The Kia G4NA is a 1,591 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features gasoline direct injection (GDI), dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivered 150–156 kW (204–211 PS) and 265 Nm of torque, enabling strong acceleration and overtaking capability.
Fitted primarily to the pro_cee’d GT and later Ceed GT, the G4NA was engineered for spirited performance in a compact package. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter and engine management strategies, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger’s electronic wastegate actuator, which can lead to boost control faults. This issue, addressed in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB-G4NA-13-02, prompted a revised actuator design for improved durability in later production units.
Kia
Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Kia G4NA is a 1,591 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks (2011-2018). It combines gasoline direct injection with dual CVVT and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and responsive torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances high performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,591 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Twin-Scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.4 mm | |
| Power output | 150–156 kW (204–211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Garrett) with electronic wastegate | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Kia Genuine 5W‑30 (API SN) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong mid-range pull, ideal for spirited driving. The GDI system necessitates periodic induction cleaning (every 60,000–80,000 km) to mitigate intake valve carbon buildup. Kia Genuine 5W-30 oil is critical for protecting turbo bearings and variable valve timing components. The engine's performance orientation means fuel economy is moderate; expect higher consumption under spirited driving. The electronic wastegate actuator should be monitored for faults per TSB-G4NA-13-02.
Oil Specs: Requires Kia Genuine 5W-30 meeting API SN specification (Kia Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2011–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are for the standard tune (Kia TIS Doc. G4NA-ENG-001).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G4NA-ENG-001, G4NA-TURBO-005, G4NA-FUEL-010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia G4NA was used exclusively in Kia's performance-oriented compact platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the pro_cee’d GT for handling loads-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Kia TIS G4NA-ENG-001). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'N' for vehicles equipped with the G4NA engine. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its red valve cover and prominent twin-scroll turbocharger inlet on the front. Differentiation from the naturally aspirated Gamma 1.6: The G4NA uses a different intake manifold, turbocharger, and high-pressure fuel pump. Service parts are generally consistent across model years, but turbo actuators may vary per TSB-G4NA-13-02.
The G4NA's primary reliability consideration is electronic wastegate actuator failure, inherent to its early turbo design. While not a catastrophic failure, it can lead to drivability issues if neglected. Kia's TSB-G4NA-13-02 provides a specific replacement procedure, and adherence to recommended service intervals is the best preventative measure.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2013-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA G4NA-TURBO.
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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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