
KX1 is equipped with a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine. A naturally aspirated engine is a type of automobile engine intake system that relies on atmospheric pressure to force air into the combustion chamber without using any supercharger. The function of the engine is to convert the thermal energy of gasoline or diesel into mechanical energy by burning the expanding gas in a sealed cylinder to push the piston. Taking the 2021 KX1 Manual Enjoyment Edition as an example, its body structure is a five-door, five-seat SUV with dimensions of 4100mm in length, 1735mm in width, and 1533mm in height, a wheelbase of 2570mm, a minimum ground clearance of 185mm, a fuel tank capacity of 43 liters, and a curb weight of 1060kg.

The Hyundai Kona uses a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine, which belongs to Hyundai's in-house Gamma series. This engine feels quite smooth during daily driving, with a maximum horsepower of around 100, making it perfectly adequate for city commuting. I've driven my friend's Kona, and while the acceleration isn't particularly aggressive, the throttle response is quite intuitive. It's also fuel-efficient, consuming just over 7 liters per 100 kilometers in city driving with the air conditioning on during summer. Although it doesn't have a turbo, the maintenance costs are low—regular mineral oil is sufficient for servicing, making it a worry-free choice for family use.

I'm quite familiar with that 1.4L Gamma engine. The chain-driven timing system eliminates the need for regular belt replacement, saving owners some maintenance costs. The power tuning is somewhat conservative but compensates with durability, though the engine note gets a bit thin at higher RPMs. Surprisingly good low-end torque though - it handled four passengers and AC on uphill climbs without struggling. Hyundai paired this powertrain with either a 6AT or manual transmission, with the manual having slightly long shift throws but precise gear engagement.

Compared to other small SUVs in the same price range, the 1.4L engine of the Kia Stonic doesn't have eye-catching specs on paper, but it actually feels more agile in city driving than some 1.5L models. Its high compression ratio design combined with DVVT technology allows it to run smoothly on 92-octane fuel. The engine bay layout is compact - when changing the air filter myself, I found the throttle position is easily reachable. Some ride-hailing drivers using this model have reported only needing to replace spark plugs and engine mounts after 200,000 kilometers.


