 4k tax credit. I was considering the Bolt, but I didn’t like it. The seats were uncomfortable, and it felt too small. The Niro handles way better. I even ordered a bigger rear sway bar.
@Mai
Tires are the limit. The car stays flat right up until it starts sliding. I’ve done that twice.
Did you get the cold weather package? Shouldn’t be an issue either way.