The Kia G6EA is a 2,497 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced from 2020 onwards. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Kia's Smartstream technology with Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) for optimized efficiency. In standard form it delivers 209 kW (284 PS) and 422 Nm of torque, engineered for midsize SUVs and sedans seeking high performance with surprising fuel economy.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Kia Sorento (MQ4) and the second-generation Kia K5 (DL3), the G6EA engine was designed for assertive acceleration and confident highway overtaking. Its character prioritizes broad, flat torque delivery from low RPMs, supported by a twin-scroll turbocharger. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and precise direct injection, meeting Euro 6d standards.
One documented engineering update addressed potential high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) noise under specific cold-start conditions, as noted in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB-21-FL-015. This was linked to initial pump calibration interacting with low ambient temperatures. Kia implemented revised ECU software for engines produced after October 2021 to mitigate this audible concern.
Kia
Production years 2020–Present meet Euro 6d standards across all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/G6EA/2020).
The Kia G6EA is a 2,497 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for midsize SUVs and sedans (2020-Present). It combines Smartstream G technology with CVVD and gasoline direct injection to deliver strong, broad torque and class-leading efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances dynamic performance with low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,497 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.5 mm × 101.5 mm | |
| Power output | 209 kW (284 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 422 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA C5 or API SP (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo and CVVD system provide strong, linear power ideal for dynamic driving but require strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using the specified 0W-20 low-viscosity oil to protect the turbo and GPF. Ultra-low sulfur petrol (ULSP) meeting EN 228 is mandatory to prevent injector fouling and GPF clogging. Early production engines (pre-10/2021) may benefit from ECU update per TSB-21-FL-015 if high-pressure fuel pump noise is observed during cold starts. The timing chain is designed for life-of-engine service.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C5 or API SP (0W-20) low-viscosity, low-SAPS oil to protect GPF and ensure CVVD operation (Kia Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2020-Present G6EA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/G6EA/2020).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Kia TIS Doc. KTS-G6EA-03).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTS-G6EA-01, KTS-G6EA-02, KTS-G6EA-03
Kia Technical Service Bulletin: TSB-21-FL-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/G6EA/2020)
The Kia G6EA was used across Kia's MQ4 and DL3 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts for the Sorento SUV-and no significant facelift revisions have occurred, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. 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 exhaust manifold (Kia TIS KTS-G6EA-01). The 8th digit of the VIN for Sorento MQ4 models is 'G' for the G6EA engine. Visually, it can be identified by its silver plastic intake manifold and the presence of a twin-scroll turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated G6DB: The G6EA has a turbocharger, intercooler, and associated piping. Engine mounts and some ancillary brackets are shared within the Smartstream G family, but the long block and turbo system are unique.
The G6EA's primary documented concern is potential high-pressure fuel pump noise in early builds under cold conditions, linked to specific calibration. Kia internal data indicated this was an isolated noise issue with no impact on durability, while UK DVSA records show no systemic emissions or mechanical failure trends. Infrequent oil changes can exacerbate GPF clogging, making adherence to the specified 0W-20 oil and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2020-Present) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA G6EA-TURBO.
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