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Kia Retona CE 2.0 i 16V (136 Hp)
Overall Rating
Kia Retona:
The Kia Retona is a small mini SUV based on Kia's military jeeps. The name is a portmanteau of return to nature. Developed by Asia Motors, the car was initially sold as the "Asia Retona" in some markets. The Retona had been using the same platform as the first generation Kia Sportage Convertible. Its competitors included the Lada Niva, Suzuki Jimny and the SsangYong Korando.
A 2006 survey of German owners by magazine Auto Bild found that the Retona was "abysmally" unreliable....(Read more on Wikipedia)
CE Overview:
Kia Retona (CE). With 181 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1480 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. The top speed reaches 150 km/h. A rugged vehicle built to handle rough terrains and challenging driving conditions. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Kia Retona CE was not tested by Euro NCAP. As a utilitarian off-road vehicle from its era, it likely features basic safety equipment compared to modern standards.
2.0 i 16V (136 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Likely the most capable engine for on-road performance, offering the highest power output, though still not a fast vehicle.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is expected to be similar to or slightly worse than the 128 Hp petrol, reflecting its increased power output.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Excellent off-road capability for its class and price point.
- • Robust and simple mechanicals, easy to maintain.
- • Good value for a used 4x4 utility vehicle.
- • Spacious interior and decent cargo capacity for its size.
Cons:
- • Very poor on-road performance, especially with diesel engines.
- • Basic interior comfort and features.
- • High fuel consumption for daily driving, especially petrol variants.
- • Lack of modern safety features and refinement.
- • Dated design and driving dynamics.
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Kia |
| Model: | Retona |
| Generation: | CE |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.0 i 16V (136 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1997 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 181 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | FE |
| Engine displacement: | 1998 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.3 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 86 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 16 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 150 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.3 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1480 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1235 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 394 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 60 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4000 mm mm |
| Width: | 1745 mm mm |
| Height: | 1835 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2360 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1440 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1440 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Kia Retona!