2014 Hyundai Sonata’s Engine Options Include Fuel-efficient 2.4-liter and Powerful 2.0-liter Turbo with 274 Horsepower

Tyler Linn
Dec 30, 2021

The 2014 Sonata’s 2.0-liter’s superior efficiency helps boost it to the top of the engine options. Its Mitsubishi-sourced turbo helps to give it an 82 horsepower bump over the 2.4 while maintaining a tight gap in fuel economy.

2014 Hyundai Sonata- Photo by Hyundai

Key Points

  • 2014 Hyundai Sonata features two engine options- a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter and a turbocharged 2.0-liter.
  • The 2.4-liter features better fuel economy but lower power at 192 hp and 179 lb.-ft. of torque. Sonata’s 2.0-liter offers 274 hp and 24 mpg combined.
  • Both engines stem from the Theta engine family and feature aluminum blocks and heads, direct injection technology (GDI), continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), and dual-overhead-cams (DOHC).
  • Both engines suffer from a pair of recalls – a bearing that may wear prematurely and seize the engine and a leaking high-pressure fuel line.

2014 Hyundai Sonata - Photo by Hyundai

2014 Sonata’s 2.4-Liter GDI Theta II Engine Makes for a Practical Daily Driver With 192 HP and Up to 34 mpg on the Highway

2014 Hyundai Sonata‘s base offering is a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder (G4KJ) engine. It’s a member of Hyundai’s Theta engine family and features 192 horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.4-liter utilizes a dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) design, an 11.3:1 compression ratio, and an 88 mm bore with a 97 mm stroke to power the front wheels. The engine block and head are each constructed of aluminum to ensure a lightweight engine. The block features an open deck to help with cooling.

Fuel economy is a win in the 2.4 with ratings of 24 city/ 34 hwy/ 27 combined mpg from the EPA. Fuel capacity sits at 18.5 gallons, meaning the 2.4 should provide at least 444 miles of travel with every full tank of gas. The 2.4 also takes regular 87 gas, so fuel-ups should be relatively cheap.

One of the prime benefits of 2014 Sonata’s 2.4-liter engine is its direct injection (GDI) technology. Hyundai’s GDI is a process in which pressurized fuel is sent directly into the combustion chamber rather than mixing with the air beforehand. The 2.4 uses multi-hole injectors mated to a high-pressure fuel pump at the top of the cylinder to deliver fuel. By using GDI technology, the G4KJ helps to increase overall engine efficiency and power.

Oil capacity for the 2.4-liter G4KJ sits at 4.9 quarts. Hyundai recommends using 5W-30 oil and a change every 9,000 miles. Hyundai also recommends adjusting the engine’s timing components every 60k miles.

Lastly, the 2.4-liter features continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on the intake and exhaust camshafts. CVVT helps the 2.4 to adjust air intake depending on driver input for either power or efficiency.

2014 Hyundai Sonata - Photo by Hyundai

274 HP and 30+ Hwy mpg in the 2.0-liter Turbo GDI Makes for a Fun, Powerful, and Fuel-efficient Turbocharged 2014 Sonata Engine

Jumping up to the 2.0-liter turbo GDI (G4KH) gets you an additional 82 horsepower for a total of 274 hp. In fact, The 2.0-liter turbo adds even more power than the 3.3-liter Lambda V6 it replaced. Torque levels increase to 269 lb.-ft. as well. Regardless of your driving style, the 2.0-liter affords more confidence and power when driving.

The 2.0-liter is available exclusively in the SE and Limited trims. Additionally, it features an EPA-rated fuel economy of 21 city/ 31 hwy/ 24 combined mpg and a range of 388+ miles. 87 gas is the recommendation from Hyundai, but you’ll undoubtedly get better performance by using a higher octane fuel. Many even state a smoother ride on midgrade and premium fuels. When your engine features a turbo like this one, it’s typically the best call.

Like the 2.4-liter, 2014 Sonata’s 2.0-liter turbo engine is also a member of the Theta engine family. As a result, the 2.0-liter turbo shares a very similar construction to the 2.4-liter apart from turbo-related modifications and additions. Compression is set to 9.5:1, and a twin-scroll turbo along with necessary components comes standard as well. The 2.0-liter turbo likewise utilizes an aluminum head and block, CVVT, DOHC, and GDI technology. Like the 2.4, Hyundai recommends oil change intervals remain the same at 9,000 miles. Lastly, oil capacity jumps up due to the addition of the turbo and sits at 6.1 quarts.

The 2.0-liter was able to increase power and efficiency through a few key designs. The engine utilizes a Mitsubishi TD04-19T turbocharger. The turbo features a quick response rate on top of eliminating lag. This is possible thanks to fewer blades, a redesigned turbine wheel, and an electronic wastegate. Boost is set to 17.3 psi and helps to achieve better fuel economy and power than a naturally-aspirated engine of the same displacement.

2014 Hyundai Sonata is a Sedan Best Served with a 274 HP, 2.0-liters of Displacement, and a Turbo on Top

2014 Hyundai Sonata offers two solid engine options. The base 2.4-liter provides decent power and better fuel economy. It’s not going to win any awards for excitement, but it does offer 27 mpg combined. It’s undoubtedly the better option for the more fuel-conscious driver or anyone looking for a slower car, perhaps for a student driver.

On the SE and Limited trims, the 2014 Sonata features a turbocharged 2.0-liter GDI engine. The 2.0-liter brings 274 hp and 269 lb.-ft. of torque to the table while maintaining 24 combined mpg. It’s a great compromise between stimulating power and daily fuel economy.

