[nv rick]

We just got our 2014 hybrid a week ago. When going up a relatively steep grade, the engine gets quite loud. Is this normal, and will it quiet down when it gets broken in?
This happens when going from east to west through a mountain pass. Going the other way, the grade isn't as steep going up, and the engine noise stays normal.

 

[alcatraz]

I've read that the hybrid has a louder engine generally. I'm guess when you work the engine harder going up a hill that would be more pronounced. I don't think there is much to worry about though.

 

[Truthiness]

Loud engine has been talked about in reviews for the hybrid MKZ. I don't think that there is any problem other than it just being a bit noisy. Any updates to the situation since you posted last @nvrick

 

[zep]

what RPM's is it running in? The Hybrids engine is a natural atkinson cycle motor so it doesn't make as much punch as something forced. Hauling all the extra hybrid heft up those steeper grades will certainly have it screaming for mercy...

Monitor the situation but unfortunately I don't think there is any legitimate solution besides avoiding overly steep grades (of course that's not a viable suggestion either)

 

[nv rick]

Loud engine has been talked about in reviews for the hybrid MKZ. I don't think that there is any problem other than it just being a bit noisy. Any updates to the situation since you posted last @nvrick

No change. We went to Vegas yesterday and coming back when we climbed the Spring Mountain pass, the engine was just as loud. I tried without using the ACC, but I had to give it so much throttle that it was just as loud as when using ACC.
I thought that the noise cancellation was supposed to counteract this. But maybe that is just for road noise?