The Hyundai Kona I 1.6 CRDi (116 hp) was a front-wheel-drive subcompact SUV produced by Hyundai from 2018 to September 2020. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the first generation (Kona I) lineup, it aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and practical option for buyers seeking a small crossover. This variant utilized Hyundai’s Smartstream diesel engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, offering a balance between economy and usability. It played a significant role in establishing the Kona as a competitive player in the rapidly growing subcompact SUV segment, particularly in European markets where diesel engines remained popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Kona |
| Generation | Kona I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-5.0 l/100 km (49 – 47 US mpg, 58.9 – 56.5 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg, 68.9 – 65.7 UK mpg, 24.4 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109-113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / 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 | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393-1510 kg (3071.04 – 3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 340-457 kg (749.57 – 1007.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 361 l (12.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1143 l (40.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4165 mm (163.98 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2070 mm (81.5 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1559-1575 mm (61.38 – 62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568-1584 mm (61.73 – 62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 845 mm (33.27 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 720 mm (28.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 171 mm (6.73 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.7° |
| Departure angle | 29.0° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.0° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| 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 torsion suspension |
| 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; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kona 1.6 CRDi utilized Hyundai’s Smartstream D4FE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine employed a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The D4FE engine was designed to meet stringent Euro 6d emission standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce particulate matter emissions. The six-speed manual transmission offered precise gear changes and contributed to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. The engine’s relatively simple design and robust construction aimed for long-term reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp output and 320 Nm of torque provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 10.2 seconds, and the top speed was around 119.92 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivered a usable amount of torque from low RPMs, making it suitable for urban and highway driving. Compared to higher-output Kona variants (like those with gasoline engines), the 1.6 CRDi felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. Base models included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels offered features like alloy wheels, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. 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 practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Kona I utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering offered light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively lightweight construction of the Kona contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kona 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was often praised for its comfortable ride and spacious interior for its size. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some of its competitors. Compared to the gasoline-powered Kona variants, the 1.6 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Against rivals like the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur, the Kona 1.6 CRDi offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value for money.
Legacy
The Hyundai Kona I 1.6 CRDi has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Smartstream diesel engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including DPF regeneration), is generally known for its durability. Common issues reported by owners include occasional DPF problems and wear and tear on suspension components. However, overall, the Kona 1.6 CRDi remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable subcompact SUV. Its blend of practicality, economy, and reliability has ensured its continued presence on roads today.
