The Hyundai G4HG is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 91–97 kW (124–132 PS) with torque between 154–161 Nm, offering responsive urban performance and smooth highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the i30 (FD), Veloster (JS), and Elantra (MD), the G4HG was engineered for refined drivability, fuel efficiency, and low emissions in compact and midsize applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed‑loop fuel system, three‑way catalytic converter, and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is excessive carbon buildup on intake valves due to the port‑fuel injection design, which lacks the cleaning effect of direct injection. This issue, referenced in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑089, can lead to rough idle and reduced efficiency over time. From 2013 onward, revised intake manifold geometry and updated ECU calibration were introduced to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Hyundai
All production years (2010–2016) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Hyundai G4HG is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and midsize hatchbacks and sedans (2010–2016). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with serviceability.
| 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 | 91–97 kW (124–132 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 154–161 Nm @ 4,850 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The DOHC layout provides linear throttle response ideal for mixed driving but is susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup due to port fuel injection lacking fuel-wash effect. Hyundai SP 5W‑30 oil (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) is essential to maintain valve train and timing chain durability. The engine uses a maintenance-free timing chain, but extended oil intervals can accelerate wear on tensioners. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards; ethanol blends above E10 may degrade injector seals over time. Post-2013 models feature revised intake runners and updated ECU maps per TSB‑ENG‑089 to reduce deposit formation.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) (Hyundai Owner’s Manual FD/JS/MD). ACEA A5/B5 oils are not recommended.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all G4HG production years (2010–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model calibration (Hyundai PT‑2014).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑G4HG‑001, ENG‑G4HG‑002, TSB‑ENG‑089
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4HG was used across Hyundai's FD/JS/MD platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Veloster JS and updated intake manifolds in the i30 FD—and from 2013 the facelifted Elantra MD adopted updated ECU calibration per TSB‑ENG‑089, 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‑G4HG‑005). The 7th VIN digit for G4HG-equipped vehicles is typically 'H'. All units feature black cam covers; pre-2013 engines have smooth intake manifolds, while post-2013 units feature ribbed runners per TSB‑ENG‑089. Critical differentiation from G4FG (1.4L): G4HG has larger displacement (1,591 cc vs. 1,396 cc) and higher power output. Service parts require verification—ECU calibrations before 01/2013 are not interchangeable with later units due to intake airflow mapping changes (Hyundai TSB‑ENG‑089).
The G4HG's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to its port-fuel injection design, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Hyundai internal service data from 2014 indicated measurable deposit accumulation in engines exceeding 70,000 km without intake cleaning, while UK DVSA MOT records show low failure rates overall due to robust emissions hardware. Extended oil intervals and infrequent highway driving increase deposit formation, making periodic intake maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4HG.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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