Driveability: The i40’s 1.7 litre turbodiesel inline
four produces 100kW and 320Nm. It’s a stout unit that has plenty of
torque to get the i40’s 1514kg body moving.
There’s the usual amount of turbodiesel throttle lag, but the CRDi
engine develops maximum torque between 2000 and 2500rpm so
off-the-line performance is brisk.
It’s mated to a six-speed manual as standard, but our tester was
equipped with the optional six-speed automatic.
The automatic shifts smoothly and is geared to take full advantage
of the engine’s low-end torque (it doesn’t enjoy being revved
hard). A pair of shift paddles allow the driver to take manual
control of gear selection.
It can be a bit slow to kick down for overtaking, but otherwise the
auto is preferable to the taller-geared manual.
