Ford's EcoBoost four-cylinder engines are scheduled for global debut this year with BorgWarner turbochargers bolted to the exhaust manifolds. European markets will get first taste via the 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four before North America receives the 2.0-liter four-banger in late 2010. The 2.0-liter is expected to replace naturally-aspirated V-6 engines and produce around 230 horsepower with 240 pound-feet of torque. The 1.6-liter is projected to have 180 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque.
What's the significance of turbocharged four-cylinder engines to the truck and SUV community? It hasn't been officially confirmed, but the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine will reportedly be offered with the significantly revamped 2011 Ford Explorer, and possibly even future Edge/Lincoln MKX models. Back in summer 2008, an EcoBoost four-cylinder was rumored to be the powertrain of choice for F-150 standard cabs, although the displacement mentioned at the time was 2.5 liters. If Ford decides to bring a compact truck back to the U.S., a four-cylinder will be sitting in the engine bay.
The EcoBoost formula consists of direct injection, turbocharging, variable camshaft timing, and higher compression ratios. By 2013, an EcoBoost engine option will be available with 90 percent of Ford's North American offerings.
Sources: BorgWarner, Ford