A system and method for providing a user of a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) more flexibility and control regarding the selection of heating modes, without adversely affecting vehicle engine emissions. According to one embodiment, when the HEV is in a normal heating mode, the user is able to switch to an economy or deferred heating mode, so long as the switch takes place during the following ignition cycle. When the HEV is in an economy heating mode the user is able to switch to a normal heating mode right away, but is only allowed to do so once per ignition cycle. In both instances, the switch between heating modes is initiated by the user through a non-emissions related system, such as a vehicle infotainment module or climate control module.