Hyundai Prepares Direct-Injection Four-Cylinder Engines

Thanks to a loose-lipped plant manager, it’s been revealed that Hyundai may be introducing a range of direct-injection four-cylinder engines by 2011.

A production manager at Hyundai’s factory in Montgomery, Ala., told the Montgomery Advertiser that the facility is turning its attention to the new DI four-banger. According to the piece, the engine is an “upgraded” version of the 2.4-liter “Theta II” I-4 used in a few Hyundai products.

Presently, the 2.4-liter without direct injection produces 175 hp. With the new fuel delivery system, the Advertiser claims the engine will produce approximately 200 hp while returning “improved” fuel economy.

We wouldn’t be surprised to see this launch in the all-new 2011 Sonata, which will likely be launched later this year (possibly at the Los Angeles auto show). If so, then the Sonata will be one of the only models in its segment to offer direct fuel injection.

Source: Montgomery Adviser