Maximizing The Performance And Feel Of Your EcoBoost Ride

Ford developed the EcoBoost engine with intentions to create the perfect commuter engine, aiming for a smaller carbon footprint and improved fuel economy. However, for the enthusiast market, it represented the opportunity to acquire a factory-boosted Ford, something we had not seen since the Mustang SVO and Thunderbird Turbo Coupe days. While Its low-end torque outshines its larger cubic-inch counterpart, it was the term “boost” that caught our attention and removed any notion of it being eco-friendly, on or off the track

Since its introduction to the performance market we’ve witnessed a surge in modifying Ford’s turbocharged EcoBoost engine across numerous platforms. These engines have undergone modifications ranging from simple bolt-ons to maximum-effort builds, particularly with models bearing the ST or RS suffix. Even the truck and SUV market have embraced these engines, with vehicles such as the Explorer ST, Expedition, F-150 and Raptor utilizing twin-turbo V6 versions.

What Makes The EcoBoost Special

What did Ford do to make the EcoBoost so special? Well, for starters, Ford established an EcoBoost ecosystem that extends past just one vehicle. While this might seem like a straightforward streamline approach, akin to how the F-150 and Mustang share the Coyote architecture, for many, the array of vehicles utilizing the EcoBoost platform has enabled a seamless transition within the Ford lineup. Individuals may start their journey with Ford at a younger age, perhaps beginning with a Focus or Mustang, before progressing to models like the Explorer ST or F-150 Raptor. 

Unlike Ford’s other engines that lack forced induction, the EcoBoost platform exhibits exceptional responsiveness to modifications, particularly in tuning. While this responsiveness could stem from various factors, such as being intentionally detuned from the factory for smoother driving dynamics, the reality is that tuning an EcoBoost engine yields significant enhancements in both performance and overall driving experience. 

Importance Of Tuning An EcoBoost Engine

To learn more about the reasons for tuning an EcoBoost engine, we talked with Sam Parker who heads the R&D Calibration for Ford vehicles at COBB Tuning.

“If you’re simply adding bolt-on parts to the car — such as intake,…