The Kia D3FA is a 1,368 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and Kia's Dual CVVT system for variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This compact, lightweight unit delivers a strong power-to-weight ratio, with peak outputs of 204 PS (150 kW) and 265 Nm, making it ideal for agile hot hatches.
Fitted exclusively to the third-generation Kia Rio GT-Line (UB) and the second-generation Kia Stonic GT-Line, the D3FA was engineered for spirited performance and responsive handling. It combines direct fuel injection (GDI) with a single-scroll turbocharger to provide strong low-end torque and minimal turbo lag. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise engine management and a close-coupled catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the exhaust camshaft, potentially leading to fuel pressure faults. This issue, referenced in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB-19-FL-007, is often attributed to fuel quality or extended service intervals. Kia addressed this in later production by revising the camshaft material specification and reinforcing service schedule recommendations.
Kia
All production years 2016–2023 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/D3FA/01).
The Kia D3FA is a 1,368 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance hatchbacks (2016-2023). It combines gasoline direct injection (GDI) with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances sporty performance with modern emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,368 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 73.0 mm | |
| Power output | 204 PS (150 kW) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll, water-cooled (MHI TD025) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SP/ILSAC GF-6, SAE 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The turbocharged GDI system provides strong, immediate torque for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to protect the turbocharger and timing chain. Using the specified 5W-30 API SP oil is critical. The high-pressure fuel pump is driven directly by the exhaust camshaft; poor fuel quality or infrequent filter changes can accelerate wear on the cam lobe, as noted in TSB-19-FL-007. Carbon buildup on intake valves is common; walnut blasting is recommended every 80,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires API SP/ILSAC GF-6, SAE 5W-30 specification (Kia Owner's Manual). ACEA C2 is also acceptable for GDI engines.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models and years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/D3FA/01). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Kia TIS Doc. KTIS-D3FA-01).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTIS-D3FA-01, TSB-19-FL-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/D3FA/01)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia D3FA was used across Kia's UB platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts and exhaust routing for the Stonic crossover-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Kia TIS KTIS-D3FA-01). The 8th digit of the VIN for Rio UB GT-Line models is 'G' for the 1.4 T-GDi variant. Visually, the engine features a red plastic intake manifold and a prominent "T-GDi" badge on the front cover. Differentiation from the Gamma 1.4L (G4FA): The D3FA is a 3-cylinder with a turbocharger mounted at the rear of the engine, while the G4FA is a 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated unit. Service parts are not interchangeable.
The D3FA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or infrequent filter changes. Kia TSB-19-FL-007 documents this issue, while owner feedback frequently cites it as a concern after 80,000 km. Neglecting fuel system maintenance makes camshaft and HPFP failure critical.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2019-2023) and owner-reported failure data (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA D3FA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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