The Hyundai G4GC-G is a 1,975 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and Hyundai’s CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) on the intake cam. In standard form it delivered 100–105 kW (136–143 PS) and torque figures between 182–186 Nm, providing responsive mid‑range performance for everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Elantra XD, Tucson JM, and Santa Fe SM, including the 2.0 GLS and 2.0 CRDi (petrol variants), the G4GC-G was engineered for balanced performance, refinement, and reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection, three‑way catalytic conversion, and precise ignition control, allowing conformity with Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the CVVT actuator solenoid, which can cause rough idle or hesitation under load. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Service Bulletin HMC‑SB‑08‑045, is often linked to oil contamination or infrequent oil changes. From 2007 onward, Hyundai revised the solenoid design and updated ECU calibration to improve durability and response.
Hyundai
All production years 2004–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Hyundai G4GC-G is a 1,975 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size SUVs and sedans (2004–2010). It combines DOHC architecture with CVVT on the intake cam to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with serviceability and reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.5 mm | |
| Power output | 100–105 kW (136–143 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 182–186 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | 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/SM) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The CVVT system enhances low-to-mid range torque but requires clean oil circulation to function reliably; infrequent oil changes can lead to solenoid clogging and erratic valve timing. Hyundai SP 5W-30 (or ACEA A3/B4 equivalent) is critical to maintain hydraulic actuator performance. The engine’s open-deck block and aluminum head demand proper warm-up before heavy loads to avoid thermal stress. No timing belt replacement is needed, but oil quality directly affects CVVT and chain longevity. Post-2007 models feature updated solenoids per Hyundai SIB HMC-SB-08-045.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W-30 or ACEA A3/B4 (Hyundai SIB HMC-SB-08-045). Avoid low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2004–2010 G4GC-G engines (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 TIS Doc. G4GC-P105).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G4GC-A102, G4GC-F201, G4GC-T301, SIB HMC-SB-08-045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4GC-G was used across Hyundai's XD/JM/SM platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Santa Fe SM and revised intake manifolds in the Tucson JM—and from 2007 the updated CVVT solenoid improved cold-start response, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the block near the exhaust manifold (Hyundai TIS G4GC-ID01). The 7th VIN digit for G4GC-G is typically 'G' (e.g., KMHJM21BPGU123456). Pre-2007 units use a black CVVT solenoid with part number 24355-23000; post-2007 revisions use grey solenoid 24355-23010. The intake manifold on Tucson JM is shorter than on Elantra XD. ECU part numbers differ by model—ensure compatibility when swapping. No interference with diesel G4GC variants, which are unrelated.
The G4GC-G's primary reliability risk is CVVT solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Hyundai internal data from 2009 indicated a notable share of 2004–2006 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show few emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic design. Extended oil change intervals and urban driving increase solenoid clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2006–2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4GC-G.
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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
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