The Hyundai G4EP is a 1,594 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16‑valve architecture, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 79–82 kW (107–112 PS) with torque figures between 144–147 Nm, offering balanced performance for compact and subcompact applications.
Fitted to models such as the Accent (LC), Getz (TB), and Verna (LC), the G4EP was engineered for global urban mobility with emphasis on serviceability and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, three-way catalytic conversion, and evaporative emission controls, allowing full Euro 3 compliance across all production years, with select later units meeting Euro 4 in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), which can cause persistent valve train noise and reduced valve lift. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑11, is attributed to marginal oil flow design in early cylinder head galleries. From 2006, Hyundai revised the head oiling circuit and updated HLA specifications to improve durability.

Hyundai
All production years (2000–2010) meet at least Euro 3 standards; select 2006–2010 models meet Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5432).
The Hyundai G4EP is a 1,594 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2000–2010). It combines SOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and Euro 4 in later builds), it balances drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,594 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 79–82 kW (107–112 PS) | |
| Torque | 144–147 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (all); Euro 4 (2006–2010, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH or ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The SOHC 16-valve layout provides smooth, economical performance suited to city and highway use but requires timely timing belt service every 60,000 km or 4 years—failure risks valve-piston contact as the G4EP is an interference engine. Early hydraulic lash adjusters (pre-2006) are prone to oil starvation under high-temperature conditions; inspect for ticking noise during warm-up. Use only API SG/SH or ACEA A3/B3 (10W-30) oil; modern low-viscosity oils may reduce HLA lubrication. Fuel system is compatible with standard EN 228 petrol but sensitive to ethanol blends above E5.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH or ACEA A3/B3 (10W-30) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual 2003). Not compatible with modern GF-6 or low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2010 models; Euro 4 applies to select 2006–2010 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5432).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by application and altitude compensation (Hyundai TIS Doc. H‑01‑012).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H‑00‑155, H‑01‑012
Hyundai Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5432)
ISO 1585:1995 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Hyundai G4EP was used across Hyundai's LC/TB platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Getz and modified accessory brackets in the Verna—and from 2006 the Accent II adopted an updated cylinder head with improved oil galleries, 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‑00‑152). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('P' for G4EP series). Pre-2006 units have a silver valve cover and mechanical throttle body; post-2006 revisions use a black valve cover and electronic throttle control. Critical differentiation from G4ED: G4EP is 1.6L with 16 valves; G4ED is 1.4L with 16 valves. Cylinder heads are not interchangeable across 2005/2006 production break due to oil gallery redesign (Hyundai TSB‑04‑11).
The G4EP's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear in pre-2006 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates and extended oil intervals. Hyundai internal quality data from 2005 indicated a notable share of early engines requiring HLA replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show MOT advisories linked to valve train noise in fleet vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect viscosity amplify HLA stress, making OEM-spec maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2004–2009) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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