This subtle hint suggests that a turbo Mustang with higher horsepower could be possible.
The 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost high performance package was unveiled at the 2019 New York Auto Show. It might be the longest name for a Pony car you can recall. The 2.3L EcoBoost four cylinder is linked to the Ford Focus RS and tuned for 330 horsepower, 350 lb-ft torque. The engine has a wider torque curve, quad-tip exhaust, front brake rotors from Mustang GT and upgraded sway bars. It also features specially calibrated magnetic dampers. This is the leapfrog solution to the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro which was launched in the second quarter of 2018.
Fans wondered why the Mustang 2.3L turbocharged mini-monster wasn’t sporting an iconic SVO badge as it did 35 years ago. It seems the recipe is there: A robust 2.3L turbo engine with tons of performance hardware, V8-rivalling speed and a track-attack pedigree.
Why not just call it the Mustang SVO instead? There’s more to come, it seems.
When we asked why, a spokesperson for Ford said “Not this” during the media-only unveiling event at Corktown in Detroit.
Older readers might have fond memories of Mustang SVO. From 1984 to 1986 Ford produced a 2.3L turbofour to replace the 5.0-liter V8. It was almost as powerful as the V8. For the Fox Body Mustang’s ride and handling, the lighter engine was a huge benefit. The Mustang SVO was also among the most powerful and expensive Mustangs of its era.
Maybe that’s why the SVO badge wasn’t on the latest model. Although the 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Package may be one of the most powerful and expensive Mustangs, it is far from being the fastest. There’s still plenty to love about the 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Package, which boasts a 0-60 speed of approximately four seconds, better handling, and a loud exhaust note.
Is the Mustang EcoBoost capable of going faster? This would be the only way to see the SVO moniker returned.