Engine Code

GENESIS G4K3 engine (2021–Present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Genesis G4K3 is a 3,498 cc, V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2021. It features gasoline direct injection (GDi), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a twin-scroll turbocharger system. This powertrain delivers strong, linear power for a refined driving experience, producing 294 kW (400 PS) and 530 Nm of torque.

Fitted primarily to the GV80 SUV and G80 sedan, the G4K3 was engineered for drivers seeking a blend of luxury, effortless performance, and quiet refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and advanced engine management, meeting stringent Euro 6d standards across all markets.

One documented area for attention is potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a known characteristic of direct-injection engines. This is addressed in Genesis Service Bulletin TSB-21-08-001, which outlines revised service intervals for walnut-shell blasting on high-mileage or predominantly urban-driven vehicles to maintain optimal airflow and combustion efficiency.

Gensis Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2021–Present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

G4K3 Technical Specifications

The Genesis G4K3 is a 3,498 cc V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for luxury SUVs and sedans (2021–Present). It combines gasoline direct injection with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver smooth, high-torque performance and responsive power. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances exhilarating performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,498 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke92.0 mm × 87.7 mm
Power output294 kW (400 PS)
Torque530 Nm @ 1,300–4,500 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline Direct Injection (GDi)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerTwin-scroll, water-cooled (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeGenesis Genuine Oil 5W-30 (API SP)
Dry weight218 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-turbo setup provides abundant torque from low RPMs, ideal for relaxed cruising and confident overtaking. To mitigate carbon buildup inherent in GDi systems, Genesis recommends periodic intake valve cleaning (walnut blasting) for vehicles exceeding 80,000 km or driven primarily in stop-start conditions, as per TSB-21-08-001. Using only Genesis-approved 5W-30 oil is critical for turbocharger and chain longevity. The engine's design prioritizes refinement; aggressive driving may trigger earlier maintenance for components like spark plugs and ignition coils.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Genesis Genuine Oil 5W-30 meeting API SP specification (Genesis Owner's Manual).

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all model years (2021–Present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across GV80 and G80 applications (Genesis TIS Doc. G-TIS-7760).

Primary Sources

Genesis Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G-TIS-7745, G-TIS-7750, G-TIS-7755, TSB-21-08-001

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

G4K3 Compatible Models

The Genesis G4K3 was developed for Genesis's flagship G80 and GV80 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine features platform-specific tuning for the GV80's SUV weight and the G80's sedan dynamics. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Genesis
Years:
2021–Present
Models:
G80 (RG3)
Variants:
3.5T
View Source
Genesis Group PT-2023
Make:
Genesis
Years:
2021–Present
Models:
GV80 (JX1)
Variants:
3.5T
View Source
Genesis Group PT-2023
Identification Guidance

The engine code 'G4K3' is cast into the engine block on the driver's side, near the front cylinder bank (Genesis TIS G-TIS-7770). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'K' for all G4K3-equipped vehicles. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its twin-turbochargers mounted within the 'hot-V' of the cylinder banks and its black plastic engine cover with '3.5 T-GDi' branding. Service parts are generally interchangeable between G80 and GV80 applications, but ECU calibration files differ and must be matched to the specific vehicle model and year.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Genesis TIS Doc. G-TIS-7770

Location:

Cast into the engine block on the driver's side, near the front cylinder bank (Genesis TIS G-TIS-7770).

Visual Cues:

  • Twin-turbochargers mounted in the 'hot-V' configuration.
  • Black plastic engine cover with '3.5 T-GDi' branding.
Intake Cleaning

Issue:

Gasoline direct injection can lead to carbon deposits on intake valves over time, particularly with frequent short trips.

Evidence:

Genesis TSB-21-08-001

Recommendation:

Follow Genesis Service Bulletin TSB-21-08-001 for intake valve cleaning procedures on high-mileage or urban-driven vehicles.

Common Reliability Issues - GENESIS G4K3

The G4K3's primary documented concern is potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a trait common to direct-injection engines. Genesis TSB-21-08-001 outlines a preventative maintenance procedure for high-mileage vehicles, while owner feedback suggests spark plug longevity can vary under aggressive driving. Regular adherence to the specified 5W-30 oil and proactive cleaning can mitigate these concerns.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Slight rough idle, minor hesitation under light throttle, reduced fuel economy over very long term.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing over intake valves due to direct injection, leading to gradual carbon deposit accumulation.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell blasting intake valve cleaning per Genesis TSB-21-08-001; use Top Tier fuel to slow recurrence.
Spark plug wear (accelerated)
Symptoms: Misfire codes (P030X), slight engine vibration, reduced power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: High cylinder pressures and temperatures from turbocharging can accelerate electrode wear, especially with spirited driving.
Fix: Replace spark plugs with OEM-specified type at or before recommended interval; inspect coils if misfires persist.
Turbocharger actuator calibration drift
Symptoms: Check Engine Light with boost-related codes (e.g., P0299, P0234), slight loss of boost pressure, altered throttle response.
Cause: Electronic actuators for wastegates can experience minor calibration drift over time due to heat cycles and mechanical wear.
Fix: Perform actuator adaptation/reset via Genesis diagnostic system (GDS); replace actuator if fault codes return or adaptation fails.
Minor oil consumption (within spec)
Symptoms: Need to top up oil between services (typically <0.5L per 1,000 km), no external leaks, blue exhaust smoke rare.
Cause: Design characteristic of high-performance turbocharged engines; piston ring design prioritizes power over absolute oil sealing.
Fix: Monitor oil level regularly and top up as needed with correct specification oil; consumption exceeding 1L per 1,000 km warrants inspection.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Genesis technical bulletins (2021-2024) and aggregated owner-reported data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about GENESIS G4K3

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GENESIS G4K3.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

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.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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.