The Hyundai G4FD is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Hyundai’s Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D‑CVVT) system. In standard form it delivered 94–103 kW (128–140 PS) with torque figures between 157–167 Nm, offering responsive low‑rpm performance for compact and subcompact vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the i30 (FD/GE), ix20, and Kia Venga, the G4FD was engineered for urban efficiency, smooth refinement, and dependable daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early-build units, linked to piston ring design and cylinder wall finish. This issue was noted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB-10-EM-003 and primarily affected engines produced before mid-2012. From 2013 onward, Hyundai implemented revised piston assemblies and updated ring tension specifications to mitigate the problem.
Hyundai
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4FD is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2010–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with Dual CVVT to deliver smooth throttle response and fuel-efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with low maintenance demands.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 94–103 kW (128–140 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 157–167 Nm @ 4,850 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Hyundai Genuine 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Dual CVVT system provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires consistent oil quality to maintain cam phaser function. Hyundai Genuine 5W-30 (API SN) oil is critical due to its shear stability and low volatility, which protect the timing chain and variable valve train. Engines built before 06/2012 may exhibit elevated oil consumption; owners should monitor levels between services. The timing chain is designed for life but relies on clean oil—extended intervals risk premature wear. Fuel injectors are robust but benefit from periodic cleaning to maintain idle smoothness.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai Genuine 5W-30 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Hyundai SIB TSB-10-EM-003).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all G4FD production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power varies by model calibration (Hyundai TIS Doc. HEM-G4FD-04).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs HEM-G4FD-01 through HEM-G4FD-04, TSB-10-EM-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4FD was used across Hyundai's FD/GE platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Kia under the Hyundai–Kia alliance. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the ix20 and modified intake manifolds in the i30 FD—and from 2012 the facelifted i30 GD retained the same block but with updated ECU calibration, creating minor tuning differences. Partnerships enabled Kia Venga and Hyundai ix20 to use identical powertrains. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-left side of the block near the timing cover (Hyundai TIS HEM-G4FD-02). The 7th VIN digit for Hyundai i30 is 'G' for 1.6L MPi variants. Early engines (pre-2013) have silver valve covers with a single oil filler cap; post-2013 units retain the same appearance but feature internal piston revisions. Critical differentiation from Theta II (G4FG): G4FD uses MPi (not GDi), lacks direct injectors, and has a simpler intake manifold without high-pressure fuel rails. Service parts for pistons and rings are production-date sensitive—verify build date before ordering (Hyundai TSB-10-EM-003).
The G4FD's primary reliability risk is elevated oil consumption in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or warm-climate use. Hyundai internal field data from 2013 indicated a subset of pre-2013 engines required piston ring replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust Euro 5 compliance. Extended oil change intervals and infrequent level checks increase ring coking risk, making proactive monitoring critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4FD.
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