The Hyundai i40 Combi (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.6 CRDi producing 136 horsepower represents a significant offering in the compact station wagon segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the i40 Combi lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for European buyers. The facelift brought styling updates and revised technology, building upon the original i40 (introduced in 2011) which was designed specifically for the European market, offering a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Variant, and Skoda Octavia Combi. This variant was primarily sold in Europe, where the demand for station wagons remained strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i40 |
| Generation | i40 Combi (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 122 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1524-1677 kg (3359.84 – 3697.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 453-606 kg (998.69 – 1336 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 553 l (19.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1719 l (60.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 14 l (3.7 US gal | 3.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4775 mm (187.99 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm (109.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1579-1591 mm (62.17 – 62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585-1597 mm (62.4 – 62.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/50 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The i40 Combi 1.6 CRDi utilizes the Hyundai D4FE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a common-rail direct injection (CRDi) design, employing a Bosch-supplied fuel injection system capable of multiple injections per combustion cycle. This allows for refined combustion control, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power and torque. The D4FE engine is known for its relatively simple design and robust construction. The 136 horsepower output is achieved at 4,000 rpm, while the peak torque of 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) is available between 1500 and 3000 rpm, providing good low-end and mid-range grunt. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi engine, paired with the manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.5 seconds. While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine’s torque characteristics make it well-suited for overtaking maneuvers on the highway. Compared to higher-output versions of the i40, such as the 1.7 CRDi, this variant feels less eager to rev, but offers improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long sixth gear for comfortable cruising. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, and automatic climate control.
Chassis & Braking
The i40 Combi features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with minimal body roll in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i40 Combi 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Variant, the i40 Combi offered a compelling value proposition, with a generous level of standard equipment and a long warranty. Fuel economy figures of around 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) were competitive within its class. Reliability reports generally indicated good dependability, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Hyundai i40 Combi 1.6 CRDi has proven to be a reliable and practical choice in the used car market. The D4FE engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, it can provide many years of trouble-free service. The availability of spare parts is good, and maintenance costs are generally reasonable. While not a particularly exciting car to drive, the i40 Combi 1.6 CRDi remains a sensible and affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and fuel-efficient station wagon.
