The Kia Retona (CE), produced between 1997 and 2003, was Kia’s entry into the compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) market. Based on the Mazda Bongo Friendee platform, the Retona aimed to provide affordable four-wheel drive capability and practicality. The 2.0 i 16V variant, equipped with a 136 horsepower engine, represented a mid-range offering within the Retona lineup, positioned between the base models and potentially any limited-edition or higher-trim level options offered in specific markets. It was primarily sold in Asia, South America, and parts of Europe, and was not officially offered in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Retona |
| Generation | Retona (CE) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 16V (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 4000 rpm (133.5 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | FE |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 394 l (13.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4000 mm (157.48 in.) |
| Width | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Height | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Retona 2.0 i 16V utilized Kia’s FE engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high output for its displacement. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine’s 9.2:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the quality of fuel available in the target markets. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis, a common configuration for four-wheel-drive vehicles. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driver control. While an automatic transmission was available on some Retona models, it wasn’t commonly paired with the 2.0L engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 horsepower and 181 Nm (133.5 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0-liter engine offered adequate, though not exceptional, performance for the Retona. Acceleration was reasonable for everyday driving, but the vehicle’s weight of 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs) meant it wasn’t particularly quick. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, improving responsiveness. Compared to potential higher-output engines (if offered in some markets), the 2.0L provided a more economical driving experience. The four-wheel-drive system enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it suitable for light off-road use, but it wasn’t designed for serious rock crawling or challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 i 16V Retona typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as a value-oriented SUV. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat spartan, design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and potentially power windows and door locks, depending on the specific market and trim package. Safety features were limited by the standards of the late 1990s and early 2000s, with ABS being a notable inclusion on some models.
Chassis & Braking
The Retona utilized a body-on-frame construction, common for SUVs of its era, providing robustness and off-road capability. Front suspension consisted of a wishbone setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, a cost-saving measure typical for this class of vehicle. The hydraulic power steering provided reasonable assistance at low speeds, making maneuvering easier. The 215/75 R15 tires were a compromise between on-road comfort and off-road traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Retona was generally well-received as an affordable and practical SUV, particularly in markets where it was offered. Critics noted its value for money and its capable four-wheel-drive system. However, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior, its somewhat unrefined engine, and its limited safety features. Compared to competitors like the Suzuki Vitara or the Daihatsu Terios, the Retona offered a larger interior and a more robust feel, but lacked the refinement and brand recognition of some of its rivals. Fuel economy was average for its class, with reported figures of around 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg) in urban driving and 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) on the highway.
Legacy
The Kia Retona, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in establishing Kia as a credible player in the global automotive market. The 2.0 i 16V variant, with its reliable FE engine and practical five-speed manual transmission, has proven to be relatively durable in the used car market. While finding parts may become increasingly challenging as the vehicle ages, the Retona remains a relatively affordable and capable option for those seeking a basic, no-frills SUV. Its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain for those with some mechanical aptitude. Today, the Retona is often seen as a collectible vehicle in some regions, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its retro styling and rugged character.
