The 1.6-liter Hyundai-Kia G4LL (Smartstream G1.6 GDi Hybrid) has been produced since 2021 for the hybrid second-generation Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona. There are versions for both Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid powertrains; the engine itself produces 105 hp and 144 Nm, the Hybrid system 129-141 hp and the Plug-in Hybrid 171-183 hp.
Kappa R4 family: G4LA, G4LF, G4LC, G4LD, G4LG, G4LH, G4LE, G4LL.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2021 |
| Displacement, cc | 1580 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 105 |
| Torque output, Nm | 144 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 72.0 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 97.0 |
| Compression ratio | 13.0 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on both shafts |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-16 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.8 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Kia Niro HEV 2024) — city — highway — combined |
5.2 3.8 4.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 118 |
The engine was installed on:
- Hyundai Kona 2 (SX2) since 2023;
- Kia Niro 2 (SG2) since 2021.
Disadvantages of the Hyundai-Kia G4LL engine
- The engine is new, so there is little failure statistics;
- Forums regularly report only electrical glitches and occasional oil leaks from various places;
- Like all direct-injection engines, it suffers from carbon deposits on the intake valves;
- Outside its home markets, spare parts and used engines are hard to find.
Frequently asked questions about the Hyundai-Kia G4LL
How much power does the Hyundai-Kia G4LL make?
The Hyundai-Kia G4LL develops 105 hp and 144 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Hyundai-Kia G4LL take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.8 liters. Recommended oil: 0W-16.
Does the Hyundai-Kia G4LL have a timing belt or chain?
The Hyundai-Kia G4LL uses a timing chain.
Is the Hyundai-Kia G4LL turbocharged?
No, the Hyundai-Kia G4LL is naturally aspirated.
Does the Hyundai-Kia G4LL need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Hyundai-Kia G4LL has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Hyundai-Kia G4LL last?
The typical lifespan of the Hyundai-Kia G4LL is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Hyundai-Kia G4LL?
Kia Niro HEV 2024: city 5.2, highway 3.8, combined 4.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Hyundai-Kia G4LL installed on?
Hyundai Kona 2 (SX2) since 2023; Kia Niro 2 (SG2) since 2021.
What are the common problems of the Hyundai-Kia G4LL?
The engine is new, so there is little failure statistics. Forums regularly report only electrical glitches and occasional oil leaks from various places. All known problems.
