The Suzuki K10C is a 998 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2014. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 12‑valve layout with direct fuel injection (GDI) and variable valve timing (VVT), delivering 74–88 kW (101–120 PS) and 160–170 Nm of torque. Its lightweight aluminium construction and turbocharging enable strong low‑end response while meeting modern emissions standards.
Fitted primarily to the Suzuki Baleno, Swift Sport (ZC33S), and Ignis, the K10C was engineered for agile urban performance with highway refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and particulate filter (GPF) in Euro 6d‑TEMP and later variants.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system, noted in Suzuki Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑K10‑07. This issue stems from the absence of fuel-washing over intake ports, allowing oil vapour from the PCV system to accumulate. From 2019, revised VVT calibration and enhanced PCV filtration reduced deposit formation.
Suzuki
Production years 2014–2018 meet Euro 5/6 standards; 2019–present models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP or Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7215).
The Suzuki K10C is a 998 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and crossovers (2014–present). It combines DOHC valve actuation with gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing to deliver responsive torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 through Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.4 mm | |
| Power output | 74–88 kW (101–120 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 160–170 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (Denso) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5/6 (2014–2018); Euro 6d-TEMP/6d (2019+) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI VF32 variable-geometry turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VVT | |
| Oil type | API SN/SP, ACEA C2/C5, SAE 0W‑20 | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The K10C’s turbocharged GDI layout delivers brisk acceleration and strong low‑rpm torque but is susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup due to the lack of port fuel washing. Use of 95 RON minimum fuel and ACEA C2/C5 0W‑20 oil is essential to protect turbo bearings and maintain GPF efficiency. Extended oil change intervals accelerate chain wear and turbo coking. Post-2019 engines feature revised PCV baffling and updated VVT maps to reduce deposit formation per TSB-K10-07.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C2/C5 0W‑20 specification (Suzuki Owner’s Manual 2020). API SN/SP acceptable but C2/C5 preferred for GPF compatibility.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP/6d certification applies only to 2019–present European models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7215). Earlier units meet Euro 5/6.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. 88 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Suzuki PT‑2022).
Suzuki Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K10C‑101, K10C‑102, K10C‑103
Suzuki Technical Service Bulletins: TSB‑K10‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7215)
The Suzuki K10C was used across Suzuki's Swift/Baleno/Ignis platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Swift Sport and modified turbo routing in the Ignis-and from 2019 the updated PCV and VVT calibration improved long-term cleanliness, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Suzuki TIS K10C‑104). The 6th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for K10C). Early blocks (pre-2019) have a single PCV port; post-2019 units feature dual-stage oil separators. Turbo tag reads 'IHI VF32'. Critical differentiation from K10B: K10C is turbocharged with GDI and DOHC; K10B is naturally aspirated with MPFI and SOHC. Cylinder head casting number '11100‑97A00' denotes pre-TSB revision; '11100‑97B00' indicates updated PCV/VVT calibration.
The K10C's primary reliability risk is intake valve coking due to direct injection, with elevated incidence in short‑trip urban use. Suzuki internal quality reports from 2020 noted increased service visits for idle instability in vehicles with >60,000 km and minimal highway driving, while UK DVSA MOT data shows GPF-related warnings in high‑soot conditions. Fuel quality, oil specification, and driving pattern make proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Suzuki technical bulletins (2017–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SUZUKI K10C.
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