Ford debuts EcoBoost engine in Flex, Lincoln MKT & MKS

For a long while, Ford had been publicly boasting about their development of a new turbocharged series of engines. The first of these has now been unveiled in not one, but three different models. The new EcoBoost engine will be an available option in the Ford Flex, the Lincoln MKS and the all-new Flex-based Lincoln MKT, all debuting at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

The 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine certainly is an impressive unit, offering a massive 355 hp at 5700 rpm and a solid 474 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm. The standard gearbox is a 6-speed SelectShift automatic, and all models will also get standard all-wheel-drive to put down the power to the ground.

The benefit of this direct-injection engine is its compact size compared to a V8. It also makes as much power as a V8, according to Ford, while offering up to 15% better fuel economy.

The Ford Flex EcoBoost offers all the features that come with the standard model, including all-wheel-drive, Sync multimedia system, panoramic sunroof and unlimited cup-holders. The massive extra power comes at only about 10% extra fuel consumption over the base non-turbo model.

The Lincoln MKS with Ecoboost is being offered in fully-loaded trim, with all-wheel-drive, 19-inch wheels, steering-wheel paddle shifters, intelligent key with start button, fancy ambient lighting, adaptive HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers, sports seats and rear-window power sunshade.

The Lincoln MKT is an ungainly-looking luxury crossover based on the Ford Flex. While the base engine is a 268 hp 3.7-litre V6, the EcoBoost version is the more attractive proposition, with a better combination of power and torque than more SUV-like V8 crossovers. It also comes with everything the Flex does, plus new features such as adaptive cruise control, parking assist system, adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitor and more. However, given its looks and expected price, it is obvious what sales figures are going to be like.

The EcoBoost engine will also power the all-new Ford Taurus by next year. Expect these new models to hit Dubai and GCC showrooms by summer this year, although it is unknown if the EcoBoost engine will be offered here, given Ford’s penchant for offering only the most basic engine choices for the UAE market.