The Hyundai D4TA is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and variable intake timing (VVT). In standard form it delivered 101–105 kW (137–143 PS) and torque between 184–186 Nm, offering smooth mid‑range response for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Elantra XD facelift, Tucson JM, and Santa Fe SM, including variants lik…
All production years (2005–2010) meet Euro 4 standards across EU markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Hyundai D4TA is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and midsize vehicles (2005–2010). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with variable intake timing to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 91.0 mm | |
Power output | 101–105 kW (137–143 PS) | |
Torque | 184–186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven (non‑interference) | |
Oil type | API SL/SM (SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 142 kg |
The Hyundai D4TA was used across Hyundai's XD/JM/SM platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Santa Fe SM and updated intake manifolds in the Tucson JM—and from 2008 the Elantra XD facelift adopted a revised cam phaser and updated ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The D4TA's primary reliability risk is cam phaser wear due to improper oil maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected vehicles. Hyundai internal field reports from 2009 noted a measurable share of pre-2008 engines exhibiting phaser-related drivability faults before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions test failures due to the robust three-way catalyst system. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity accelerate phaser wear, making oil adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2007–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The D4TA is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Early models (2005–2007) are more prone to cam phaser issues if oil changes are neglected, but post-2008 revisions improved durability. The non-interference chain design eliminates catastrophic timing failure risk. With regular servicing using correct oil, many examples exceed 200,000 km without major repairs.
Top issues include variable cam phaser wear (causing rough idle), ignition coil failure, exhaust manifold cracking, and thermostat housing leaks. These are documented in Hyundai TSBs and correlate with real-world repair data. Oil quality and service intervals are key mitigating factors for phaser longevity.
The D4TA powered the Elantra XD (2005–2010), Tucson JM (2005–2009), and Santa Fe SM (2005–2006) as the 2.0 GLS/AT petrol variant. All are transverse-mounted applications. No Kia or external licensing occurred—this is a Hyundai proprietary design based on the Beta II architecture.
Limited potential. As a naturally aspirated MPFI engine, gains are modest—typically +5–8 kW via ECU remap and intake/exhaust upgrades. Forced induction is not recommended due to stock compression ratio and lack of reinforced internals. Most owners prioritize reliability over tuning.
Moderate for its era. In a Tucson 2.0 AT, expect ~9.2 L/100km city and ~6.5 L/100km highway, or ~35 mpg UK combined. Elantra variants achieve slightly better figures (~7.8 L/100km combined). Real-world economy depends on driving style and transmission type—manual models are ~0.5 L/100km more efficient.
No. The D4TA uses a chain-driven non-interference valvetrain. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will not contact valves, preventing catastrophic engine damage. This design enhances long-term reliability and reduces repair risk.
Hyundai specifies API SL/SM petrol-rated oil, typically 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable but not required. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months to protect the VVT phaser and maintain engine cleanliness.
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 HYUNDAI 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.
HYUNDAI 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 officialHYUNDAI 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.