We’ve been running stories for quite some time on Ford’s second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine–even when we didn’t know it was the engineering followup to the original EcoBoost. That came while its development and testing in the IMSA series. But when it appeared in the new Ford GT, then it didn’t take a rocket scientist to realize the much-improved 3.5-liter would show up in other Ford models.
Witness the truck version, which was just announced for the 2017 Ford F-150. Including the 2.7-liter model, EcoBoost engines make up 60 percent of all F-150 sales.
The latest 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost offers 30 lb-ft more torque than the previous model, peaking out at 450 lb-ft for a twin-turbo V6. Just like the race version, there are two fuel injection systems for each cylinder: a direct injection and port injection. The new 3.5-liter also features new turbos that provide additional boost, thanks to a lighter turbine wheel and electrically activated wastegates.
Other tricks in the new engine include hollow camshafts, a new roller-finger follower valvetrain, more durable valves and Auto Start-Stop. The EcoBoost will be built at Ford’s famed Cleveland plant where the automaker is investing $145 million in upgrades.
Ford is also introducing a new 10-speed automatic transmission that will be mated to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost. It offers improved acceleration and performance over the previous 6-speed, as well as better fuel economy with three overdrive gears. The transmission will be built at the Livonia plant.