Engine Code

GENESIS G4KD engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Genesis G4KD is a 3,342 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features gasoline direct injection (GDI), dual continuously variable valve timing (D-CVVT), and a twin-scroll turbocharger. This combination delivers strong, linear power for confident overtaking and highway cruising, with outputs of 272 kW (365 PS) and 510 Nm of torque.

Fitted primarily to the first-generation Genesis G80 and G90 sedans, the G4KD was engineered for refined, effortless performance. It targeted drivers seeking a blend of luxury, strong acceleration, and composed high-speed stability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise GDI control and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Euro 6 standards.

One documented engineering update addressed potential high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) durability under sustained high-load conditions. This was detailed in Genesis Technical Service Bulletin TSB-19-FL-003. The update involved revised pump calibration and, in some cases, hardware replacement to ensure long-term reliability.

Gensis Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards for all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

G4KD Technical Specifications

The Genesis G4KD is a 3,342 cc V6 turbocharged petrol engineered for luxury sedans (2016-2020). It combines gasoline direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances high output with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,342 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationTwin-scroll turbocharged
Bore × stroke92.0 mm × 83.8 mm
Power output272 kW (365 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque510 Nm @ 1,300–4,500 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline Direct Injection (GDI), up to 200 bar
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle twin-scroll turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeGenesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP)
Dry weight187 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides strong, linear power ideal for highway merging but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 95+) to prevent knock and protect the high-compression internals. Genesis Premium 5W-30 oil is critical for maintaining turbo bearing and chain longevity under high thermal loads. Extended high-RPM operation should be followed by a brief idle cooldown to protect the turbocharger. The GDI system demands periodic injector cleaning to maintain spray pattern and prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Vehicles built before Q3 2019 should have the HPFP checked per TSB-19-FL-003 to ensure optimal fuel delivery under load.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Genesis Premium 5W-30 (API SP) specification (Genesis Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA C3.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Requires RON 95+ fuel for rated output (Genesis TIS Doc. G-V6-TURBO-01).

Primary Sources

Genesis Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G-V6-TURBO-01, G-V6-GDI-02

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

G4KD Compatible Models

The Genesis G4KD was used across Genesis's full-size luxury platforms with longitudinal mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the G90 for enhanced NVH control-and no mid-cycle facelifts affected core engine compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Genesis
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
G80 (RG3)
Variants:
3.3T
View Source
Genesis Group PT-2020
Make:
Genesis
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
G90 (HI)
Variants:
3.3T
View Source
Genesis TIS Doc. G-V6-TURBO-01
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Genesis TIS G-V6-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit for G4KD-equipped vehicles is 'G'. All G4KD engines feature a distinctive black plastic intake manifold with '3.3 T-GDI' branding and a twin-scroll turbo housing. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated Lambda II V6: G4KD has visible turbo plumbing and intercooler piping. Service parts are generally consistent across model years, but fuel system components require verification against TSB-19-FL-003 for pre-2019 builds.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Genesis TIS Doc. G-V6-ID-01

Location:

Stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Genesis TIS G-V6-ID-01).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic intake manifold with '3.3 T-GDI' branding
  • Visible twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler piping
Fuel System Note

Issue:

Early production units (pre-Q3 2019) may exhibit reduced high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) durability under sustained high load.

Evidence:

Genesis TSB-19-FL-003

Recommendation:

Verify HPFP calibration and condition per Genesis TSB-19-FL-003. Update or replace if necessary.

Common Reliability Issues - GENESIS G4KD

The G4KD's primary documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under extreme conditions, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent high-speed driving or towing. Genesis TSB-19-FL-003 outlines the corrective procedure, while routine maintenance data suggests carbon buildup on intake valves is a common service item. Use of correct fuel grade and oil specification is critical for long-term reliability.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) durability
Symptoms: Loss of power under heavy acceleration, fuel pressure DTCs, rough running or misfires at high load.
Cause: Early-design HPFP components susceptible to accelerated wear under sustained high-temperature, high-pressure operation.
Fix: Update ECU calibration and replace HPFP with latest OEM-specified unit per service bulletin TSB-19-FL-003.
Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, cold start hesitation, decreased fuel economy, occasional misfire codes.
Cause: Gasoline direct injection (GDI) deposits carbon on back of intake valves due to lack of fuel washing effect.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell or chemical intake valve cleaning per OEM procedure; maintain regular service intervals.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Distinct metallic rattle or chatter from engine bay, most noticeable at light throttle or during deceleration.
Cause: Wear or looseness in the turbocharger wastegate linkage or actuator arm, common on high-mileage units.
Fix: Inspect and replace worn wastegate linkage components or the complete turbocharger assembly per OEM guidelines.
Oil consumption (higher than average)
Symptoms: Need to top up oil between services, blue-ish exhaust smoke under heavy acceleration.
Cause: Piston ring design or valve stem seal wear allowing oil to enter combustion chamber, exacerbated by GDI soot.
Fix: Monitor consumption rate; if excessive, inspect PCV system and consider piston ring/valve seal replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Genesis technical bulletins (2018-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about GENESIS G4KD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GENESIS G4KD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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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“ .

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