The Hyundai G4LA is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2014. It features dual 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 144–147 Nm, offering responsive low‑end performance for compact applications.
Fitted to models such as the i30 (FD), Getz (TB), and Lavita (FC), including the 1.6 GL and 1.6 GLS variants, the G4LA was engineered for urban efficiency, refinement, and cost‑effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 4 standards across most European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes in early‑production units, particularly under high‑temperature or oil‑degradation conditions. This issue, highlighted in Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑06‑EM‑018, is attributed to insufficient surface hardening on cam lobes manufactured before mid‑2008. From 2008 onward, Hyundai implemented revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve train components.
Hyundai
Production years 2006–2014 meet Euro 4 standards; no Euro 5 variants were produced for this engine family (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892).
The Hyundai G4LA is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2006–2014). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear throttle response and dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances fuel economy with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 81–85 kW (110–116 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 144–147 Nm @ 4,500 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 10W‑30 or ACEA A3/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 122 kg |
The G4LA delivers smooth, predictable power ideal for city driving but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent camshaft lobe wear and sludge buildup. Use of SP 10W‑30 or ACEA A3/B3 oil is critical due to its high‑temperature stability under sustained load. Engines built before mid‑2008 are susceptible to exhaust cam wear—inspect during major services per TSB‑06‑EM‑018. The non‑interference design reduces catastrophic failure risk if timing components degrade, though chain tensioners should still be inspected at 150,000 km. Fuel injectors may clog with low‑quality petrol; EN 228‑compliant fuel is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires Hyundai SP 10W‑30 or ACEA A3/B3 (Hyundai Owner Manual 2008). Not compatible with low‑SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2014 G4LA units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by model application (Hyundai PT‑2018).
Hyundai Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM‑G4LA‑01, EM‑G4LA‑02, TSB‑06‑EM‑018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5892)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Hyundai G4LA was used across Hyundai's FD/TB/FC platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the i30 FD and modified accessory drives in the Lavita FC—and from mid‑2008 the facelifted Getz TB adopted updated camshafts and valve springs, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the cylinder head flange (Hyundai TIS EM‑G4LA‑04). The 7th VIN digit is 'L' for G4LA-equipped vehicles. Pre-mid‑2008 engines have silver cam covers with ‘G4LA’ cast into the valve cover; post-mid‑2008 units use black covers with updated camshaft part numbers. Critical differentiation from G4GC: G4LA has smaller 1.6L displacement and distinct intake manifold. Camshafts and lifters are not interchangeable—verify production date before replacement (TSB‑06‑EM‑018).
The G4LA's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on pre-mid‑2008 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequent-oil-change scenarios. Hyundai internal field data from 2009 indicated cam wear in a measurable subset of engines before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates overall due to the engine’s non-interference design. Extended oil intervals and low-quality lubricants accelerate wear, making oil specification and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Hyundai technical bulletins (2006–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HYUNDAI G4LA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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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