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 turbocharged gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine producing 177 horsepower and paired with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, was offered from 2018 through 2021. It occupied a mid-range position within the Sportage IV lineup, bridging the gap between the base engine options and the more powerful alternatives. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced safety features, and refinements to the interior, solidifying the Sportage’s appeal to families and individuals seeking a practical and well-equipped SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDI (177 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) | 9.4-9.8 l/100 km (25 – 24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6-6.7 l/100 km (35.6 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6-7.9 l/100 km (30.9 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 175-180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Gamma II / G4FJ |
| 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 | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1529-1694 kg (3370.87 – 3734.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 476-641 kg (1049.4 – 1413.16 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%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 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; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sportage variant lies the Gamma II 1.6 T-GDI engine, designated G4FJ. This is a four-cylinder, inline engine featuring direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, enhancing efficiency and power output. The turbocharger boosts performance by forcing more air into the cylinders, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. The engine produces 177 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. This broad torque curve provides good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine’s 10:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, delivering power to all four wheels via Kia’s all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDI engine, while not the most powerful option in the Sportage IV range, provides a respectable level of performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9 seconds. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers relatively easy. The manual transmission offers precise gear changes and allows the driver to maintain control over the engine’s power delivery. Compared to the naturally aspirated engines, the 1.6 T-GDI offers significantly more torque at lower engine speeds, resulting in better drivability in urban environments. However, it doesn’t possess the outright acceleration of the higher-output engines available in the Sportage lineup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDI AWD trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The interior design was modern and functional, with a focus on practicality and comfort.
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 enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 T-GDI AWD 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 that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 2.0-liter petrol and 1.7-liter diesel options, the 1.6 T-GDI offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The diesel models provided superior fuel economy, while the 2.0-liter petrol engine offered more power. The 1.6 T-GDI appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience.
Legacy
The Kia Sportage IV, including the 1.6 T-GDI AWD variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Gamma II engine has a generally good reputation for longevity, although regular maintenance is crucial. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a well-equipped and practical SUV at a competitive price. The Sportage IV helped to establish Kia as a major player in the compact SUV segment, and the 1.6 T-GDI variant remains a popular choice among used car buyers.
