As you know by now, an EcoBoost 4-cylinder motor is coming to the Mustang lineup. With it becoming the new base motor, with 247-250 horses, will it lure in the economy-minded, style-set and/or the tuner types? 1) Economy minded? If this motor can give the Explorer 28 highway, in a Mustang it should be good for mid 30s. Of course, expect a few mpg gain in the city too. But will that be enough of a gain over the already impressive mpg numbers the V6 Mustang gets? Especially, if Ford tacks on an additional thousand bucks to get the EcoBoost like they do if you opt for it in the Explorer. 2) The style set? If you're one of those who likes pretty sheet metal first and rumble and horsepower second, does it really matter it's a four or six under the hood? 3) Tuner Types? For those who bow at the 4-cylinder alter, will a boosted 4-banger under the hood of the Mustang gain their admiration?
I am guessing mostly three (3), with a touch of one (1). I think the boosted four will really appeal to this younger demographic -- those who LOVE turbos, and drifting --a younger crowd the Mustang has lately been desperately trying to appeal to. The higher MPG numbers, when advertised, will also catch the attention of those who prioritize their choices by MPG.
With this all said, I feel a higher-performance EcoBoost is a MUST! (The name SVO is a no-brainer.) Something on the order of 350 horses would be perfect. A motor like that in the Mustang would prove the car's potential to the tuner crowd, sparking their conversations and comparisons to many imports choices, like the upcoming Subaru BRZ. Plus, it wouldn't offend the Mustang faithful, as most were quite fond of the the original. A car that's not much of a stretch to regard as the 1980's version of the Boss 302.
Comments?
Patrick