The Kia Magentis II 2.0 CRDi, produced between 2005 and 2008, represented a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker in the mid-size sedan segment. Positioned as a competitor to established European and Japanese models, the Magentis II aimed to offer a compelling blend of value, features, and modern diesel technology. This specific 2.0 CRDi variant, generating 140 horsepower, was a key offering in many European markets, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance. It was built on the Kia ED platform, shared with the Hyundai NF Sonata.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Magentis |
| Generation | Magentis II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4EA |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2045 kg (4508.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 496 l (17.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 816 l (28.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4735 mm (186.42 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 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 suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Magentis II 2.0 CRDi is the Kia D4EA engine, a 1.991-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The D4EA is a turbocharged engine, employing a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance low-end torque and overall responsiveness. The engine also features an intercooler to further cool the intake air, increasing power output. The valvetrain is a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a good balance of fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s design prioritized refinement and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) compared to earlier diesel engines.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 305 Nm (224.96 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 CRDi engine delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 124 mph. While not a sports sedan, the engine offered strong low-end and mid-range torque, making it well-suited for overtaking and highway cruising. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the gasoline engines offered in the Magentis II, the 2.0 CRDi provided significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, particularly on long journeys. However, it lacked the outright responsiveness of the higher-powered gasoline options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Magentis II 2.0 CRDi typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, central locking, an audio system with CD player, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a trip computer. The interior design was functional and relatively modern for its time, although material quality was generally considered average compared to some European competitors. Optional extras included a navigation system and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Magentis II featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering was a hydraulic rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Magentis II 2.0 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and value-for-money option in the mid-size sedan segment. Its fuel efficiency and refined diesel engine were particularly praised. However, some critics noted that the interior quality and overall driving experience were not quite as polished as those of some established European rivals. Compared to the gasoline-powered Magentis models, the 2.0 CRDi offered superior fuel economy and torque, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized efficiency and long-distance comfort. The 2.0 CRDi was often seen as a more sensible and economical alternative to the more powerful, but less fuel-efficient, gasoline engines.
Legacy
The Kia Magentis II 2.0 CRDi has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D4EA engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on the turbocharger and potential problems with the fuel injection system. However, these issues are generally not overly expensive to repair. Today, the Magentis II 2.0 CRDi represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan. Its blend of value, features, and diesel technology continues to make it a viable choice in the used car market.
