As you start shopping for a new vehicle, you’ll have many engine options to consider. While looking at Fords, it’s likely that the 2.3L EcoBoost engine will catch your eye more often than not. By considering its specs, you can decide if this popular engine will serve you well.
What are the specs for the Ford 2.3 engine?
The Ford 2.3 engine is back and better than ever. This engine can generate up to 395 horsepower, but most configurations make 270 to 310 ponies. With its EcoBoost technology, it is 30% more fuel efficient than its larger displacement counterparts.
There’s a lot more to know about the Ford 2.3L EcoBoost engine before you commit to purchasing your next vehicle. Thankfully, we are here to help. So, check out this guide and learn all you need to know about this powerplant.
History of the Ford 2.3 Engine
As fuel efficiency and emissions controls became a top priority in the 1970s, Ford came up with their 2.3L powerplant. The first design of this engine featured a 96.04-mm bore and a 79.4-mm stroke.
After its development, it landed in the 1974 Pinto. From there, they set their sights on putting this engine into all their vehicles, even producing a turbocharged version for the Mustang Cobra. They continued rolling out new configurations through 1997 when it was replaced by the 2.5L.
But that’s not the end of the 2.3L’s story because Ford brought it back in a big way for their EcoBoost lineup. The 2.3L EcoBoost arrived in the lineup in 2015 to power the more environmentally friendly Mustang and Lincoln MKC iterations.
This turbocharged four-cylinder produced up to 295 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, which surpasses the performance of the V6. Multiple redesigns increased power from there. With the switch to a twin-scroll turbocharger, it reached 395 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. in the version used in the Dallara Stradale.
The most powerful 2.3L EcoBoost sold in the United States is in the 2020 Mustang and generates 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft. This version is a truly formidable powerplant that can take on the 4.6L V8 without breaking a sweat.
No matter what configuration you choose, Ford squeezes all of that power out of the four-cylinder configuration by using:
- A long 94-mm stroke
- Forced induction from a twin-scroll turbocharger
- Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT)
- Direct fuel injection
The power comes on strong in the mid-range but peters out a bit at the top. When paired with a six-speed manual, it’s a true delight to drive and offers the best fuel efficiency possible.
Which Models Have a Ford 2.3 Engine?
The 2.3L engine may have landed back on the scene to make the Mustang and MKC more fuel efficient without compromising on power, but Ford didn’t end there.
They put this powerplant in many of their most popular cars, including:
- 2016 to 2018 Ford Focus RS (345 horsepower)
- 2016 to 2019 Ford Explorer (280 horsepower)
- 2019 Ford Focus ST (276 horsepower)
- 2019 Ford Ranger (270 horsepower)
- 2020 Lincoln Corsair (285 horsepower)
They will even put the 270-horsepower version in the much-anticipated 2021 Ford Bronco. With that move, you can get a high-tech SUV that generates a lot of power and maintains a small carbon footprint.
People Also Ask
What is a 2.3L Engine?
As a part of the EcoBoost lineup, the newest 2.3L engine from Ford is a fuel-efficient inline four-cylinder powerplant. It uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, variable valve timing, and direct injection to produce gobs of power without guzzling gas.
Is the Ford 2.3 a Good Engine?
Yes, the Ford 2.3 is a good engine. With its forced induction, direct injection, and Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, it easily generates over 300 horsepower while remaining wholly fuel efficient. In fact, it gets an EPA-estimated 19 MPG in the city and 26 MGP on the highway.
How Much Horsepower can a 2.3 Ford Make?
The 2.3L EcoBoost engine from Ford produces 270 to 395 horsepowe, depending on which model you choose. The Dallara Stradale has the most powerful version, while the 2019 Ranger, 2020 Everest, and 2021 Bronco get the 270-horsepower configuration.
How Much Does a Ford 2.3 Engine Weigh?
When assembled in full, the Ford 2.3L EcoBoost engine weighs about 418 pounds. In addition to the long block, this weight includes the exhaust manifold, mounting brackets, alternator, and all the other components it needs to run.
Where is the 2.3 EcoBoost Eade?
Ford builds their twin-scroll 2.3L EcoBoost engine at their production facility in Cleveland, Ohio. Prior to its redesign, this powerplant was built at the Valencia Engine Plant in Spain.
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