Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Engine Specs: Complete Performance Guide

Wondering if the 3.5 EcoBoost is the right engine for your needs? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current Ford or researching your next purchase, understanding what this powerplant offers can save you time and potentially thousands of dollars. Read on to discover why this twin-turbo V6 has become one of Ford’s most celebrated engines.

What Is the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Engine?

The 3.5 EcoBoost is Ford’s twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers V8-like power with better fuel efficiency. First introduced in 2010, this engine has evolved significantly while becoming the backbone of Ford’s truck and SUV lineup.

The engine features an aluminum block and heads to keep weight down, while the twin turbochargers provide impressive power and torque across a wide RPM range. With a 92.5mm bore and 86.6mm stroke, the slightly oversquare design allows for higher revs while still delivering substantial low-end torque.

First vs. Second Generation: What Changed?

The 3.5 EcoBoost has seen two distinct generations, with major improvements coming in 2017.

First Generation (2010-2016)

The original 3.5 EcoBoost featured:

• Direct fuel injection only
• 10.0:1 compression ratio
• Single primary timing chain
• Power output: 355-380 horsepower and 350-460 lb-ft of torque (depending on application)
• Six-speed automatic transmission

Second Generation (2017-Present)

The updated engine brought significant enhancements:

• Dual fuel injection (port and direct)
• Increased compression ratio (10.5:1 in most applications)
• Improved turbocharger design with electronic wastegates
• Dual-chain cam drive system for better durability
• Power boost to 375-450 horsepower (standard applications)
• Ten-speed automatic transmission
• Improved fuel economy by about 2 mpg city/1 mpg highway

These improvements didn’t just increase power—they also enhanced reliability and efficiency.

3.5 EcoBoost Power and Performance Specs

The 3.5 EcoBoost comes in multiple states of tune depending on the vehicle application. Here’s how they break down:

Standard Output (2017+ F-150)

• Horsepower: 375 hp @ 5,000 rpm
• Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

High Output (F-150 Raptor/Limited)

• Horsepower: 450 hp @ 5,000 rpm
• Torque: 510 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

Ford GT Supercar

• Horsepower: 647 hp @ 6,250 rpm
• Torque: 550 lb-ft @ 5,900 rpm

Commercial Applications (Transit)

• Horsepower: 320 hp @ 5,500 rpm
• Torque: 400 lb-ft @ 2,250 rpm

The wide range of tuning options shows how versatile this engine platform is—powering everything from work vans to supercars. The second-generation improvements delivered a noticeable performance boost across all applications.

Technical Specifications

For those who want the detailed specs, here’s what you need to know about the 3.5 EcoBoost:

The engine’s technical design makes it both powerful and relatively efficient, which explains its widespread use across the Ford lineup.

Which Ford Vehicles Use the 3.5 EcoBoost?

The 3.5 EcoBoost engine has been a versatile performer across Ford and Lincoln’s lineup:

Ford Models:

• F-150 (standard and high-output versions)
• Expedition
• Explorer Sport/Platinum
• Flex
• Taurus SHO
• GT Supercar
• Police Interceptor Utility
• Police Interceptor Sedan
• Transit

Lincoln Models:

• Navigator
• MKS
• MKT

Each application features specific tuning to match the vehicle’s purpose. For example, the F-150 Raptor version is optimized for off-road performance, while the Navigator is tuned for smooth luxury power delivery.

Fuel Economy: What to Expect

Despite its impressive power, the 3.5 EcoBoost delivers reasonable fuel economy for its capability:

2017+ F-150 with 3.5 EcoBoost:

• City: 17 mpg
• Highway: 21 mpg
• Combined: 19 mpg

These numbers represent a 2 mpg city and 1 mpg highway improvement over the first-generation engine. In real-world testing by Car and Driver, a 2017 F-150 with this engine returned 19 mpg in their 75-mph highway fuel economy test.

While these numbers might not seem revolutionary, they’re impressive considering the engine’s output. You’re essentially getting V8 power with V6 fuel consumption in many applications.

