The Kia Sportage IV 1.7 CRDi (141 hp) DCT represents a significant entry point into the fourth generation of Kia’s popular compact SUV, produced from 2016 to 2018. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible option within the Sportage IV lineup, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality over outright performance. This variant utilized a diesel engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a combination aimed at providing a balance between efficiency and driving convenience. The Sportage IV, designated as the QL series, was a crucial model for Kia, representing a substantial step forward in design, technology, and overall refinement compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CRDi (141 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 141 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | U II / D4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1685 cm3 (102.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395-1544 kg (3075.45 – 3403.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541-690 kg (1192.7 – 1521.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 491 l (17.34 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1492 l (52.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4480 mm (176.38 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2085 mm (82.09 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1609-1625 mm (63.35 – 63.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620-1636 mm (63.78 – 64.41 in.) |
| Front overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 302 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16; 225/60 R17; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sportage variant is the U II / D4FD 1.7-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Kia/Hyundai’s U-series, known for its relatively compact size and focus on fuel efficiency. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with an intercooler, enhancing power output and torque. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further contributes to efficient engine breathing. Paired with this engine is a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). DCTs offer faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions, contributing to a more responsive driving experience and improved fuel economy. The DCT in the Sportage IV is designed for both efficiency and durability, offering both automatic and manual shift modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 141 hp output and 340 Nm of torque, delivered between 1750-2500 rpm, provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.9 seconds, and top speed is rated at 115 mph. The DCT helps to maximize the available power, providing quick shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal torque band. Compared to higher-output versions of the Sportage IV, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter diesel or gasoline engines, this variant feels less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the 1.7 CRDi DCT excels in urban driving and on the highway, offering smooth and efficient cruising. The DCT’s programming prioritizes fuel economy, resulting in slightly less aggressive shift points compared to sportier settings found in some other DCT-equipped vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CRDi DCT typically came as a mid-range trim level, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, featuring a modern and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option on some trims. The suspension consists of independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS and ESC, enhancing stability and control during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Sportage IV 1.7 CRDi DCT was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. It was often praised as a practical and sensible choice for buyers seeking a compact SUV with low running costs. Compared to the more powerful engine options, the 1.7 CRDi DCT offered significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for those covering long distances. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage IV offered a compelling package with a longer warranty and a more modern design.
Legacy
The 1.7 CRDi engine, when paired with the DCT transmission, has proven to be relatively reliable in the long term. While diesel engines, in general, require diligent maintenance (including regular DPF regeneration), this powertrain has not been plagued by widespread issues. On the used car market, the Sportage IV 1.7 CRDi DCT represents a good value proposition, offering a well-equipped and fuel-efficient SUV at a competitive price. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and affordability continues to make it a popular choice among used car buyers.
