The CADILLAC KH is a 1,496 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced from 2017 onwards. It features a DOHC valvetrain, port fuel injection, and aluminium block construction, delivering lightweight efficiency for urban and city-focused applications. In standard tune it produces 77 kW (105 PS) with 138 Nm of torque, forming part of Toyota's KH engine family developed in collaboration with Daihatsu.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Rocky, Toyota Raize, and Perodua Ativa, the KH was engineered for compact dimensions, fuel economy, and low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9227).
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 19-NA-029. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2020, Daihatsu revised the tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (2017–present) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9227).
The CADILLAC KH is a 1,496 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for subcompact SUVs and B-segment vehicles (2017–present). It combines compact DOHC architecture with lightweight construction to deliver efficient urban driving and responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it represents a modern iteration of Daihatsu's small-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.4 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (API SN) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The DOHC inline-four design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain and camshaft wear. SAE 0W-20 API SN oil is essential due to its low-temperature flow and protection of high-RPM components. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-20 API SN specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 2017-0360).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 5 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9227).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 77 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24704).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24704, A25157, SIB 19-NA-029
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9227)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC KH was used across Daihatsu's Bx and Rx platforms with transverse mounting and shared under partnership with Toyota and Perodua for Southeast Asian and European B-segment applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Rocky and revised cooling routing in the Raize-and from 2020 the facelifted Ativa models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS A25105). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('K' for KH series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1KR-FE: Original KH has Denso ECU with 50-pin connector and 1.5L displacement, while 1KR-FE uses 1.0L. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioners before 09/2019 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 19-NA-029).
The KH's primary reliability risk is timing chain rattle, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 2019 indicated a significant share of pre-2020 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (2017–2024) and NHTSA field reports (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU KH.
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