The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for over four decades, and for good reason. It’s reliable, and versatile, and offers a range of engine options to suit every need. Two of the most popular engine options for the F-150 are the 2.7L EcoBoost and the 3.5L EcoBoost.
Both engines offer a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and emissions, but there are some key differences between the two.
Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost
The 2.7L EcoBoost is a twin-turbocharged V6 engine that was first introduced in the 2015 Ford F-150. It features a compacted graphite iron block, which is lighter and stronger than traditional cast iron, and aluminum heads. This helps reduce the engine’s weight while improving its strength and durability.
In the 2021 Ford F-150, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine produces 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. It features both direct and port fuel injection, which helps optimize fuel delivery and combustion for improved power and efficiency. The 2.7L EcoBoost also features auto start-stop technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal. This helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions during city driving.
See Also: Ford 2.7 Ecoboost Problems
The 2.7L EcoBoost is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers a wide range of gear ratios for optimal performance and efficiency. This engine has a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 2,480 pounds when properly equipped.
Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost
The 3.5L EcoBoost is also a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, but it is larger and more powerful than the 2.7L EcoBoost. It was first introduced in the 2011 Ford F-150 and has been updated several times since then. In the 2021 Ford F-150, the 3.5L EcoBoost produces up to 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Like the 2.7L EcoBoost, it features both direct and port fuel injection, auto start-stop technology, and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The 3.5L EcoBoost has a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 3,250 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it one of the most capable engines in the F-150 lineup.
See Also: Ford F150 3.5 EcoBoost Engine Problems
Comparison F150 2.7 VS 3.5 Ecoboost
1) Application:
The 2.7L EcoBoost is designed to provide a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and emissions, making it a suitable choice for everyday driving and light to moderate towing. It is often used in mid-range models of the Ford F-150 and other vehicles in the Ford lineup, such as the Ford Edge and Ford Fusion.
On the other hand, the 3.5L EcoBoost is designed for those who need more power and towing capacity. It is used in higher-end models of the Ford F-150, as well as in the Ford Expedition and Ford Transit. It is also used in the high-performance Ford Raptor.
2) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Vs 3.5 EcoBoost Specs:
The 2.7L EcoBoost produces 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L EcoBoost produces up to 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Both engines feature direct and port fuel injection, and auto start-stop technology, and are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. However, the 3.5L EcoBoost has a larger displacement and higher compression ratio, which helps it produce more power and torque.
3) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Vs 3.5 EcoBoost MPG:
The 2.7L EcoBoost is slightly more fuel-efficient than the 3.5L EcoBoost. According to the EPA, the 2.7L EcoBoost has a fuel economy rating of up to 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the 3.5L EcoBoost has a fuel economy rating of up to 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. However, actual fuel consumption may vary based on driving conditions and vehicle load.
4) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Vs 3.5 EcoBoost Towing:
The 3.5L EcoBoost has a higher towing capacity than the 2.7L EcoBoost. The 2.7L EcoBoost has a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, while the 3.5L EcoBoost has a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes the 3.5L EcoBoost a better choice for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
5) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Vs 3.5 EcoBoost 0-60:
The 3.5L EcoBoost offers slightly faster acceleration than the 2.7L EcoBoost. According to Ford, the 2.7L EcoBoost can accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds, while the 3.5L EcoBoost can do it in approximately 5.6 seconds. However, actual acceleration times may vary based on vehicle load and driving conditions.
6) Max Engine Speed:
The 2.7L EcoBoost has a maximum engine speed of 5,500 rpm, while the 3.5L EcoBoost has a maximum engine speed of 6,000 rpm. This higher engine speed helps the 3.5L EcoBoost produce more power and torque.
7) Horsepower:
The 2.7L EcoBoost produces 325 horsepower, while the 3.5L EcoBoost produces up to 400 horsepower. This additional horsepower helps the 3.5L EcoBoost provide better performance, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
8) Torque:
The 2.7L EcoBoost produces 400 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L EcoBoost produces up to 500 lb-ft of torque. This additional torque helps the 3.5L EcoBoost provide better low-end power and towing capacity.
9) Engine Weight:
The 2.7L EcoBoost has a lighter engine weight than the 3.5L EcoBoost. The 2.7L EcoBoost has a dry weight of approximately 365 lbs, while the 3.5L EcoBoost has a dry weight of approximately 449 lbs. This lighter weight helps improve the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and handling.
10) Price:
The 2.7L EcoBoost is less expensive than the 3.5L EcoBoost, both in terms of upfront cost and fuel consumption. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the extra power and towing capacity of the 3.5L EcoBoost.
11) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Vs 3.5 EcoBoost Reliability:
Both the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines are generally considered to be reliable. However, there have been some reported issues with both engines, including problems with the timing chain, turbochargers, and coolant leaks. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent most of these issues.
Ultimately, both engines have proven to be durable and reliable for the majority of owners.
Ford F150 2.7L EcoBoost Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2.7L EcoBoost engine offers better fuel efficiency compared to the 3.5L, making it a more economical choice for everyday driving.
- Cost: The upfront cost of the 2.7L EcoBoost engine is lower than the 3.5L EcoBoost, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Weight: The engine’s lighter weight contributes to the vehicle’s overall handling and fuel efficiency.
- Sufficient Power for Daily Use: For most drivers, the 2.7L EcoBoost provides more than enough power for everyday driving and light towing.
Cons:
- Lower Towing Capacity: The 2.7L EcoBoost has a lower towing capacity compared to the 3.5L, which can be a limiting factor for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
- Lower Power and Torque: While the 2.7L EcoBoost is powerful enough for most applications, it does not have the same level of power and torque as the 3.5L EcoBoost.
Ford F150 3.5L EcoBoost Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Higher Power and Torque: The 3.5L EcoBoost engine offers higher power and torque, providing better performance, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
- Higher Towing Capacity: With a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds when properly equipped, the 3.5L EcoBoost is suitable for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
- Good Acceleration: The 3.5L EcoBoost offers slightly faster acceleration compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost.
- Wide Application: The 3.5L EcoBoost is used in a wide range of Ford vehicles, including high-performance models like the Ford Raptor.
Cons:
- Fuel Efficiency: While the 3.5L EcoBoost is still relatively fuel-efficient for an engine of its size and power, it is not as fuel-efficient as the 2.7L EcoBoost.
- Cost: The upfront cost and the cost of ownership (fuel consumption, maintenance) of the 3.5L EcoBoost are higher compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost.
- Weight: The 3.5L EcoBoost is heavier than the 2.7L EcoBoost, which can impact the vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency.
Both the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines have their advantages and drawbacks. The right choice depends on your needs and priorities. If you need more power and towing capacity, the 3.5L EcoBoost may be the better option. If you are looking for a more economical and budget-friendly option, the 2.7L EcoBoost may be more suitable.
Conclusion
Both the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines are solid choices for the Ford F-150. The right engine for you will depend on your specific needs and how you plan to use your vehicle. If you need more power and towing capacity, the 3.5L EcoBoost may be the better choice.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers plenty of power for everyday driving, the 2.7L EcoBoost may be a better fit. Ultimately, both engines offer a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and emissions, making them good choices for a wide range of buyers.
