Ford introduces EcoBoost Engine to Explorer and Edge 09/02/2011
Ford is committed to expanding the availability of its EcoBoost engine to 90 percent of its vehicles around the world by 2013. The Explorer and the Edge were added to the list of vehicles that can be upgraded to the economical powertrain.
"An expanded array of customer choice marks the Ford showroom for 2012," said Ford president Mark Fields. "An EcoBoost powertrain puts Edge and Explorer fuel efficiency over the top."
The turbocharged four-cylinder uses direct injection to deliver fuel to a smaller displacement engine, which reduces the amount of fuel used. The $995 upgrade improves the fuel economy of the Explorer from 17 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg highway. According to Green Car Reports, the disadvantages of the EcoBoost engine are the noise and the towing capacity, which is rated at only 2,000 pounds. The standard V6 engine can handle up to 5,000 pounds.
Many drivers prefer big rides, but some are put off by the fuel economy, which tends to be worse than in sedans and smaller cars. However, with new government standards forcing automakers to improve the overall fuel economy of their new cars, many others will likely soon join Ford in making efforts to improve the fuel efficiency of larger vehicles.