The Hyundai i40 Sedan (facelift, 2015) 1.7 CRDI, producing 141 horsepower, represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s D-segment offering, primarily aimed at the European market. Introduced as a more sophisticated and stylish alternative to traditional Japanese and European competitors, the i40 sought to establish Hyundai as a serious contender in the mid-size sedan class. The facelifted model, launched in 2015, brought revised styling, improved equipment levels, and refinements to the powertrain. This particular 1.7 CRDI variant occupied a middle ground in the i40 lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for everyday driving. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2018.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i40 |
| Generation | i40 Sedan (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CRDI (141 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3-5.9 l/100 km (44.4 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-130 g/km |
| 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 | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 141 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| 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 | 15.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | D-CVVT |
| 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 | 1507 kg (3322.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 583 kg (1285.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 506 l (17.87 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 | 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 | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.94 m (35.89 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 four-cylinder, inline diesel engine displacing 1685cc. It utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Hyundai’s Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) technology is employed to optimize valve timing based on engine load and speed, further enhancing performance and reducing emissions. The engine produces 141 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of modern diesel engines, providing strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard for this variant, offering precise shifts and contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The i40 1.7 CRDI with a manual transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, including highway cruising and overtaking. The strong low-end torque makes it easy to navigate city traffic without constantly shifting gears. The 6-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth and precise shifts. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 GDI gasoline engine or the higher-output diesel variants, the 1.7 CRDI prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the more sporty options. However, the trade-off is significant fuel savings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i40 1.7 CRDI typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Premium, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The i40 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel economy. The 1.7 CRDI engine was considered a good compromise between performance and efficiency. Compared to competitors like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Toyota Avensis, the i40 offered a compelling value proposition with a generous level of standard equipment and a competitive price point. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t quite as premium as those found in some of its rivals. The fuel economy of the 1.7 CRDI was consistently rated as excellent, making it an attractive option for drivers who prioritize efficiency.
Legacy
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the long term. The U II engine is known for its durability, and the 6-speed manual transmission is also generally robust. Common issues are typically related to diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly in vehicles that are primarily used for short trips. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the engine and transmission. In the used car market, the i40 1.7 CRDI remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped mid-size sedan. Its reputation for reliability and affordability continues to make it a competitive option in its segment.
