The Hyundai i40 Sedan 1.7 CRDi, producing 136 horsepower, was a key model in Hyundai’s lineup from 2011 to 2015. Designed primarily for the European market, the i40 aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped mid-size sedan alternative to established competitors. It represented Hyundai’s increasing focus on offering vehicles with a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features. This particular variant, with its 1.7-liter diesel engine and six-speed manual transmission, occupied a middle ground within the i40 range, offering a balance between economy and performance. It was positioned as a sensible choice for drivers prioritizing fuel costs and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i40 |
| Generation | i40 Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CRDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 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 | 17:1 |
| 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 | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 525 l (18.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1672 l (59.05 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm (109.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.94 m (35.89 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| 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 heart of the i40 1.7 CRDi is the Hyundai-Kia U II engine, specifically the D4FD variant. This is a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine utilizing a common-rail direct injection system. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, allows for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion, contributing to both fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, which forces more air into the cylinders, boosting power output. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and contributes to the engine’s overall efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising and efficient acceleration, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp 1.7 CRDi engine in the i40 Sedan delivered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.8 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and highway merging. The engine’s strong low-end torque (325 Nm or 239.71 lb-ft) made it feel responsive in city traffic and provided good pulling power when fully loaded. Compared to the higher-output 1.6 GDI gasoline engine or the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.7 CRDi prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than an automatic, allowing drivers to better control the engine’s power delivery. However, the gear ratios were somewhat tall, aimed at maximizing fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i40 1.7 CRDi typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. Base models included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Comfort, added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The i40 Sedan featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design, while the rear employed an independent coil spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The chassis was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and stable ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and generous equipment levels. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some of its competitors. Compared to other trims in the i40 lineup, the 1.7 CRDi offered the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances. It was often seen as a more sensible alternative to the more expensive and powerful gasoline or diesel variants. Its fuel economy figures were competitive with other diesel-powered sedans in its class.
Legacy
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDi has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The U II engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, it can provide many years of trouble-free service. Common issues are typically related to diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles primarily used for short journeys. However, these issues can often be prevented with proper maintenance and occasional highway driving. Today, the i40 1.7 CRDi represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped mid-size sedan at an affordable price point.
