New 3.7L V6 for 2011 Mustang Features Ti-VCT System Also Slated for 2.0L EcoBoost
30 November 2009
| Ti-VCT components. Click to enlarge. |
Ford is introducing its 2011 Mustang with a new 3.7-liter, dual-overhead-camshaft (DOHC) 24-valve V-6 using Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), also featured in the 2.0L EcoBoost engine announced in July (earlier post). The new V6 can produce 305 hp (227 kW) of power and 280 lb-ft (380 N·m) of torque.
Coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, the 3.7L engine delivers 19 mpg US city/30 highway—a 19% improvement on city fuel economy and a 25% improvement on highway fuel economy compared to the 2010 model (16 mpg city/24 highway). With a six-speed manual, the 2011 Mustang delivers 18 mpg city/29 highway, up from 18 mpg city/26 highway on the 2010 model with manual. Ti-VCT can account for up to a 4.5% fuel economy improvement over non-VCT-equipped engines, according to Ford.
| Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) uses electronic solenoid valves to direct high-pressure oil to control vanes in each of the camshaft sprocket housings. Click to enlarge. |
The high output is due largely to Ti-VCT, which allows variable control of valve operation across the rev range. The variable cams operate on a Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket (DAMB) valvetrain using polished buckets and roller finger followers to reduce friction. The end result is as much as a 3% improvement in fuel economy and a 10% improvement in power output versus traditional engines without these advanced features.
Ti-VCT enables extremely precise variable control of valve overlap—the window of time in which both the intake and exhaust valves in the engine are open simultaneously. By adjusting overlap continuously, an engine can operate at optimum settings for peak fuel economy or peak power output as conditions demand. Ti-VCT also facilitates an “internal EGR” effect, reducing NOx and hydrocarbon emissions throughout the engine’s operating range.
This overlap control via Ti-VCT helps us eliminate compromises in the induction and exhaust systems. Drivers are going to notice improved low-speed torque and increased fuel economy and peak horsepower. Plus, there are benefits they won’t notice, too, such as reduced emissions overall, especially at part-throttle.
—Jim Mazuchowski, Ford manager of V-6 powertrain operations
As a DOHC design, the 3.7-liter V-6 uses two camshafts per cylinder bank—one to open the intake valves and one to open the exhaust valves. Traditionally, camshafts only have been able to open the valves at a fixed point defined during engine design and manufacturing. But with modern variable cam timing systems, the camshafts can be rotated slightly relative to their initial position, allowing the cam timing to be advanced or retarded.
Ti-VCT takes this technology and applies it to both the intake and exhaust camshafts of its DOHC design, using electronic solenoid valves to direct high-pressure oil to control vanes in each of the camshaft sprocket housings. By using one valve per camshaft, controlled by the Electronic Control Module (ECM), each intake and exhaust cam can be advanced or retarded independently of the other as engine operating conditions change, providing an exceptional degree of valve timing control.
Ti-VCT is complemented by special-tuned composite upper and lower intake manifolds for efficient air delivery and lighter weight. Ignition power is delivered by a high-energy coil-on-plug design, while piston-cooling jets and a lightweight die-cast aluminum cylinder block improve the durability and efficiency of the 3.7-liter V-6 design.
In addition to the six-speed transmissions, other system improvements enhancing fuel economy include:
A new Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system which eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump.
Aerodynamic improvements such as a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal.
When customers think EV's and are clearly fed up with poor gas mileage, it's interesting how innovative the "it can't be done" auto companies become.
Posted by: kelly | 30 November 2009 at 05:59 AM
18 and 19 mpg US city is nothing to brag about.
Posted by: Will S | 30 November 2009 at 07:00 AM
This is not good news but one more step towards the 500+ hp ICE monsters.
This belongs in the 1950 era.
Posted by: HarveyD | 30 November 2009 at 07:47 AM
"18 and 19 mpg US city is nothing to brag about."
Compared to what it used to get, it is...but yes that is still quite pitiful - if you are interested in a car for fuel economy solely.
