It’s well understood that Ford’s EcoBoost engines combine direct injection, variable valve timing, and turbocharging to achieve impressive power and high efficiency. While these advanced engines deliver the acceleration and high fuel economy desired in mainstream models, EcoBoost engines also power the automaker’s performance-oriented models like the Mustang and Fiesta ST. As die-hard enthusiasts always wonder…is there a way to eke even more performance from my car?

And the answer is ‘yes,’ with new hand-held programmers from Ford that adjust a multitude of engine parameters. Tuners often go the traditional route of replacing original equipment with aftermarket parts like performance camshafts, exhaust and intake manifolds, high-flow fueling systems, and even superchargers, sometimes with unwanted trade-offs in efficiency, durability, or comfort.

Ford points out that in an age of computer-controlled engines, a better answer is performance mods using Ford Racing’s programming handset. The $595 ProCal programmer for the Focus ST 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and Fiesta ST 1.6-liter EcoBoost plugs into the car’s diagnostic link connector port, enabling performance tweaks to everything from throttle response characteristics and idle speed to turbo wastegate control, fuel curves, and spark timing.

In the hands of engine tuning experts, tweaking with the ProCal can bring impressive gains in horsepower and torque output. The Focus ST can gain up to a 90 lb-ft torque increase while maintaining the Ford-backed limited warranty. Custom engine calibrations for the all-new Mustang 2.3-liter EcoBoost are being developed by Ford Racing with a product expected by the end of 2015.

 

 

Ford’s super-efficient 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine will make its first appearance on our shores next year in the new 2014 Ford Fiesta. It’s expected to be the smallest engine in its class and also achieve the best fuel economy of any non-hybrid car sold in America.

The award-winning engine is already making waves in Europe, where it accounts for 30 percent of all Focus sales. It will also be offered in the all-new Mondeo and is launching in the B-MAX and C-MAX in European markets.

The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is the first three-cylinder powerplant ever for Ford. It also features innovations never seen in a Ford engine including a super-small turbocharger, timing belt immersed in engine oil, an offset crankshaft, variable oil pump, split cooling, and external balancing. The smooth-running engine develops about the same horsepower as a 1.6-liter engine with 25 percent fewer moving parts.

Ford aims to provide it all with this engine – a sporty sound at high revs, smooth and quiet idle, and great fuel economy. It’s projected to offer 123 horsepower with 148 lb-ft torque and provide satisfying acceleration.