The SsangYong E20 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 105 kW (143 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm responsiveness for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Kyron and Rexton II SUVs, the E20 was engineered for dependable performance and moderate fuel economy in mid‑size applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed‑loop catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, highlighted in SsangYong Service Bulletin ENG‑05‑2008. This issue is attributed to insufficient surface hardening during early production batches. From mid‑2008, revised camshafts with improved metallurgy were introduced to address the defect.
All production years (2005–2010) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/SY204).
The SsangYong E20 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size SUVs (2005–2010). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive low‑end torque and smooth highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The E20 delivers linear power delivery suited to SUV applications but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using ACEA A3/B3 or API SL/CF oil to prevent camshaft wear. Early‑build engines (pre‑mid‑2008) are prone to exhaust cam lobe degradation due to metallurgical defects; owners should inspect for ticking noises or misfires. The Bosch ME7.5 ECU demands 95 RON minimum fuel to prevent knock and maintain emissions compliance. Valve clearance must be checked every 40,000 km as hydraulic lifters are not used.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 or API SL/CF (SAE 10W-40) per SsangYong Owner Manual 2007. Not compatible with low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all E20 models (2005–2010) under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/SY204.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on Kyron 2.0 XVT (2007) chassis dyno per SsangYong PT‑2009.
SsangYong Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑2005, SY‑E20‑001
SsangYong Service Bulletin ENG‑05‑2008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/SY204)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The SsangYong E20 was used across SsangYong's Kyron and Rexton II platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Rexton II for towing and modified intake manifolds in the Kyron for packaging—and from mid-2008 the camshaft metallurgy was upgraded, creating interchange limits for cylinder head components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (SsangYong TIS ENG‑2005). The 7th VIN digit is 'E' for E20-equipped vehicles. Pre-mid-2008 engines have silver cam covers with 'E20' cast into the alloy; post-upgrade units retain the same marking but feature revised camshafts (verify via production date code on cylinder head). Critical differentiation from diesel variants: E20 uses a throttle body and lacks a high-pressure fuel rail. Cylinder heads from pre- and post-2008 engines are not interchangeable due to camshaft lobe geometry changes (SsangYong SIB ENG‑05‑2008).
The E20's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high‑load or hot‑climate use. SsangYong internal quality data from 2008 indicated cam failure in a notable share of pre‑mid‑2008 engines before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show secondary issues with ignition coil failures in high‑humidity environments. Extended oil intervals and low‑quality oil accelerate cam wear, making adherence to OEM oil specs and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from SsangYong technical bulletins (2005–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SSANGYONG E20.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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SSANGYONG Official Site
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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)
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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.
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