The Hyundai G4GB is a 1,599 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2011. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 81–85 kW (110–116 PS) with torque between 144–157 Nm, providing responsive urban performance and smooth cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Getz (TB), i20 (PB), and Lavita (FC), the G4GB was engineered for economy, reliability, and low‑end drivability in compact city cars. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed‑loop fuel system, three‑way catalytic converter, and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobe, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. This issue, referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑042, is attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high‑RPM operation. From 2007 onward, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve spring retainers were introduced to mitigate wear.
Hyundai
All production years (2004–2011) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4GB is a 1,599 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2004–2011). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low‑rpm performance and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,599 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.4 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81–85 kW (110–116 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 144–157 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SL/ILSAC GF‑3) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The DOHC layout provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent camshaft lobe wear, especially in hot climates or frequent short trips. Hyundai SP 5W‑30 oil is critical due to its additive package supporting valve train durability. The engine lacks a timing belt, reducing long‑term maintenance, but the exhaust camshaft in pre‑2007 units is prone to accelerated wear under high load—addressed in TSB‑ENG‑042 with upgraded components. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards; ethanol blends above E5 may degrade injector seals over time.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SL/ILSAC GF‑3) (Hyundai Owner’s Manual TB/PB/FC). ACEA A3/B4 oils are not recommended.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all G4GB production years (2004–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model calibration (Hyundai PT‑2010).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑G4GB‑001, ENG‑G4GB‑002, TSB‑ENG‑042
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4GB was used across Hyundai's TB/PB/FC platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Lavita FC and updated intake manifolds in the i20 PB—and from 2007 the facelifted Getz TB adopted updated camshafts per TSB‑ENG‑042, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Hyundai TIS ENG‑G4GB‑005). The 7th VIN digit for G4GB-equipped vehicles is typically 'G'. Pre-2007 engines have silver cam covers with black ignition coil packs; post-2007 units feature black cam covers and updated coil brackets. Critical differentiation from G4GC (1.8L): G4GB has a single-row timing chain and smaller intake plenum. Service parts require verification—exhaust camshafts before 06/2007 are not interchangeable with later units due to lobe profile changes (Hyundai TSB‑ENG‑042).
The G4GB's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on pre-2007 builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or stop-start urban use. Hyundai internal quality data from 2008 indicated a measurable rate of cam wear in engines exceeding 120,000 km without strict oil maintenance, while UK DVSA MOT records show low failure rates overall due to robust emissions hardware. Extended oil intervals and infrequent warm-up cycles increase lobe stress, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2006–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4GB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with HYUNDAI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
HYUNDAI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHYUNDAI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
