The Hyundai i40 Sedan (facelift, 2015) 1.7 CRDI Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of Hyundai’s D-segment offering, produced from 2015 to 2018. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the i40 range, this variant aimed to provide a comfortable and economical driving experience for families and commuters. It served as a key model in Hyundai’s efforts to establish a stronger presence in the European and global mid-size sedan market, competing with established rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Toyota Camry. This specific configuration, combining the 1.7-liter diesel engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of use and fuel economy over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | i40 |
| Generation | i40 Sedan (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CRDI (141 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.1 l/100 km (48 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 129-134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 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 capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1524 kg (3359.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 576 kg (1269.86 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 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 | 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 and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic 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 |
| 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 Automatic is the U II / D4FD 1.7-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving efficiency. The engine also features Hyundai’s D-CVVT (Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing) technology, which adjusts the timing of both intake and exhaust valves to enhance performance and reduce emissions across the engine’s operating range. The engine produces 141 horsepower at 4,000 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 the engine, providing strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its balance of efficiency and drivability, catering to drivers who prefer the convenience of an automatic over a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The i40 1.7 CRDI Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine’s torque provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and responsive performance. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices a small degree of fuel economy and responsiveness, but gains in convenience. Against higher-output i40 models, such as those equipped with the 1.6 T-GDI gasoline engine, the 1.7 CRDI Automatic feels less powerful, particularly at higher speeds. However, it compensates with significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine speed at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i40 1.7 CRDI Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally 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, a reversing camera, and leather upholstery. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
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 suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The chassis is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing stability and ride quality over sharp cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the i40 offered a competitive price point and a longer warranty, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.7 CRDI Automatic consistently outperformed gasoline-powered i40 models, achieving combined fuel consumption figures in the range of 4.9-5.1 l/100 km. Reliability proved to be generally good, with few widespread issues reported.
Legacy
The Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDI Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The 1.7-liter diesel engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, is generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional attention to the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Today, these i40s represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped mid-size sedan. Their relatively low running costs and comfortable ride continue to make them a popular choice among commuters and families.
