The Kia Sportage IV (facelift, introduced in July 2018) 1.6 CRDi with 136 horsepower and a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with all-wheel drive represents a significant offering within the fourth generation (QL) Sportage lineup. Positioned as a mid-range option, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and all-weather capability for buyers seeking a practical and well-equipped compact SUV. Production of this specific configuration continued until July 2021. The Sportage IV, overall, was a crucial model for Kia, representing a substantial step forward in design, quality, and technology, and contributing significantly to the brand’s growing presence in the European and global markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) AWD DCT |
| 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) | 5.0-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg, 56.5 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1 – 44.4 US mpg, 55.4 – 53.3 UK mpg, 19.6 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg, 55.4 – 54.3 UK mpg, 19.6 – 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 133-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1593-1750 kg (3511.96 – 3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-617 kg (1014.13 – 1360.25 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Kia Sportage IV, launched in 2016 and receiving a significant facelift in 2018, quickly became a popular choice in the compact SUV segment. The 1.6 CRDi 136 hp AWD DCT variant, introduced with the facelift, was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and all-weather traction without sacrificing too much performance. This model sat in the middle of the Sportage range, offering a step up from the base engine options while remaining more accessible than the more powerful diesel or gasoline variants. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, the Sportage IV represented a major improvement in refinement and features compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sportage variant is the D4FE 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output and torque. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a respectable 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. The engine features 16 valves (4 per cylinder) and a compression ratio of 16:1. Paired with this engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience. The DCT sends power to all four wheels via Kia’s all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi with the DCT offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not exceptionally quick – 0-60 mph takes around 11.2 seconds – the engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving situations. The DCT transmission is responsive, and the all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter diesel variants, this 1.6L engine feels less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the lower engine weight contributes to slightly better handling and agility. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained at higher speeds or during aggressive acceleration. The DCT, while generally smooth, can exhibit some hesitation at low speeds or during stop-start driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi AWD DCT Sportage typically came well-equipped, even in base trim levels. Standard features often included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were generally consistent across the range, with a focus on user-friendliness and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage IV utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The all-wheel-drive system is typically an on-demand system, automatically engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost at the front.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi AWD DCT Sportage was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power compared to larger displacement alternatives. Compared to the 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.6 CRDi offered better fuel economy but less performance. Against competitors like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan, the Sportage offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting its rivals on price while offering a similar level of equipment and features. Reliability reports generally indicate good dependability for this powertrain, although DCT maintenance (fluid changes) is crucial for long-term health.
Legacy
The Kia Sportage IV, particularly the 1.6 CRDi AWD DCT variant, has proven to be a reliable and popular choice in the used car market. The D4FE engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, is generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The DCT transmission, if serviced regularly, is also relatively reliable. These Sportages continue to offer a good balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a well-rounded compact SUV. The Sportage IV cemented Kia’s reputation for producing high-quality, well-equipped vehicles that can compete effectively with established European and Japanese brands.
