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What turbo does the EcoBoost have?

The EcoBoost engine, a popular choice among Ford vehicle owners, is known for its impressive performance and fuel efficiency. At the heart of this engine's capabilities lies a key component: the turbocharger. This article delves into the details of the EcoBoost turbocharger, exploring how it contributes to the engine's impressive power and efficiency.


What is the EcoBoost Turbocharger?


The EcoBoost engine, introduced by Ford in 2009, utilizes a turbocharger to enhance its performance. A turbocharger is a forced induction system that increases an engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. In the case of the EcoBoost, the turbocharger is designed to provide a significant boost in power while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency.


How the EcoBoost Turbocharger Works


The EcoBoost turbocharger is a key component that sets this engine apart from naturally aspirated engines. It works by using the exhaust gases from the engine to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor. The compressor forces more air into the engine's intake, allowing for a higher air-fuel ratio and increased power output.


This process of forced induction allows the EcoBoost engine to produce more power from a smaller displacement, without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The turbocharger is designed to provide a significant boost in power when needed, while also maintaining excellent fuel economy during normal driving conditions.


Benefits of the EcoBoost Turbocharger



  • Increased Power: The turbocharger allows the EcoBoost engine to produce more power than a naturally aspirated engine of the same size, providing a significant performance boost.

  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: By using a smaller displacement engine with a turbocharger, the EcoBoost can achieve better fuel efficiency compared to larger, naturally aspirated engines.

  • Responsive Performance: The turbocharger's ability to quickly spool up and provide a boost in power gives the EcoBoost engine a responsive and engaging driving experience.

  • Downsizing Potential: The turbocharger allows Ford to use smaller, more efficient engines in their vehicles without sacrificing performance, contributing to the overall fuel economy of their lineup.


The EcoBoost turbocharger is a key component that enables the engine to deliver a unique blend of power and efficiency, making it a popular choice among Ford enthusiasts and drivers alike.

Are 2.7 and 3.5 EcoBoost turbos the same?


The 2.7 EcoBoost again is standard in the F-150. To upgrade to the 3.5 EcoBoost. I think it varies a little bit from year to year but looking at new trucks it's about $1,500. Extra to upgrade to the



What type of turbo does an EcoBoost have?


1.6 L

1.6 L Ecoboost I-4
Layout
TurbochargerBorg Warner KP39 low-inertia turbo
Fuel systemDirect injection
ManagementBosch MED17



What turbos does a 3.5 EcoBoost have?


The stock turbos on the 3.5L EcoBoost are BorgWarner OEM twin turbos for 2017-2020 models. However, many owners upgrade to aftermarket options like the Garrett Powermax for more performance or other custom turbochargers from companies like CR Performance and KC Turbos to achieve higher horsepower and torque. The specifics of the aftermarket turbos vary widely depending on the desired performance level, from Stage 1 bolt-on upgrades to heavily modified kits.
 
You can watch this video for a visual overview of the 3.5L EcoBoost twin turbos: 1mBoostKing MattYouTube · Jun 12, 2024
Stock turbos

  • OEM Replacement: BorgWarner makes the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement turbos for 2017-2020 models.
  • Function: They are designed for reliability and direct fitment, providing the factory-level performance for which the truck was engineered. 

Aftermarket upgrades
  • Garrett: The Garrett Powermax is a popular upgrade, with Stage 1 for 2011-2016 models and Stage 2 for 2017-2020 models, offering significant flow increases over stock for more power. 
  • CR Performance: This company offers custom turbochargers, such as their Stage 4 and Stage 5 kits, which feature larger compressor and turbine wheels for increased performance. 
  • KC Turbos: They provide their own upgrade options, like the KC Reaper 500 series for 2011-2016 models, sometimes paired with an intercooler package. 
  • Stealth: The Tomahawk kit is an example of a high-performance upgrade designed to support higher RPMs and power levels, especially when combined with other modifications. 
  • Other options: There are other aftermarket suppliers, such as BD Diesel and Livernois Motorsports, who offer their own versions of upgraded turbos for the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. 



Is the EcoBoost twin turbo?


Yes, most Ford EcoBoost engines are twin-turbo, but it depends on the specific engine. Many popular EcoBoost engines, like the 3.5L and 2.7L V6s, use twin turbochargers to provide power similar to a larger V8 engine while using less fuel. However, some EcoBoost engines, such as certain 1.0L and 2.0L four-cylinder models, use a single turbocharger.
 
This video explains the features and components of the Ford EcoBoost engine: 59sUsed Car GuideYouTube · Jun 25, 2025
Twin-turbo EcoBoost engines

  • 3.5L V6: Widely known for its twin-turbo setup, this engine is used in models like the F-150 and has been used in the Ford GT. 
  • 2.7L V6: This is another popular twin-turbo V6 that is praised for its balance of performance and efficiency. 
  • 3.0L V6: Found in performance vehicles like the Ranger Raptor, this is a twin-turbocharged engine built by Ford Performance. 

Single-turbo EcoBoost engines
  • 1.0L and 2.0L: Some smaller EcoBoost four-cylinder engines use a single turbocharger to achieve their power and efficiency goals. 

Ultimately, to know for sure if your EcoBoost engine is twin-turbo, you will need to check the specifications for that specific engine, as the name is used across a wide range of different engine designs.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.