Ford’s 2.3 EcoBoost engine is somewhat reminiscent of the 2.3L turbo engine from back in the 1980s. While it shares absolutely nothing with its predecessor, save for displacement only, it does brings back memories of how Ford could take a little engine and get it to do quite a lot! It seems as if Ford hasn’t forgotten how to put big things in small packages.
One of the cool aspects of the original 2.3 turbo engine is that there was (and still is) a large aftermarket following for it. From front-mounted intercoolers to 3-inch exhaust systems, the 2.3 had plenty to offer the masses. Likewise, the new EcoBoost has not only surpassed the original 2.3 in power, but it also can promise big things through the aftermarket. Hence, we come to Borla’s EcoBoost 2.3L Turbocharger Upgrade Kit for 2015-17 EcoBoost Mustangs.
The installation will be performed by Bill Tumas and Michael “Freddy” Fredericks of CJ Pony Parts, that carries this kit in their inventory. This is a well-engineered kit from Borla that includes an upgraded turbo, a much larger intercooler, new stainless steel downpipe and exhaust components, high-flow air filter and stainless steel intake tube, as well as all attaching hardware, just to name a few items. It even comes with a tuner to flash the stock computer with a new tune to take full advantage of the new components.
The installation is pretty involved, and looks intimidating; as it requires removal of the front fascia, as well as the factory turbo charger and part of the exhaust, but Bill and Freddy take you through the major steps and make it look easy. This will definitely take up the better part of your weekend.
The finished product looks like it came from the factory like that, but with 100-plus more horsepower. Borla reports initial testing yielded 380hp and 410lb-ft of torque at 24psi—more than enough to make you king of the EcoBoost crowd, and you may even catch some Mustang GT owners asleep at the wheel! If you thought all Borla could make was exhaust systems, then you need to give them another look!
Living in Richmond, Tx, PJ Rentie has been in the automotive industry for more than 30 years. This former Assistant Editor at Vette Magazine also spent time with companies like NOS, Edelbrock, Hillbank Motorsports, Classic Industries, and was an automotive instructor for Cypress College for ten years. In his spare time, PJ hopes to one day bring his Fox Body Mustang out of the back yard and back onto the street!
