The Kia GDi Biturbo 3.3L is a 3,342 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a 24‑valve DOHC layout, gasoline direct injection, and twin turbochargers. This configuration delivers high power output and a broad, flat torque curve for assertive acceleration.
Fitted primarily to the high-performance Stinger GT (CK) and flagship K900 (KH), the GDi Biturbo was engineered for spirited driving and grand touring refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual catalytic converters and a sophisticated engine management system, meeting stringent Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is potential premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower, which can reduce fuel pressure and cause misfires. This issue, referenced in Kia Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑18‑EN‑015, is linked to lubrication characteristics under high load. Kia addressed this in later production runs with a revised follower material specification.
Kia
All production years (2016–2020) meet Euro 6b standards for the UK and EU markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/KIA/GDI33/01).
The Kia GDi Biturbo 3.3L is a 3,342 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engineered for performance sedans (2016-2020). It combines high-pressure direct injection with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver potent, sustained power and minimal turbo lag. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances exhilarating performance with controlled emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,342 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 83.8 mm | |
| Power output | 272 kW (370 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 1,300–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (Bosch HDEV6, up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin twin-scroll turbochargers (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Kia 5W‑30 (API SP, ILSAC GF-6A) | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The twin-turbo setup provides immense, lag-free power ideal for overtaking and highway cruising. Strict adherence to 10,000 km or 6-month oil change intervals using Kia 5W-30 (API SP) is critical to protect the turbos and high-pressure fuel system. The low compression ratio is optimized for boost; using fuel below 95 RON can trigger knock sensors and reduce power. The cam follower issue (TSB 18-EN-015) should be inspected if misfires or fuel pressure codes occur. The intercooler system requires periodic inspection for leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires Kia 5W-30 specification (API SP, ILSAC GF-6A) (Kia Owner's Manual). Critical for turbocharger longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all model years (2016-2020) for UK/EU (VCA Type Approval #VCA/KIA/GDI33/01).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires 95 RON (RON 95) minimum fuel quality (Kia TIS Doc. KTIS-FU-GDI33-01).
Kia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs KTIS-ENG-GDI33-01, KTIS-FI-GDI33-02, TSB 18-EN-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/KIA/GDI33/01)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Kia GDi Biturbo 3.3L was used across Kia's CK/KH platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a larger radiator in the Stinger GT for track use. 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-ENG-ID-01). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'G' for this engine. The GDi Biturbo 3.3L can be visually identified by its twin intercooler pipes running along the top of the engine and the "3.3 T-GDI" badge on the trunk lid. Differentiate from the Lambda II 3.3L V6: the Biturbo has two turbochargers visible from underneath and a more complex intake manifold.
The GDi Biturbo 3.3L's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to sustained high-RPM operation. Kia TSB 18-EN-015 documents this issue, while owner reports frequently cite intercooler leaks. Adherence to strict maintenance intervals is critical for long-term health.
Analysis derived from Kia technical bulletins (2016-2020) and aggregated owner-reported data (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about KIA GDI-BITURBO-3-3L.
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