Maintenance Requirements

Keeping your 3.5 EcoBoost running properly requires attention to the following maintenance items:

Oil Changes

• Capacity: 6.0 quarts with filter
• Recommended Oil: SAE 5W-20 (early models), SAE 5W-30 GF6 (later models)
• Interval: Generally every 5,000-10,000 miles depending on usage

Cooling System

The 3.5 EcoBoost uses a sophisticated cooling system to manage turbocharger heat:

• 14.5-liter high-temperature loop
• 6.8-liter low-temperature loop

Additional Maintenance Considerations

• Turbos: The turbochargers require clean oil and proper warm-up/cool-down periods
• Intercooler: Periodic inspection for debris (especially important in off-road applications)
• Fuel System: The direct injection system is sensitive to fuel quality

Following Ford’s service recommendations is crucial for long-term reliability.

Common Questions About the 3.5 EcoBoost

How reliable is the 3.5 EcoBoost?

The second-generation 3.5 EcoBoost addressed many of the concerns from the first generation. The dual injection system helps prevent carbon buildup issues, while the improved timing chain design enhances longevity. When properly maintained, these engines can be quite reliable.

Can the 3.5 EcoBoost tow as well as a V8?

Yes, in many cases better. The 3.5 EcoBoost in the F-150 offers best-in-class towing capabilities. The 2021+ F-150 with this engine can tow up to 14,000 pounds when properly equipped, which exceeds many V8 competitors.

Does the 3.5 EcoBoost require premium fuel?

While Ford recommends regular 87-octane fuel for most applications, higher octane fuel can provide slight performance benefits. The Ford GT version does require premium fuel.

What improvements came with the 2025 F-150’s 3.5 EcoBoost?

The 2025 F-150 continues to offer the high-output 3.5 EcoBoost in the Raptor model with 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. While the core engine remains similar to the previous generation, Ford has continued to refine the tuning and integration with the 10-speed transmission.

Advantages of the 3.5 EcoBoost Engine

The 3.5 EcoBoost offers several advantages over traditional naturally aspirated engines:

Power Density

With up to 450 horsepower from just 3.5 liters in standard applications, the power-to-displacement ratio is exceptional. This allows the engine to deliver V8 power in a smaller, lighter package.

Torque Curve

Perhaps the biggest advantage is the torque delivery. The twin-turbo setup provides peak torque at much lower RPMs than naturally aspirated engines. In F-150 applications, peak torque arrives at just 2,500 rpm, making for excellent real-world drivability and towing capability.

Fuel Economy

Despite the high power output, the 3.5 EcoBoost can deliver better fuel economy than comparable V8s, especially in city driving where the smaller displacement is beneficial.

Flexibility

The ability to tune this engine for applications ranging from commercial vans to supercars demonstrates its remarkable flexibility as a platform.

Potential Drawbacks

No engine is perfect, and the 3.5 EcoBoost does have some considerations:

Complexity

The twin-turbo setup with direct injection is more complex than a naturally aspirated engine, potentially leading to higher repair costs outside of warranty.

Heat Management

Turbocharged engines generate more heat, requiring robust cooling systems and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures.

Real-World Fuel Economy

While capable of good efficiency, aggressive driving or heavy towing can cause fuel economy to drop significantly as the turbos work harder.

Turbo Lag

Though minimal in modern applications, there’s still a slight delay in throttle response compared to naturally aspirated engines.

Is the 3.5 EcoBoost Right for You?

The ideal buyer for a 3.5 EcoBoost-powered vehicle is someone who:

• Values performance and capability
• Does frequent towing or hauling
• Wants V8-like power with potentially better fuel economy
• Appreciates modern engine technology
• Doesn’t mind following strict maintenance schedules

If you’re considering a Ford with this engine, test drive it back-to-back with other options to see if the power delivery suits your driving style. For most F-150, Expedition, and Navigator buyers, the 3.5 EcoBoost represents an excellent balance of power, capability, and reasonable efficiency.

The Future of the 3.5 EcoBoost

As Ford continues evolving its powertrain strategy, the 3.5 EcoBoost remains a key player. The 2025 F-150 lineup still features this engine in various applications, showing Ford’s continued confidence in the platform.

While electrification is coming to many vehicles (including the F-150 Lightning), the 3.5 EcoBoost will likely continue as a mainstay option for those who need traditional internal combustion power with modern efficiency for years to come.

For many buyers, this engine represents the best of both worlds—V8-like capability with the potential for better fuel economy and a smaller carbon footprint.