The humble little powerplant that motivates the Hyundai Accent and Veloster doesn’t have to be so humble anymore. Sitting among some serious fire-breathers on Ward’s Auto 10 Best Engines list for 2012 is the recently released 1.6 liter Gamma inline four cylinder. This compact but scrappy block sports modern-day technology such as gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing to produce a street-worthy 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. What is even more welcome are features such as a worry-free timing chain and the ability to average 40 mpg in both the Veloster and Accent.
“The new 1.6-liter DI Gamma four-cylinder is powering entry level vehicles such as the Hyundai Accent and demonstrates its versatility in the Hyundai Veloster three-door coupe,” said WardsAuto World Executive Editor, Tom Murphy. “Priced a shade above $14,000, the Gamma-equipped Accent is an excellent value that will surprise and delight any first-time buyer.” The Gamma may put out just under 140 horsepower, but it still out powers its rivals when fitted under the hood of the Accent. And there is even more power to found from the block as Hyundai engineers have already confirmed a turbocharged version with more than 200 horsepower on tap for the near future.
Source: Hyundai
