The Hyundai G4BS is a 1,341 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2005. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 12‑valve architecture, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 55–63 kW (75–86 PS) with torque figures between 112–118 Nm, offering economical performance for urban and light-duty use.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (X3), Excel (X3), and Atos (SA), the G4BS was engineered for cost-effective manufacturing and serviceability in entry-level applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic three-way catalytic conversion and electronic fuel control, allowing baseline Euro 2 compliance in later production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which in severe cases can cause belt slippage or failure. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑98‑05, is attributed to marginal bearing quality in early tensioner designs. From 2000 onward, Hyundai revised the tensioner assembly with improved materials to enhance durability.
Hyundai
Production years 1995–1999 meet no formal EU emissions standard; 2000–2005 models meet Euro 2 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Hyundai G4BS is a 1,341 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1995–2005). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 (in later builds), it prioritizes simplicity and ease of maintenance over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,341 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 71.5 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55–63 kW (75–86 PS) | |
| Torque | 112–118 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | None (pre‑2000); Euro 2 (2000–2005) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC 12-valve layout provides predictable, low-maintenance performance suited to city driving but lacks high-rpm refinement. Timing belt replacement is critical every 60,000 km or 4 years—failure risks valve-piston contact as the G4BS is an interference engine. Early tensioner pulleys (pre-2000) are prone to bearing wear; inspect for play or noise during belt service. Use only API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (10W-30) oil; modern low-viscosity oils may reduce camshaft lubrication. Fuel system is tolerant of standard EN 228 petrol but sensitive to ethanol blends above E5.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (10W-30) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 1997). Not compatible with modern GF-6 or low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 2000–2005 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). Pre-2000 units have no EU emissions certification.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by application and altitude compensation (Hyundai TIS Doc. H‑96‑018).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H‑95‑088, H‑96‑018
Hyundai Service Bulletin TSB‑98‑05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 1585:1995 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Hyundai G4BS was used across Hyundai's Accent/Excel platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Atos and modified accessory brackets in the Accent—and from 2000 the Excel II adopted an updated emissions calibration with OBD-II compliance, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Hyundai TIS H‑95‑085). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('S' for G4BS series). Pre-2000 units have a silver valve cover and single-point ignition coil; post-2000 revisions use a black valve cover and distributorless ignition with individual coils. Critical differentiation from G4CN: G4BS is 1.3L with 12 valves; G4CN is 1.5L with 16 valves. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable across 1999/2000 production break due to tensioner redesign (Hyundai TSB‑98‑05).
The G4BS's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure in pre-2000 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Hyundai internal quality data from 1999 indicated a notable share of early engines requiring tensioner replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show MOT advisories linked to ignition misfires from degraded coil packs in fleet vehicles. Infrequent belt changes and poor-quality replacement parts amplify timing system stress, making OEM-spec maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1998–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4BS.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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