The Genesis D4HC is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This configuration delivers 138 kW (188 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull ideal for relaxed highway cruising and effortless overtaking.
Fitted primarily to the first-generation Genesis G80 sedan, the D4HC was engineered for refined, quiet operation and strong fuel economy in a luxury context. It targeted drivers seeking diesel efficiency without sacrificing cabin serenity or performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), meeting stringent Euro 6 standards.
One documented engineering update addressed potential premature wear of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, detailed in Genesis Service Information Bulletin SIB-18-DL-007. The update involved revised cooler materials and, in some cases, replacement to prevent internal leakage and subsequent engine damage.

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards for all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Genesis D4HC is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for luxury sedans (2016-2020). It combines a high-pressure common-rail injection system with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and refined efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 138 kW (188 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common-rail direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Genesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP, ACEA C3) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong, linear torque ideal for relaxed driving but requires premium ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to protect the high-pressure fuel system and emissions components. Genesis Premium 5W-30 oil is critical for maintaining chain and turbo longevity under high thermal loads. Short trips should be minimized to ensure proper DPF regeneration cycles. Vehicles built before Q2 2018 should have the EGR cooler inspected per SIB-18-DL-007 to prevent potential internal leakage and coolant contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Genesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP, ACEA C3) specification (Genesis Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Requires EN 590 diesel for rated output and emissions compliance (Genesis TIS Doc. G-I4-TURBO-01).
Genesis Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G-I4-TURBO-01, G-I4-GDI-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Genesis D4HC was used across Genesis's mid-size luxury platforms with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the G80 for enhanced NVH control-and no mid-cycle facelifts affected core engine compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front right side of the cylinder block, near the accessory drive (Genesis TIS G-I4-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit for D4HC-equipped vehicles is 'D'. All D4HC engines feature a distinctive silver plastic intake manifold with '2.0 CRDi' branding and a visible VGT turbo housing. Critical differentiation from the petrol Theta II: D4HC has a DPF canister and SCR AdBlue tank. Service parts are generally consistent across model years, but EGR system components require verification against SIB-18-DL-007 for pre-2018 builds.
The D4HC's primary documented concern is potential EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips that prevent the system from reaching optimal operating temperature. Genesis SIB-18-DL-007 outlines the corrective procedure, while routine maintenance data suggests DPF regeneration issues are a common service item. Use of correct fuel grade and oil specification is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Genesis technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GENESIS D4HC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with GENESIS or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
GENESIS Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialGENESIS documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.