The Kia Retona (CE) 2.0 D, produced between 1999 and 2003, was a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) marketed primarily in Europe, Asia, and select other international markets. Positioned as an affordable and rugged off-road vehicle, the Retona represented Kia’s entry into the growing SUV segment. It was based on the Mazda Bongo Friendee platform, a result of Kia’s partnership with Mazda during that period. The 2.0 D variant, equipped with an 83 horsepower diesel engine and a five-speed manual transmission, served as a base model, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and utility for buyers seeking a practical and economical SUV. It occupied the lower end of the Retona lineup, with more powerful gasoline engine options available for those prioritizing performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Retona |
| Generation | Retona (CE) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D (83 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 23.5 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 28.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 20.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 20.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 19.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 124 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 77.05 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 59.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 139.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 41.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 2000 rpm |
| Torque | 143.82 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | RF |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm |
| Piston Stroke | 3.39 in. |
| Compression ratio | 21.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.76 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.63 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1394 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 3073.24 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1903 kg |
| Max. weight | 4195.4 lbs |
| Max load | 509 kg |
| Max load | 1122.15 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 394 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 13.91 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 43.61 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 15.85 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity | 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4000 mm |
| Length | 157.48 in. |
| Width | 1745 mm |
| Width | 68.7 in. |
| Height | 1835 mm |
| Height | 72.24 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm |
| Wheelbase | 92.91 in. |
| Front track | 1440 mm |
| Front track | 56.69 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 56.69 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Retona 2.0 D was powered by Kia’s RF diesel engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder unit. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in diesel engines of the era, to improve combustion efficiency. A turbocharger was employed to boost power output to 83 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The five-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, providing a relatively simple and robust drivetrain. The engine’s longitudinal mounting within the chassis contributed to the vehicle’s four-wheel-drive capability.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 D Retona offered modest performance, reflecting its relatively low horsepower output. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 20.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 124 km/h (77.05 mph). The turbocharger helped to mitigate some of the inherent lag associated with diesel engines, providing a usable amount of torque at lower engine speeds. However, compared to the gasoline-powered Retona variants, the 2.0 D felt noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The five-speed manual transmission offered a reasonable spread of gear ratios, but required frequent shifting to maintain momentum. The focus was on fuel economy and durability rather than outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 D Retona typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, cloth upholstery, and a basic audio system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power windows and central locking. The interior design was functional and utilitarian, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly labeled controls. Exterior features typically included steel wheels, black plastic bumpers, and relatively simple body cladding.
Chassis & Braking
The Retona’s chassis featured a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and a spring strut arrangement at the rear. This suspension configuration aimed to provide a balance of ride comfort and off-road capability. The vehicle utilized ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Hydraulic power steering was standard, making maneuvering easier, especially at low speeds. The 215/75R15 tires provided adequate grip for both on-road and off-road driving conditions. The Retona’s relatively high ground clearance further enhanced its off-road prowess.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Retona 2.0 D was generally well-received as an affordable and capable SUV, particularly in markets where diesel engines were popular. Critics praised its ruggedness, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. However, the engine’s limited power output and somewhat agricultural character were often noted. Compared to the gasoline-powered Retona variants, the 2.0 D offered superior fuel economy but significantly less performance. It also provided a more economical alternative to more established SUV models from Japanese and European manufacturers. Its reliability was considered average for the period, with some reports of issues related to the fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Kia Retona, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in establishing Kia as a credible player in the global SUV market. The 2.0 D variant, with its durable diesel engine and economical operation, remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. While maintenance costs can be higher due to the age of the vehicle and the complexity of the diesel engine, the RF engine is generally considered robust if properly maintained. The Retona’s simple construction and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal among budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and capable off-road vehicle.
