Ford gives update on upcoming four-cylinder EcoBoost

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Though dual-clutch automatic transmissions and high-output, turbocharged engines have come to the forefront across the pond in efficiency-conscious Europe of late, the fad hasn’t quite caught on over here in torque converter-loving North America. But according to a presentation we were given last week in Dearborn, Mich., Ford is looking to implement similar drivetrain technologies in the domestic market and will introduce a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and dual-clutch gearbox as early as 2010. In the world of automotive manufacturing, that’s just around the corner.

Though this was far from the first we’ve heard of the upcoming 2.0-liter, four-cylinder mill, it was the first time we were given concrete output numbers. And impressed we were, as the new engine will have an estimated output of 230 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque, thanks not only to the turbocharger but also to twin independent variable cam timing. Big numbers, those.

Ford is looking to make EcoBoost engines available on more than 90% of its fleet by 2013. We were told the 3.5-liter V6 currently offered in numerous vehicles will soon be making its way into the F-150 lineup, but when asked how the high-output 2.0-liter might fare in Ford’s iconic hauler, the engineers answered with a terse yet effective “no.”

A new dual-clutch gearbox is also on its way, and according to Ford engineers, it will be a dry-clutch setup. The elimination of hydraulic fluid from the transmission increases efficiency and reduces the unit’s overall weight. Sticking with Ford’s new vernacular of smashing two words into one, the new transmission, dubbed PowerShift, is currently available on some products in Europe. Expect to hear more in the coming months.

-- Brian Alexander

Brian Alexander is a staff writer at DriverSide.com