Are you getting excited? It's time to buy a new Kia! But if you live in Los Angeles, are you better off investing in a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or an EV? At Van Nuys Kia, we are here to help with answers to your most important questions when making this decision.
Quick Comparison: Hybrid vs Plug-In Hybrid vs Electric
- Hybrid: No plug-in required; a great fit if you drive longer distances and want easy refueling.
- Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): Drive short trips on electricity, then switch to gas for longer drives.
- Electric (EV): No gas stops; ideal if you have convenient charging at home/work and want all-electric driving.
To explore current electrified options, see EV & hybrid research or browse Kia EV & hybrid inventory.
Finding Seats for the Whole Family
Yes, the very first electric vehicles seated two comfortably, and maybe your toddlers in the back. Now, there is plenty of elbow room in the Kia Sportage Hybrid or the Kia EV6 for up to 5. If you need to expand into a third row, stretch out in a Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid, the Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid, or the Kia EV9.
Room in the Rear for All the Things
What about bringing home the groceries or the kids' sports bags? The compact Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid gives you 22.8 cubic feet of room behind the back seats, while the Kia EV6 expands your options up to 28 cubic feet. The three-row rides all maintain your ability to pack in a week's worth of groceries without leaving one of the kids at home.
Connectivity and Comfort
So, you will have to give up something to increase fuel efficiency, right? Think again! From wireless access to apps to smart climate controls and ventilated front seats, your hybrid or electric vehicle offers luxury upgrades that are comparable to any premium gas-powered model. Hotspots, app-controlled remote start, and intelligent navigation are all found in the spec lists.
Running Errands, Commuting Downtown, or Camping
How you will use your vehicle may be the key determining factor. Your Kia EV6 will spend all week picking up the kids, getting you to work, and even include an epic shopping trip without stopping with its estimated 270-mile range.
A Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid can run up to 32 miles in EV mode before its gas engine is needed. For those who take weekly 200-mile trips out to Death Valley or Sequoia National Park and back, you might want a Kia Sportage Hybrid that will run as long as you can find a gas station.
A Place to Plug In at Home and On the Go
If you really want to add an EV to your garage, consider where you will charge on a regular basis. Every Kia EV9 includes a Level I charging cord able to plug into a standard home outlet, but for dependable overnight charging, you will likely want to install your own Level II station.
If your employer offers several DC Fast Charging ports in the parking garage, relying on power while at work is a good choice. The Kia Charge app points you to the closest available public charging station while you are traveling. For more guidance on EV ownership, visit EV research at Van Nuys Kia.
Your Life, Your Kia
The decision on electric vs. hybrid really comes down to your driving habits and the availability of a supporting power source. Performance, capability, and connectivity can be found in any model.
Are you ready to make the final choice? If you're in the Los Angeles area, you can browse current Kia EV & hybrid inventory and find us using directions to Van Nuys Kia.
Electric vs. Hybrid FAQs
What's the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid?
A hybrid recharges its battery as you drive and doesn't need to be plugged in. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can be charged to drive a set number of miles on electricity before switching to gas for longer trips.
Do Kia hybrids need to be charged?
Most hybrids do not need to be plugged in. Plug-in hybrid models can be charged to maximize electric-only driving for shorter trips.
Can I charge a Kia EV at home?
Yes. Many drivers use a standard outlet (Level 1) for slower charging, while a home Level 2 charger is typically best for more dependable overnight charging.