The Kia Magentis II, specifically the 2.0 CRDi variant with an automatic transmission, was produced from 2009 to 2010 as part of the facelifted second generation of the Magentis. Introduced as a mid-size sedan, the Magentis aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped option in a segment dominated by Japanese and European competitors. This 2.0 CRDi Automatic model represented a balance within the Magentis lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance, targeting buyers who prioritized ease of driving over outright sportiness. It was positioned as a step up from the base gasoline engine options, while remaining more accessible than potential future, higher-performance trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Magentis |
| Generation | Magentis II (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 185 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.3 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 | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1547 kg (3410.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 513 kg (1130.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 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%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4800 mm (188.98 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Magentis variant is the D4EA 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a 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 an intercooler to further enhance performance by cooling the intake air. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power output. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 305 Nm (224.96 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. This torque curve is particularly well-suited to the automatic transmission, providing good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission is a conventional four-speed unit, chosen for its smoothness and ease of use, rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CRDi Automatic Magentis offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while not offering the quickest shifts, provides smooth gear changes and eliminates the need for manual clutch operation. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds, which is adequate for most driving scenarios but doesn’t position it as a particularly sporty vehicle. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it easy to maintain highway speeds and overtake slower traffic. Compared to a manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel economy, but gains in convenience. Compared to the gasoline engine options, the diesel provides significantly more torque and better fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels offered options like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a more advanced audio system. The interior design was functional and reasonably well-appointed, though it didn’t match the premium feel of some European competitors. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Magentis II utilizes an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. 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 Kia Magentis II 2.0 CRDi Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and value-for-money option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. However, some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t as high-quality as those found in some competitors, and the automatic transmission could feel somewhat sluggish. Compared to other diesel-powered sedans in its class, the Magentis offered a competitive level of equipment and a longer warranty, which was a key selling point for Kia at the time. Fuel economy was a strong point, achieving around 34.1 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Kia Magentis II, including the 2.0 CRDi Automatic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D4EA diesel engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential problems with the turbocharger. However, these are generally not major concerns. Today, the Magentis II represents an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient sedan. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it easier and less expensive to repair compared to more complex modern vehicles.
