Kia has released engine details for its new fourth-generation Sportage SUV, which include an all-new 1.6-liter T-GDI unit and a heavily revised 2-liter turbodiesel.
Modifications have been made across the engine range, however, to bring improvements to fuel efficiency, NVH and power delivery.
The 1.6-liter T-GDI engine is from the Gamma family and produces 177ps and 265Nm of torque from 1,500-4,500rpm. Kia says a new single-scroll turbocharger with electronic actuator enables a quicker engine response and better fuel economy under acceleration.
Other features on the downsized unit include a high-energy ignition coil, higher-tumble intake ports, a low-friction timing chain and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.
The 2.0-liter turbodiesel is available with two power outputs – 136ps with 373Nm torque, and 185ps with 400Nm. Both benefit from a 5kg lighter engine block, up-to-date battery management system, continuously variable displacement oil pump – which senses and modifies oil pressure in real time – and a new oil filter module.
Kia says lower combustion temperatures in the 2.0-liter ‘R’ engine have reduced NOx emissions, aided by a relatively low compression ratio, a new exhaust gas recirculation cooler system, and a new lean NOx trap.
A lower-inertia turbine wheel in the turbocharger and electronically-controlled wastegate actuator result in more efficient turbocharging than the ‘R’ engine found in the outgoing Sportage, while stiffer valve springs and high-pressure 2000 bar fuel pump injection allow closer control of combustion within the engine cylinders. Mechanical friction is also reduced, further cutting engine noise and improving efficiency, with a new nano-diamond piston coating.
January 27, 2016