2026 Kia K4 Hatchback

Smartstream T-GDi

1.5L Turbo I4

A small, modern turbo-four tuned for strong low-end torque that arrives early and stays flat, giving relaxed, efficient real-world urge. It trades drama for refined, frugal flexibility across a wide rev band.

Part of the Hyundai-Kia Smartstream engine family (engine code G4FS), this 1.5-liter T-GDi is the global turbo unit used in compact Kias such as the K4/Forte and Seltos.

• The Smartstream family pioneered the world's first Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology, which uniquely controls how long the valves stay open, not just when they open.
• It delivers its full 253 N·m (187 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 1,500 rpm, giving turbodiesel-like flexibility from a small gasoline engine.
• Higher-output tunes of the same 1.5-liter block reach roughly 197-200 PS depending on application.