But if we have to choose one, we’re going with the 2.0-liter turbo. It’s hard to pass up on a 274 hp engine with decent gas mileage. We recommend you avoid the boring commutes and grab yourself a 2.0-liter turbo.

Photos: Hyundai

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Richard W on July 18, 2021
Gives great mileage with the ECO switch.
Problems were never major until 100,000 miles. Engine was contaminated somehow and so was pretty much rebuilt. The batteries seem to need replacing every year and a half to 2 years, but I was told that's common now with all the new tech in cars now. Performance has always been good, being the SE 2.0t. Very quick when you need it.
accountCircle Carolyn R on July 30, 2021
Amazing gas mileage but faulty engine.
The car runs great except the engine randomly stopped once. It broke down on the highway after it had just been checked by a mechanic. It was a manufacturing issue in the engine itself. Thankfully I was fine, but it could have been a lot worse. Overall the car is great, the engine was fixed by the dealership free of charge.
accountCircle Erin T on June 20, 2021
Buyer beware... Hyundai's are a hit or miss... For me definitely a miss.
I bought my sonata used (2 years) old, certified and from a local Hyundai dealer. I will never buy another Hyundai again. I have had nothing but trouble with my sonata since I purchased it. My sonata has broken down 3 times for engine problems even though the car was 'certified.'
accountCircle Sari N on November 20, 2021
Sonata’s are really a hidden gem.
I really love my Sonata! I am at 90k and have only had to do routine maintainers. Beware, there have been quite a few recalls such as the seat belt anchor, something with the brake system, something with the engine. They extended our warranty because of this.
accountCircle Indika M on September 12, 2021
Great value, but watch the recalls.
It had great gas mileage about 25 mpg in town and 33 highway. There have been quite a few recalls with this car and potential engine fires. I would definitely buy a Hyundai again, but research the number of recalls. Overall the car is a great value.
accountCircle Ashley G on August 10, 2021
2014 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0. Is where it's at!
So far, there have been no problems. Currently has 81000 miles on it and drives so nicely. The engine in so powerful. This car handles curvy mountain roads with ease, as well as interstate driving. I would highly recommend purchasing this exact car.
accountCircle Shay B on December 15, 2021
Ups and downs of owning a sonata.
I love my car! I've had it for 5 years, and we've been through a lot together. Just recently, though, we experienced a recall in which the engine, wiring harness, and knock sensor had to be replaced, which took 2 months and was very annoying.
accountCircle Keisha B on August 23, 2021
Too many recalls on the Hyundai sonatas.
The vehicle is very efficient on gas. But has recalls on the engine and other things. I have had to have it repaired more often than I'd like to. If there’s wasn’t the recall issues I would be extremely satisfied with the car.
accountCircle Fernando P on November 20, 2021
2014 Hyundai sonata limited 2.0l review.
I just found out there is a extended warranty for the engine. There Is Debris when they built the engine. So the engine can break down. But the performance of the car is good. I have no issues or complaints with the new engine.
accountCircle Samantha M on June 21, 2021
The car drives smooth.
This car has been reliable, the only issue over had is that sometimes the engine sensor a little rough when the air conditioner is on or after driving long distance. Otherwise the car drives smooth. The car is good on gas.
accountCircle Kristen L on August 22, 2021
Buyers beware several recalls
There is a strange engine noise when you turn the car off and when idling. There are also several recalls that required attention at the dealership. The only positive about the vehicle is that it drives pretty smooth.
accountCircle Susan D on September 11, 2021
Engine went out at 9000 miles
I have a turbo 2014, engine went out at 9000 miles, they have more recalls then one can count. When I take it in 3 times the dealer didn’t connect the turbo back up after replacing engine, recalls and other issuses.
accountCircle Emily M on November 23, 2021
Good engine does run good.
To many sensors it makes my car run bad. I have an oil leak and I have had to get trash blew out of the transmission twice. But I haven't completely broke down battery went bad to. Does have a good engine.
accountCircle Margaret D on August 30, 2021
The warranty is good, use it well.
This car has driven well but the engine went at 80,000. It was covered under warranty which is good but it was not something I expected when I bought it. I have been satisfied overall with the gas mileage.
accountCircle Harpreet S on July 8, 2021
Reliability with a dash of styling.
I have only had one issue with the engine in 6 years. Also, the acceleration is great. In addition, I like that the engine has both an 'eco' and 'sport' mode. Also, I get great fuel economy.
accountCircle Vanessa H on November 26, 2021
Hyundai Sonata: Smooth and Spacious
There were some unexpected problems with the engine, but it was under warranty and the entire engine was replaced. Since then, it has been riding smoothly with no other problems.
accountCircle Sarah J on October 21, 2021
Best vehicle to have for everyday use
Reliable. Gas saver. Good mileage. Oil lasts longer. Engine is a great starter. Great car to drive out of town and for personal use. Or for work. Again great car to drive
accountCircle Yei G on November 21, 2021
Good car for the price, low maintenance cost.
Had some issues with the car, recently my engine went bad and the car still in the dealer. Waiting to see if the car warranty will take care of it.
accountCircle Kimberly G on November 24, 2021
It is very important to do the necessary servicing.
I have been having some engine issues, but otherwise it's a nice vehicle
accountCircle Jack T on July 13, 2021
Engine could fail at any time.
Too many recalls and hard to get appointments.
avatar Tyler Linn
Tyler joined Vehicle History as a contributing writer in 2021 and has worked in the automotive industry as a journalist since 2019. His area of expertise lies in '80s and '90s Japanese imports and Toyota/Lexus vehicles. When he's not writing, Tyler likes to jam out to screamo or synthwave in his '94 Toyota Soarer as he pushes it through the twisties with his car club. Check out his poor taste in photography and Christian memes via IG: @tylerlinn5
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