If you really want to have the engine at operating temp the a circulation tank heater is your animal. Costs a but more then a block heater but is miles better at preheating. I have a 1500 watt model on my Prius, an 80% grille block, and an engine blanket to keep in the heat. I have an aftermarket temp gauge to keep an eye on things. 45 minutes to 70˚C which is the temperature at which the Prius shuts off the engine. I'm saving 5 minutes of warm up time and getting about 25% better FE on my short commute.
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A grill block will only help aerodynamics and make your engine overheat sooner.
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There are two distinct advantages to grille blocking:
1: Aero
2: Slightly faster warm up and heat retention once warm
Both increase efficiency.
My Prius has not overheated on me and plenty of others on this site will tell you that a grille block will not instantly make your car overheat. You should watch it though to see how your car reacts. My minivan has overheated only in warm weather up long hills but then I have a manual fan so that's my fault. Even with the block the fan cools it off quick.
On the Prius the T-stat is the lowest coolant point on the block and sits right beside the water pump.
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