Can you turbo a 2.0 Ford Focus?
Yes, but it depends on the exact 2.0 engine in your Focus. The 2.0 EcoBoost in Focus models is already turbocharged, so you don’t retrofit a traditional “turbo” in the usual sense; gains come from tuning and supporting upgrades. The older, naturally aspirated 2.0 Duratec can be turbocharged with an aftermarket kit, but it’s a major project with significant cost and risk.
In this article we break down the engine variants, what turbocharging involves for each, typical components and price ranges, potential power outcomes, and practical steps to pursue a project safely and legally.
Engine variants and turbo feasibility
2.0 Duratec (naturally aspirated)
The Duratec 2.0 is a conventional, NA four‑cylinder engine that appeared in older Focus generations. It is not turbocharged from the factory, so any turbo setup requires installing a complete aftermarket kit and supporting hardware. Doing so can unlock meaningful power gains, but it also stresses the engine, cooling system, fuel system, and drivetrain. Success depends on careful component selection, tuning, and a realistic plan for reliability.
Before diving into a turbo project for this variant, owners should understand the scope, required parts, and the potential impact on longevity and warranty.
- Aftermarket turbo kit designed for 2.0 Duratec compatibility
- Complementary fuel system upgrades (injectors, pump, line sizing)
- Engine management/tuning to control boost and fueling
- Intercooler, piping, and exhaust modifications
- Adequate cooling and lubrication upgrades to handle increased heat
- Strengthened drivetrain and proper reliability testing
In short, a Duratec 2.0 turbo build is feasible but highly dependent on a thoughtful parts package and professional installation. The outcome hinges on many variables, including boost targets, fuel quality, and tuning discipline.
2.0 EcoBoost (factory turbocharged)
The 2.0 EcoBoost is a turbocharged engine that Ford used in the Focus ST (and related models in various markets). Since it already uses forced induction, “turbocharging” it anew isn’t the approach; instead, owners typically pursue power gains through tune adjustments, upgraded intercooling, intake/exhaust improvements, and, for more ambitious builds, turbo and fuel system enhancements. The core engine hardware is designed to run with boost, but pushing significantly higher power requires meticulous engineering, high‑quality parts, and professional setup.
Key considerations here are maintaining reliability, keeping emissions and warranty in mind, and ensuring the upgraded components work with the factory or modified ECU calibration.
- ECU remapping/tuning to optimize boost and fueling
- Intercooler and intake/exhaust upgrades for better cooling and airflow
- Upgraded injectors, fuel pump, and potentially a higher‑capacity fuel rail
- Boost management hardware (wastegate or electronic boost control) depending on the kit
- Quality of installation and dyno tuning to avoid detonation or lean conditions
Because the EcoBoost is already turbocharged, the practical path to more power centers on thorough supporting upgrades and a precise tune. Costs and complexity rise as you push beyond factory or kit‑recommended limits, and there is a greater emphasis on cooling, fueling, and drivetrain safety.
Costs, power potential, and reliability
Costs and results vary widely by engine variant, goals, and shop. Below are typical considerations to frame expectations.
Before listing the major cost drivers and outcomes, keep in mind that turbo projects carry risk to reliability, may affect warranty coverage, and can require compliance with local emissions laws.
- Kit and parts: turbo kit (or upgrades for EcoBoost), intercooler, exhaust, piping, and hardware
- Fuel system upgrades: injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, lines
- Engine management and tuning: standalone or tuned ECU, dyno time
- Supporting cooling: oil cooler, radiator upgrades, fans
- Drivetrain upgrades: clutch, rejuvenated transmission internals if needed, driveshafts
- Labor and fabrication: installation, welding, and setup
Roughly speaking, a NA 2.0 Duratec to turbo project can involve a substantial investment and, depending on goals, may yield moderate to strong power gains. An EcoBoost with only bolt‑on upgrades may show more modest gains unless the tuning and intercooler/related systems are significantly enhanced. Realistic power targets depend on parts quality, tuning, and the engine’s health, and results can vary from vehicle to vehicle.
Practical steps if you decide to turbo a 2.0 Focus
If you’re seriously considering a turbo project, follow these steps to maximize safety and results.
- Identify your exact engine and model year to confirm which path applies (NA Duratec vs. EcoBoost).
- Define your goals and budget, including a contingency for unforeseen parts or labor.
- Research compatible turbo kits or performance paths and consult experienced shops with Ford turbo builds.
- Plan supporting upgrades (fuel, cooling, exhaust, transmission) needed for the boost level you want.
- Get a professional installation and a dyno tune on a reputable shop’s chassis dynamometer.
- Monitor key parameters after installation (AFR, EGT, knock, fuel trims, oil pressure) and break‑in your new setup safely.
- Check local emissions and registration rules; update insurance and warranty expectations accordingly.
- Maintain a maintenance schedule that accounts for increased heat and stress on engine and drivetrain.
Following a disciplined plan with qualified help helps manage risk and can lead to a more reliable, satisfying result.
Summary
The feasibility of turbocharging a 2.0 Ford Focus hinges on the exact engine type. The 2.0 EcoBoost is already turbocharged, so increasing power focuses on tuning and supporting modifications rather than retrofitting a turbo. The 2.0 Duratec, a naturally aspirated variant, can be turbocharged with an aftermarket kit, but it is a substantial project that requires careful component selection, professional installation, and acceptance of potential reliability and warranty implications. In all cases, set clear goals, work with experienced technicians, and stay mindful of emissions and legal requirements. For enthusiasts, with proper planning, a turbo Focus can be rewarding—but it demands careful budgeting and due diligence.
Can you put a turbo in a Ford Focus?
We have been making Ford Focus Turbo Kits since 2001 and have a lot of happy Customers still running them today. We do all our own Custom Tuning. The 2012-2017 Turbo kit works with both the 5 speed and the Automatic Focus , I have 2 Kits on DCT Automatic Focus running for 2 years now with no Transmission issues.
How much horsepower does a Ford Focus 2.0 turbo have?
252 horsepower
The ST comes with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine rated at 252 horsepower. The exciting RS model is fitted with a turbocharged 2.3L inline-four engine that produces 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.
Can you put a bigger turbo in a 2.0 EcoBoost?
Take Your Focus ST / Fusion 2.0L to the Next Level With Garrett G30 Stock Location Turbo Kit. The biggest turbo that can fit for the most power the EcoBoost 2.0L can produce. The G Series G30-770 is not for everybody.
How much horsepower can a Ford 2.0 EcoBoost handle?
In most applications. And so the modifications. On this list will get us to about 300 wheel horsepower. And somewhere in the 340. To 350 wheel torque. Range.
