The SsangYong G23D is a 2,260 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 129 kW (175 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing linear power delivery suitable for mid‑size SUV applications.
Fitted to models such as the Rexton W (Y400) and Korando C (C200), the G23D was engineered for dependable everyday performance with emphasis on smoothness and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed‑loop three‑way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing adherence to Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes in high‑mileage units, highlighted in SsangYong Service Bulletin SB‑ENG‑2017‑09. This issue is attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high‑load conditions. From 2018 onward, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil specifications were introduced to mitigate the problem.
All production years (2013–2020) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
The SsangYong G23D is a 2,260 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid‑size SUVs (2013–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and dependable drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,260 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 129 kW (175 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Denso) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B4 or SsangYong Longlife 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear, especially under sustained load or hot climates. ACEA A3/B4 (or SsangYong Longlife 5W‑30) oil is critical due to its high shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting cam lobes. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate oil contamination; periodic oil analysis is advised for high‑mileage engines. Post‑2018 models feature hardened camshafts per SB‑ENG‑2017‑09. The EGR system should be inspected every 60,000 km to maintain emissions compliance and prevent rough idle.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B4 or SsangYong Longlife 5W-30 (SsangYong SB‑ENG‑2017‑09). Not compatible with C‑category low‑SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all G23D production years (2013–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output verified on dynamometer per SsangYong PT‑2019.
SsangYong Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑G23D‑A, FUE‑G23D‑02
SsangYong Service Bulletin SB‑ENG‑2017‑09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8765)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The SsangYong G23D was used across SsangYong's Y400 and C200 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Rexton W and revised intake manifolds in the Korando C—and from 2018 the facelifted Rexton W LCI adopted updated camshafts and oil pump revisions, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head flange (SsangYong TIS ENG‑G23D‑A). The 7th VIN digit for G23D-equipped vehicles is 'G'. Pre-2018 units have silver cam covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2018 models use all-black cam covers and updated oil filler caps. Critical differentiation from diesel variants: G23D lacks turbo plumbing and features a Denso intake manifold with four individual throttle bodies. Service parts for camshafts require production date verification—units before 01/2018 use part number 0K01A23001A, while later engines require 0K01A23002B (SsangYong SB‑ENG‑2017‑09).
The G23D's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in pre-2018 builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or hot-climate use. SsangYong internal quality data from 2017 indicated a measurable increase in camshaft replacements before 150,000 km in fleet vehicles, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended oil intervals and low-quality oil dramatically accelerate wear, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from SsangYong technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SSANGYONG G23D.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SSANGYONG or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
SSANGYONG Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSSANGYONG documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
