The Hyundai G4HD 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 continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 91–97 kW (124–132 PS) and torque figures between 154–161 Nm, optimized for urban efficiency and smooth low‑rpm response.
Fitted to models such as the i30 (GD), Elantra (MD), and Veloster (JS), the G4HD was engineered for compact car applications prioritizing fuel economy, refinement, and emissions compliance. Emissions control was achieved through precise electronic fuel injection, a three‑way catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing consistent Euro 5 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake CVVT actuator, which can cause rough idle or hesitation under light load. This issue, referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB-11-HD-005, stems from internal solenoid contamination due to infrequent oil changes or use of non‑specified oil viscosity. From 2015, Hyundai introduced a revised actuator with improved filtration and solenoid sealing.
Hyundai
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Hyundai G4HD is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2010–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with intake-side CVVT to deliver responsive low-end torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with urban fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 91–97 kW (124–132 PS) | |
| Torque | 154–161 Nm @ 4,850 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The G4HD provides smooth, quiet operation ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent CVVT solenoid clogging and timing chain wear. Hyundai SP 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 oil is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting catalytic converters and valve train components. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate oil degradation. Early engines (pre-2015) should be inspected for CVVT actuator faults; affected units may require solenoid replacement per TSB-11-HD-005. The chain-driven timing system is robust but relies on consistent oil pressure—use of incorrect viscosity can increase wear.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W‑20 or 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) specification (Hyundai Owner’s Manual i30 1.6 2013).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model calibration (Hyundai PT-2015).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-TIS-G4HD-001, TSB-11-HD-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4HD was used across Hyundai's GD/MD platforms with transverse mounting and no hybrid variants. This engine received platform-specific intake manifolds—shorter runners in the Veloster for throttle response and acoustic tuning in the i30—and from 2015 the CVVT actuator revision improved reliability, creating service part distinctions. 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-TIS-G4HD-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for G4HD series). Visual differentiation: G4HD uses a single CVVT actuator on the intake cam only, whereas G4FG/G4FC engines feature dual CVVT. Service parts for pre-2015 CVVT actuators are not interchangeable with post-2015 units due to internal filtration redesign (Hyundai TSB-11-HD-005).
The G4HD's primary reliability risk is CVVT actuator malfunction in pre-2015 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. Hyundai internal service data from 2014 indicated a measurable subset of early engines exhibiting DTCs P0011/P0014 due to solenoid sticking, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures tied to this engine. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-specified oil amplify contamination risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2011–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4HD.
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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)
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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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