The Hyundai G4CR is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (CVVT). In standard form it delivered 91 kW (124 PS) and 157 Nm of torque, engineered for balanced urban efficiency and reliability.
Fitted to models such as the i20 PB, i30 FD/HD, and Accent RB, the G4CR was engineered for compact vehicle applications requiring low running costs, smooth operation, and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through three-way catalytic conversion and precise CVVT control, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the CVVT actuator solenoid, leading to rough idle and timing-related fault codes. This issue is highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin HST‑14‑009 and is often linked to oil contamination or extended oil change intervals. From 2015, Hyundai introduced revised solenoid internals and updated ECU calibration to enhance durability.
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5123).
The Hyundai G4CR is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2010–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with CVVT to deliver smooth, predictable power delivery and fuel-efficient urban commuting. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes serviceability and long-term reliability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 91 kW (124 PS) | |
| Torque | 157 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP II (API SN, SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000–15,000 km oil change intervals using API SN-compliant 5W‑30 oil to protect the CVVT solenoid and timing chain. Extended oil intervals or contaminated oil accelerate solenoid clogging, triggering timing faults and rough idle. The absence of direct injection eliminates intake valve carbon concerns, simplifying long-term maintenance. Post-2015 engines include updated CVVT solenoids per Hyundai SIB HST‑14‑009; pre-2015 units benefit from proactive solenoid inspection and oil quality monitoring.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN (SAE 5W-30) oil meeting Hyundai SP II specification (Hyundai SIB HST‑14‑009).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years 2010–2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5123). No Euro 6 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Hyundai TIS Doc. H4G‑A105).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H4G‑A101, H4G‑A102, H4G‑A105, SIB HST‑14‑009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5123)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4CR was used across Hyundai's PB, FD, and RB platforms with transverse mounting and exclusive to entry-level applications. This engine received platform-specific cooling ducting—revised radiator shrouds in the i20 PB and modified accessory drive routing in the Accent RB—and from 2015 the facelifted i30 HD received updated CVVT solenoids, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Hyundai TIS H4G‑A100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('G' for 1.6L petrol). Pre-2015 models use CVVT solenoid with grey connector; post-2015 units have black connector and revised internal filter. Critical differentiation from Gamma GDI engines: G4CR uses MPFI with external fuel rail and lacks high-pressure pump. ECU part numbers must match production date—units before 01/2015 require calibration update per SIB HST‑14‑009 for solenoid compatibility.
The G4CR's primary reliability risk is CVVT solenoid clogging, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-spec oil or operating in high-dust environments. Hyundai internal data from 2015 indicated up to 6% of pre-2015 engines required solenoid replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures due to the simplicity of the MPFI system. Poor oil quality and infrequent changes accelerate wear, making oil specification and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2014–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4CR.
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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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