The Kia Sportage IV, specifically the facelifted version introduced in July 2018, represented a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. This variant, powered by a 1.6-liter GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine producing 132 horsepower, was offered from 2018 through 2021. It occupied a mid-range position within the Sportage IV lineup, serving as a more affordable and fuel-efficient alternative to the higher-powered engine options while offering a more refined experience than the base models. The Sportage IV, built on the PQY platform, aimed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a practical, stylish, and well-equipped SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.2 l/100 km (29 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2-6.6 l/100 km (37.9 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9-7.2 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 161 Nm @ 4850 rpm (118.75 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415-1543 kg (3119.54 – 3401.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 457-585 kg (1007.51 – 1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 503 l (17.76 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1492 l (52.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4485 mm (176.57 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1635-1645 mm (64.37 – 64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1613-1625 mm (63.5 – 63.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625-1636 mm (63.98 – 64.41 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.8° |
| Departure angle | 26.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.3° |
| 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 | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16; 225/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sportage variant is the G4FD 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (GDI) technology, which improves combustion efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G4FD engine features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance performance and fuel economy across the engine’s operating range. The engine produces 132 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 161 Nm (118.75 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission paired with this engine was a six-speed manual transmission, although a six-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission was designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI engine with the manual transmission offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.9 seconds, and the top speed was around 113 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided sufficient power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, slightly dulled the driving experience, resulting in a slower 0-60 mph time of 11.5 seconds. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often felt strained during hard acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter engine options, this variant felt noticeably less responsive. However, it excelled in fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption figures of 6.9-7.2 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.7 US mpg).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 GDI Sportage typically came equipped with a respectable array of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the range, featuring a modern and user-friendly design.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage IV utilized an independent suspension system on all four wheels, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was designed to balance ride comfort with handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 GDI Sportage was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable option within the compact SUV segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power and refinement of its competitors. Compared to the 2.0-liter diesel and gasoline variants, the 1.6 GDI offered lower running costs but compromised on performance. The diesel models were favored by those prioritizing fuel economy and torque, while the gasoline models appealed to drivers seeking a more responsive driving experience.
Legacy
The 1.6 GDI engine, while not known for any major reliability issues, requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Like many direct-injection engines, it can be susceptible to carbon buildup on the intake valves over time, potentially leading to reduced power and fuel economy. The Sportage IV, in general, has proven to be a reliable vehicle, and the 1.6 GDI variant remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability and fuel efficiency. Its blend of practicality, style, and value continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
