Ford Mustang EcoBoost: Is the Turbo Four Worth It?

Ford has offered a four-cylinder Mustang since 2015, and the 2.3-liter EcoBoost remains the entry-level engine for the S650 generation. But after 10 years, the question is whether the turbo-four still makes sense for buyers who can't or won't buy a V-8.

Performance: Quicker Than You Think

MotorTrend has tested EcoBoost Mustangs ranging from a 6.3-second 0-60 mph run to a 4.9-second sprint. Both are quicker than many V-8 Mustangs from previous generations. Quarter-mile times have dipped into the low 13-second range. The engine produces 310 to 330 horsepower and 320 to 350 lb-ft of torque, depending on the tune, paired with a six- or 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual.

The turbo-four also changes the car's character. With less weight over the front axle than a GT, the EcoBoost turns in more eagerly and feels more balanced. The new Ford Mustang RTR, tuned by drift star Vaughn Gittin Jr., uses the EcoBoost as its base. At various times, Ford has offered a High Performance package that borrowed hardware from the Focus RS, adding a louder exhaust, larger brakes, a shorter rear-end ratio, and chassis bracing.

Fuel Economy and Cost

The EcoBoost is rated at 21-22 mpg city and 32-33 mpg highway, compared to 14-15/23-25 for the GT. In the current S650 generation, the base EcoBoost is over $10,000 less expensive than the entry-level GT. Tire replacement, insurance, and routine ownership costs also favor the four-cylinder.

Reliability: Separating Anecdote from Fact

The EcoBoost has earned the nickname "EcoBoom" in enthusiast circles, referring to catastrophic engine failures sometimes involving coolant intrusion, misfires, head gasket failure, or internal damage. MotorTrend notes that some of those problems appear linked to modified or tuned engines. The publication says a well-maintained, unmodified EcoBoost with documented service records is a better bet than a neglected or modified example.

Ford has issued technical service bulletins addressing software and drivability concerns, typical for a modern turbocharged, direct-injected engine. MotorTrend recommends used-car shoppers check maintenance history over internet lore.

The Sound Question

No turbocharger can replicate a V-8's rumble. MotorTrend describes the EcoBoost's exhaust as an aggressive growl that's quieter and more subdued—acceptably different, and potentially better for daily driving.

The Bottom Line

The V-8 remains the definitive Mustang engine. But the EcoBoost delivers strong performance, balanced handling, significantly lower fuel costs, and a roughly $10,000 lower entry price. MotorTrend says it's still a Mustang, just with a different character.

• 2.3-liter turbo
• entry-level muscle car
• Ford Mustang EcoBoost
• MotorTrend
• reliability
• S650