The Kia Sportage IV, specifically the 1.6 CRDi variant producing 115 horsepower, was a key offering in the European and other international markets following the model’s significant redesign in 2016 and subsequent facelift in 2018. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option, this version of the Sportage aimed to balance fuel efficiency with affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and economical compact SUV. Production of this specific configuration ran from July 2018 to September 2020, falling within the broader fourth-generation (QL) Sportage’s lifecycle. It served as a gateway into the Sportage range, offering a more accessible price point compared to higher-powered engine options and more luxurious trim levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2018 |
| End of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.8 l/100 km (52.3 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-5.0 l/100 km (49 – 47 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 126-132 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 | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 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 | 1504-1661 kg (3315.75 – 3661.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 459-616 kg (1011.92 – 1358.05 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° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sportage variant is the D4FE 1.6-liter inline-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 second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures 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 115 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm. The engine features a 16:1 compression ratio and 4 valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, designed to work in harmony with the engine’s torque curve to provide adequate acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi with the manual transmission delivers a driving experience focused on practicality and fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.2 seconds, and the top speed is 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The engine feels responsive at lower RPMs thanks to the turbocharger, providing sufficient power for everyday driving situations. However, it can feel strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The 6-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine, offering smooth shifts and allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 T-GDi gasoline engine or the 2.0 CRDi diesel, this variant offers a more economical but less exhilarating driving experience. The manual transmission provides more driver engagement than the optional automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi typically came equipped as a base or mid-range trim level, depending on the specific market. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension all around – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The chassis is tuned for comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi variant was generally well-received as a sensible and economical choice within the Sportage lineup. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to higher-powered engines. Compared to the 1.7 CRDi (available in some markets), the 1.6 offered a slight power increase but similar fuel economy. Against the gasoline-powered 1.6 T-GDi, the diesel offered better fuel economy but less refinement.
Legacy
The D4FE engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained, particularly with frequent short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 1.6 CRDi Sportage represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and economical SUV at a relatively affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs continue to make it an appealing option for buyers seeking a dependable and budget-friendly vehicle.
