Hyundai Motor Company has officially unveiled the long anticipated 2.4L Theta GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) 4-cylinder powertrain today at the Hyundai-Kia International Powertrain Conference in Korea. The direct-injected inline-4 is scheduled make its debut under the hood of the company's mid-size Sonata sedan early next year. Producing an impressive 201 horsepower at 6,300rpm and 25.5 kgf.m (184 lb.ft) of torque at 4,250rpm, the GDI powerplant surpasses GM's rivalling 2.4L DI counterpart that produces 182 horsepower and 174 lb.ft of torque.
GDI has been applied to the second generation of Theta, the Theta II featuring numerous design enhancements over its predecessor including the application of a three-stage variable induction system (VIS) which improves engine ‘breathing’, automatically adjusting the volume of the air sucked into the combustion chamber to create the ‘optimal’ air-to-fuel mix under different engine load conditions.
Further performance gains were made possible by incorporating Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT), which improves engine breathing on the intake and exhaust sides for better fuel economy and lower emissions. Depending on engine load and speed, DCVVT can extend or shorten the duration of the valve opening and closing for more power and lower emissions. The DCVVT system is governed by a new steel chain with an innovative roller and tooth designed for silent operation and durability.
According to Hyundai, the automaker spent over 170 billion Won (US$146.4 million) in research and development of the GDI powertrain over a span of 46 months. The new engine complies with ULEV-2 (ultra-low emission vehicle) and PZEV (partial zero emission vehicle) standards. GDI application will subsequently be expanded across the gasoline engine family and applied to other Hyundai models.
[Source: Yonhap News via Hyundai]
