"But it's damn irritating to plug it in when it
gets a bit "nippy" outside."

1. Free car
2. it HAS a block heater (many don't)
3. you have a way to plug it in ( many don't)
4. you live in Rhode Island.. do you understand you are "like way north" ?

So how is not plugging it in working for you ?

Not so well it sounds like.....