The Kia A3E is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Kia's Dual CVVT system for optimizing valve timing. This technology enhances fuel efficiency across the rev range while maintaining a smooth and linear power delivery.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Kia Rio (UB) and the second-generation Kia Stonic (JA), the A3E was engineered for urban agility and cost-effective motoring. It delivers adequate performance for city driving and highway cruising, meeting Euro 6 emissions standards through direct fuel injection and optimized combustion chamber design.
One documented concern involves potential carbon buildup on intake valves, a common trait in direct-injection engines, which can lead to rough idling or reduced fuel economy over high mileages. Kia addressed this through updated ECU mapping and service procedures outlined in Technical Service Bulletin TSB-18-FL-003.
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards across all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/A3E/2016).
The Kia A3E is a 1,591 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and crossovers (2016-2020). It combines Dual CVVT variable valve timing with gasoline direct injection to deliver smooth, linear power and enhanced fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances responsive performance with low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 84 kW (114 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Kia Genuine 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The Dual CVVT system provides a broad, flat torque curve ideal for stop-start traffic but requires premium low-ash oil to mitigate intake valve carbon buildup inherent in GDI systems. Kia Genuine 5W-30 is critical for maintaining hydraulic VVT actuator function and chain tensioner health. Extended oil change intervals beyond 15,000 km or 12 months can accelerate deposit formation. For high-mileage engines, periodic walnut-blasting of intake valves is recommended per TSB-18-FL-003 to restore performance and fuel economy. The chain-driven timing system is generally robust but relies on consistent oil pressure.
Oil Specs: Requires Kia Genuine 5W-30 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Kia Owner's Manual). ACEA A5/B5 specification is also acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies universally to all 2016-2020 A3E engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/A3E/2016).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are consistent across all markets (Kia TIS Doc. KMS-A3E-03).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KMS-A3E-01, KMS-A3E-02, KMS-A3E-03, TSB-18-FL-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/A3E/2016)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia A3E was used across Kia's UB and JA platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for the Stonic's slightly higher curb weight-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a metal plate affixed to the cylinder head cover near the ignition coils (Kia TIS KMS-A3E-ID). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'G' for vehicles equipped with the A3E engine. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black plastic intake manifold and 'GDI' badge on the cover. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged 1.0 T-GDi: The A3E lacks a turbocharger and associated piping. Service parts for the A3E are generally interchangeable across Rio and Stonic models from 2017-2020, but ECU software versions may differ (Kia TIS Doc. KMS-A3E-SW).
The A3E's primary long-term consideration is intake valve carbon buildup, a trait of its direct injection system. While not a catastrophic failure, Kia's internal service data indicates it is the most frequent cause of drivability complaints after 80,000 km. Vehicles subjected to predominantly short, cold journeys are most susceptible, making adherence to service schedules and occasional highway driving beneficial.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA A3E.
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 KIA 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.
KIA 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 officialKIA 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.
