What is Ford EcoBoost? - engine technology explained
Get the details on Ford EcoBoost and see if it’s an engine you should consider
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If you’re in the market for a Ford, you might be wondering ‘what is EcoBoost?’.
It’s popular among the Ford line-up but you’ll be forgiven if you’re not quite sure what it means.
Ford EcoBoost is the name of the brand’s turbocharged petrol engine that’s been popular across the range since 2005.
These engines allow for more efficiency and improved fuel economy, without scrimping on power.
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How does Ford EcoBoost work?
EcoBoost engines are a turbocharged setup that work by compressing air into the engine from exhaust gases that otherwise would be wasted.
This highly compressed air gives the engine a nice boost of power.
Alongside this, EcoBoost engines use only the minimum amount of fuel needed by directly injecting a highly pressurised amount into the combustion chamber.
This means the engine is more efficient and produces fewer CO2 emissions, while never sacrificing performance.
Benefits of EcoBoost turbocharging
EcoBoost turbocharging is ideal if you want an efficient car that still feels powerful.
As the EcoBoost engine is frugal on fuel and only uses what’s needed, it’s usually cheap to run but still able to produce ample amounts of power.
‘Eco’ refers to the impressive fuel economy and low emissions, while ‘Boost’ ensures you’re not going to be driving at a snail's pace.
For example, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is capable of up to 123hp, and the 2.3-litre engine can now be found in the coveted Focus RS hot hatch.
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Ford EcoBoost engine options
There are a few EcoBoost variations depending on the car you choose, starting with the 1.0-litre in the iconic Fiesta.
There are also 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines, with the 1.6-litre being used in the Formula Ford race series, albeit a highly tuned version.
EcoBoost engines can be found in Ford models such as the B-MAX, EcoSport, Focus, new C-MAX, Mondeo and Torneo Connect – as well as the Fiesta we mentioned earlier.
If you’re shopping around and aren't set on a vehicle, read our guide to see which Ford is right for you.
Ford EcoBoost hybrid engines
You can also get an EcoBoost engine that’s aided by mild-hybrid technology.
This means the engine can harvest energy normally lost during braking and can use this to offer boosts of power. This is known as regenerative braking and can help further improve fuel efficiency.
There are also self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid EcoBoost engines to give you even more fuel efficiency.
Self-charging hybrids work the same as mild hybrids but they use a larger battery to store more energy, while plug-in hybrids use a charging point to boost their battery.
The Ford Kuga is available with plug-in and self-charging EcoBoost engines – great for economical driving.
EcoBoost vs. regular naturally aspirated engines
Because EcoBoost engines use turbochargers, they work differently from naturally aspirated engines.
Instead of a turbocharger forcing air into the engine using its forced induction process, naturally aspirated engines ‘breathe naturally’.
This breathing process sees the pistons in naturally aspirated engines suck in air as they move down.
Turbocharged engines are usually more efficient, reduce CO2 emissions and can help reduce the overall weight of the car, thanks to the use of a smaller engine.
It’s easy to see why they’ve gained popularity in recent years. It's becoming harder to find new naturally aspirated engines on the market.
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Is a Ford EcoBoost engine reliable?
In general, motorists are firm believers that naturally aspirated engines are more reliable than turbocharged.
This is because turbocharged setups have more parts that need maintaining or replacing, whereas naturally aspirated engines are simpler.
Some drivers experienced issues with earlier versions of the EcoBoost (particularly with cars produced between 2011 and 2013), but newer versions are considered to be more reliable.
Should I buy a Ford with EcoBoost?
Ford EcoBoost engines are efficient, deliver impressive power and keep CO2 emissions low.
If this is something you want from your car, an EcoBoost is a great fit.
It’s an engine the brand is proud of and we’re fans of too, especially for a daily driver.
If you’re looking to save money on the road, you might want to look for other Ford cars with the best MPG.