2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost: Huge Push For Turbo Four-Cylinder On The Way

One of the most talked-about features of the redesigned 2015 Ford Mustang is an optional turbocharged EcoBoost 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine.

It's not the first four-cylinder Mustang engine, but the EcoBoost will carve out a space in a lineup that's traditionally been dominated by larger V-6 and V-8 engines.

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That would explain why, according to Mustangs Daily, a huge marketing push for the EcoBoost is on the way, one that will discourage buying the V-6.

That 3.7-liter V-6 is likely to remain the Mustang's base engine--with the EcoBoost placed between it and the available 5.0-liter V-8--and it's done pretty well in that position so far. Over half of current-generation Mustangs sold are reportedly V-6 models, and now Ford will have to convince buyers to pay more for a smaller engine.

2015 Ford Mustang GT

The EcoBoost is expected to produce 305 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, compared to 300 hp and 270 lb-ft for the V-6.

It likely will get better EPA fuel economy ratings, although it's really more about less-inefficient performance than gas mileage.

One part of Ford's dissuasion strategy is simply not offering the V-6 in certain markets--like Europe--making the EcoBoost the de facto base engine.

Ford will also limit the options available with the V-6.

Buyers won't be able to get options like Recaro sport seats, the TrackApps connectivity feature, or larger 19- or 20-inch wheels.

The V-6 2015 Mustang also won't be available with the Performance and Premium packages. The former includes upgraded suspension, brakes, and wheels, while the latter upgrades the interior beyond the basic black-cloth seats.

These tactics underscore the need for customers to buy the EcoBoost Mustang, and not simply to justify its existence.

While the EcoBoost four isn't necessarily for fuel economy, it should still perform better than the V-6, contributing to a better Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) mix for the company.

CAFE standards will require 2025-model-year vehicles to achieve a fleet average of54.5 mpg, which translates to an EPA window-sticker rating of around 42 mpg.

Source: Green Car Reports