Ford says thenext-gen 3.5-liter EcoBoost now makes 450 lb-ft of torque, 30 lb-ft more than before (horsepower remains at 365). The bump in output makes the 3.5-liter EcoBoost the most powerful V-6 in its class, even surpassing the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 in the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel (240 hp and 420 lb-ft).

2017 Ford F 150 35 liter EcoBoost engine and 10 speed transmission

2017 Ford F 150 Second gen 35 liter EcoBoost engine

The list of improvements in the 3.5-liter EcoBoost include dual injection (port and direct), more responsive turbos with lighter turbine wheels and electrically activated wastegates, and lighter camshafts.

Additionally, the new 10-speed automatic replaces the outgoing six-speed gearbox and should improve efficiency. The new drivetrain isn't EPA-rated just yet, but numbers should jump from the 2016 Ford F-150, which is rated at 16/22 mpg city/highway with the outgoing 3.5-liter EcoBoost and six-speed (rear-drive model). The new transmission should also trickle down to the 5.0-liter V-8 and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6. For 2017, all EcoBoost F-150s also receive standard start-stop tech.

As previously reported, Ford partnered with General Motors to develop the new gearbox. Ford will start building the 10-speed next month at its Livonia Transmission Plant in Michigan where it has invested $1.4 billion in updating the facility and additional employees. Ford says the 2017 F-150 should be ready to roll into showrooms by fall.

Source: Ford