The Hyundai G4EC-G is a 1,495 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a SOHC 12‑valve layout, sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPi), and an aluminium cylinder head on a cast‑iron block, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) and 129 Nm of torque. Simple architecture and robust construction prioritized reliability and ease of service in entry‑level applications.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (X3), Lantra (J2), and Excel (X3), the G4EC-G was engineered for cost‑effective ownership, urban drivability, and mechanical simplicity. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 2 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature distributor shaft wear in high‑mileage units, noted in Hyundai Service Bulletin EM‑1999‑03. The issue stems from marginal bearing surface hardening in early ignition modules, exacerbated by extended service intervals and high under‑bonnet temperatures. From 1998, Hyundai introduced revised distributor assemblies with improved bushing materials.
Hyundai
All production years (1995–2000) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1078). No Euro 3 variants were produced.
The Hyundai G4EC-G is a 1,495 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact sedans/hatchbacks (1995–2000). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with a SOHC 12-valve valvetrain to deliver predictable performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it emphasizes mechanical durability over advanced engine management technologies.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 129 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP I (API SG, SAE 10W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The G4EC-G’s SOHC 12-valve design offers predictable urban performance but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent distributor and valvetrain wear. Hyundai SP I 10W‑30 oil is essential due to its compatibility with older engine metallurgy and emissions systems. Extended service intervals or high ambient temperatures accelerate distributor shaft wear, especially in pre-1998 builds. Revised distributor assemblies from 1998 (per SIB EM‑1999‑03) mitigate this issue. The front-mounted timing belt must be replaced every 80,000 km to avoid interference damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP I (API SG, 10W-30) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual Accent 1996). Not compatible with modern low-viscosity or synthetic-only oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1078). No Euro 3 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output consistent across all G4EC-G applications (Hyundai Powertrain Guide 2001).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑1995‑E1, EM‑1995‑E2, SIB EM‑1999‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1078)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Hyundai G4EC-G was used across Hyundai's X3/J2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Lantra J2 and updated intake manifolds in the Accent X3—and from 1997 the Excel X3 facelift adopted recalibrated ignition maps for improved cold-start performance, creating minor software 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 EM‑1995‑E3). The 7th VIN digit for G4EC-G-equipped vehicles is typically 'E' or 'F'. All models use Magneti Marelli IAW 4AF ECU with standard OBD2 port. Critical differentiation from G4EK: G4EC-G is 1.5L with 90 PS and 12-valve SOHC; G4EK is 1.6L with 105 PS and 16-valve SOHC. Distributor part numbers changed in 1998—verify against SIB EM‑1999‑03 before replacement.
The G4EC-G's primary reliability risk is distributor shaft wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate applications. Hyundai internal data from 1999 indicated measurable timing drift before 120,000 km in pre-1998 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures due to unburned hydrocarbons from ignition instability. Extended service intervals and high under-bonnet temperatures increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (1995–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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