What Is A Mild Hybrid Car (MHEV)? | Kia UK
Go to content
  1. home
  2. Kia Electric and Hybrid Range ...
  4. What is a mild hybrid?

What Is A Mild Hybrid Car (MHEV)? | Kia UK

go electric banner

What is a Mild Hybrid (MHEV)?

A Mild Hybrid car is very similar to a Hybrid car, but with a smaller battery. So it can’t drive on battery power alone. The battery is there to help the petrol or diesel engine perform more economically.

Reasons to drive a Kia Mild Hybrid car

There are many substantial benefits to owning a Mild Hybrid car. Here are a few of the best.

Lower emissions

Lower emissions

Because the electric motor can assist with the acceleration there is less strain on the engine. It also allows the engine to switch off more regularly – when coasting for example. This means lower emissions and cleaner air for everybody.
Reduced running costs

Reduced running costs

Using less fuel is not only good for the environment it’s also good for your finances! Improved fuel economy means less money spent on fuel, and less time wasted at the pumps. The lower emissions also mean a reduced VED rate and lower BIK tax.
Lower costs without changing how you use your car

Lower costs without changing how you use your car

Not quite ready to switch to a plug-in vehicle, or don’t have the option of a home charge point? Then a hybrid car might be for you. It doesn’t require you to do anything different than you would do in a conventional car. Clever electronics take care of how the energy is recovered and used. All you have to worry about is keeping it topped up with fuel.
Relaxing drive

Relaxing drive

The assistance from the electric motor means the engine doesn’t have to work as hard and that makes for a quieter journey. The added torque also means effortless acceleration for a more relaxing driving experience.
Lower initial cost

Lower initial cost

While a mild hybrid doesn’t offer the same level of benefits as a full hybrid, the mild hybrid’s smaller battery means the initial purchase cost is lower.

Mild Hybrid car FAQs

Our Mild Hybrid cars

Kia Sportage Mild hybrid

The all-new Kia Sportage Mild Hybrid

The all-new Sportage is a car with many choices and now includes mild hybrid powertrain options. It combines enhanced efficiency with sporty performance and can reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emission levels.
View model details
Kia Stonic Mild Hybrid

Kia Stonic Mild Hybrid

Powerful and dynamic, this engine really takes you places. The fun in this unique urban crossover carries on with the 1.0 T-GDI 118 bhp 7-speed dual clutch transmission or manual engine. Slide in, buckle up, and accelerate to a new level of enjoyable driving. Thanks to the advanced Mild Hybrid powertrain, fuel efficiency is even greater with all the same dynamism (available on 'GT-Line' upwards).
View model details
Kia Rio Mild hybrid

Kia Rio Mild Hybrid

The Kia Rio features an advanced mild hybrid powertrain, giving you low-emission everyday driving. By pairing the latest 1.0 T-GDi gasoline engine with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, it can reduce fuel consumption levels. What’s more, the integrated ‘e-system’ recovers kinetic energy during deceleration phases to provide torque assistance when accelerating. (Available on the '3' and 'GT-Line S' grades)
View model details
View the complete Electric & Hybrid range

Take the test. Find your match.

Finding out which Kia Electric and Hybrid Car best suits your needs and lifestyle is simple: Just answer the following 4 multiple-choice questions to generate your personal match.

Question 1 - RANGE

How far do you drive on an average day?

I usually stay local: Less than 30 miles.
I'm on the road a lot: Up to 250 miles.
I spend all day behind the wheel: More than 250 miles.
It varies a lot.

More about Electric & Hybrid cars

  • Why switch to eco?

    If you’re thinking of switching to an electric car, you’ve probably got lots of questions. Our simple guide will help you answer them.

    Read More

  • What is a Hybrid car?

    Hybrid cars can offer you improved fuel economy and lower emissions, without the need to change how you use your vehicle. No plugging in required.

    read more

  • What is a Plug-In Hybrid car?

    Plug-in hybrid cars can offer you many of the benefits of an electric car, they have shorter electric range but can rely on a petrol motor for longer trips.

    read more

  • What is a Mild Hybrid car?

    Mild Hybrids allow your engine to switch off more frequently, which improves fuel economy and reduces emissions.

    Read More

  • How does charging work?

    Don’t worry, charging may seem complicated, but in reality it’s very simple.

    read more

  • What is the cost of running an electric car?

    Owning an electric car is cheaper than you might think, with tax incentives and lower running costs.

    read more
  • Request a Test Drive banner icon Book a test drive with your local Kia dealer. Request a Test Drive banner icon Book a test drive with your local Kia dealer.
  • Request a brochure banner icon Download a brochure today. Request a brochure banner icon Download a brochure today.
  • Configure your car banner icon Design and build your perfect Kia. Configure your car banner icon Design and build your perfect Kia.
  • Discover our range banner icon Click here to discover our wide range of models. Discover our range banner icon Click here to discover our wide range of models.

Images shown for illustration purposes only and may not be to UK specification.