Ask an expert

I'm considering replacing my car - so far - I have selected a Toyota Nadia 2 L which has a D4 engine.

D4 is new to me and I enquire whether it's a proven motor in our market and/or if there are any problems with the motor to be aware of.

Has it been used in other models and therefore developed a good or bad record of performance and service issues?

Bob

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

The D4 engine is one designed to be very fuel efficient and produce good performance while at the same time delivering low tail pipe emissions.

The technology is sometimes referred to as Gasoline Direct Injection or GDi and works on the principal of injecting high pressure fuel direct into the combustion chamber at precise timing intervals.

Mitsubishi have this technology in many of their vehicles but it has not been without its frustrations to owners and garages. Most problems would appear to stem from rough running or surging which many believe is a result of the very lean fuel mixtures the engines run at times.

A high build up of carbon deposits inside the engine, can also be a problem according to my sources. I understand Mitsubishi NZ have tended to avoid these engines in their current model line-up.

My sources also tell me Toyota have the occasional challenge trying to get these engines to run smoothly or getting their customers to accept a surge or erratic low speed running issue is normal and acceptable.

With the Nadia being an import even the Toyota NZ technical guru's can sometimes offer minimal support.

I don't think it would ever let you down completely but it may not guarantee a memorable driving experience either.

My understanding is the later the car the better the overall performance when it comes to the GDi technology, however if you had the option some would choose to avoid it all together.