The Kia Sportage IV, specifically the 1.6 CRDi (136 hp) All-Wheel Drive variant produced from July 2018 to July 2021, represents a key offering within the fourth generation of Kia’s popular compact SUV. This model arrived as part of the facelift for the Sportage IV, bringing updated styling and refinements to the already successful SL platform. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability for buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. The 1.6 CRDi AWD trim was particularly important in markets where all-wheel drive was highly valued, offering a more secure driving experience in inclement conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) AWD |
| 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) | 5.4-5.6 l/100 km (43.6 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-5.0 l/100 km (48 – 47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 134-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1577-1735 kg (3476.69 – 3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2195 kg (4839.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-618 kg (1014.13 – 1362.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1469 l (51.88 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 | 750 kg (1653.47 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° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 D4FE 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Kia/Hyundai’s U2 family of diesel engines, known for its relatively compact size and focus on efficiency. The D4FE 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 output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. This torque band is particularly useful for everyday driving and towing. The engine features a 16:1 compression ratio and 4 valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. A 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi AWD Sportage offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.8 seconds, and the top speed is 111.85 mph. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction, particularly on slippery surfaces, making it a confident choice for drivers in regions with challenging weather conditions. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.6 CRDi feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, it compensates with better fuel economy and a lighter front-end feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi AWD trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The interior design was functional and modern, with a focus on practicality and durability.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage IV utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system employs a dynamic torque vectoring system, which can distribute power between the front and rear axles as needed to optimize traction. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi AWD Sportage was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, it offered a more affordable entry point into the Sportage range. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy figures of 46.1-45.2 US mpg combined were competitive within its class. Reliability reports suggest that the D4FE engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Kia Sportage IV 1.6 CRDi AWD has proven to be a reliable and popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile family SUV. While the DPF system requires attention, the engine itself is generally considered durable. The Sportage IV helped solidify Kia’s reputation for producing high-quality, well-equipped vehicles at competitive prices, and this particular variant remains a strong contender for those seeking a dependable and economical SUV.