The highway numbers look pretty decent with the auto-tranny. Then again, if you want fuel efficiency you are looking at the wrong type of car. It is like a vegetarian going into a steakhouse and then complaining that the vegetable portions served with the steaks are too small.
Posted by: Patrick | 30 November 2009 at 01:50 PM
I welcome the addition of a brand new V6 platform. Out of the gate, the all-alloy V6 has most of the features of the Ford Eco-Tech V6s. But not yet the 'Eco-Boost' versions. I'm sure that they will come, and both will displace some V8s.
Posted by: Stan Peterson | 30 November 2009 at 02:13 PM
There are fundamental limits to what can be achieved in terms for fuel economy given that its is value for money muscle car.
In short Cheap Powerful fuel efficient.....choose any two
So if you think 300+ HP and 19mpg(city) for 22000USD is nothing to brag about, go get yourself a Prius/Honda fit
Posted by: Vishnu Nair | 30 November 2009 at 03:54 PM
"This is not good news but one more step towards the 500+ hp ICE monsters. This belongs in the 1950 era"
Lets not make it about political correctness that our times demand. This is a country based on principles of Freedom. So if I want to spend my hard earned money on a 500HP car, I should be able to. And yup I will :). Yay to HP wars
Posted by: Vishnu Nair | 30 November 2009 at 04:00 PM
As these engines become increasingly more complicated, esp V6s(double cats, 4 O2 sensors, double VVT components)in tight locations with added heat and the inescapable sealing problems Vs present, why risk blowing the whole thing up with timing belts?? Sealed bearings and belts doom every mfgs engines...usually way out of warranty. Give ME I-engines with well-lubed sprockets and timing CHAINS anyday.
The name of the game is still the most power with the least weight, but ease of maintenance, service(hence durability) is endearing also.
Posted by: fred | 30 November 2009 at 05:27 PM
Where is the glory to drive around on city streets in a 500 hp or even a 1000 hp monster?
I thought that we had evolved past that point years and even decades ago!
Posted by: HarveyD | 01 December 2009 at 09:08 AM
What happens when a nob takes his NEW!!!(only 500miles on it) 1000hp sports car to get some milk; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3vDrH0es_k&feature=related
...and he wasn't speeding either, the guy filming had to slow down to 40mph to keep the car in frame.
Posted by: ai_vin | 01 December 2009 at 12:27 PM
Freedom to drive a powerful gas guzzler stops when you are infringing upon other's rights to affordable available fuel and the air that we all breath. You do not have the right to cause harm to others, this is an obvious principle.
Posted by: SJC | 01 December 2009 at 03:23 PM
"Freedom to drive a powerful gas guzzler stops when you are infringing upon other's rights to affordable available fuel and the air that we all breath."
So if you live in an area that primarily gets power from coal you must be infringing upon other's rights if you use a CPU more powerful than the minimum necessary to carry out your day to day tasks. Same with your TV screen size. Same with your choice of clothes, food, length of shower etc.
Now, since you mentioned it, please show evidence to indicate that the V-6 Mustang in this article will "infringe" on someone's rights to breathe air (or rather clean air which I assume was your point). Also explain how we have a "right" to affordable gasoline? Do we each get a specific number of gallons we are allowed to use? Is it "financial" harm you speak of when the price of fuels are driven up by gas guzzling vehicles? I am confused here and need some clarification because wouldn't a profit motive be deemed financial harm as well? Therefore, all business should operate only on business expenses with no profits and the workers needn't get bonuses nor raises lest they financially harm the consumers - but that harms the workers in the same sense (seems to be a never ending struggle there). Do you tip generously? Do you commute by bicycle? Are you a lawyer? I can find "financial harm" in a variety of situations to differing levels (differing levels of harm and nonsense).
Posted by: Patrick | 02 December 2009 at 11:27 AM
There would be nothing wrong with aplying more common sense with regards to vehicle size, speed, fuel consumption etc.
Lately, I've seen a few joy riders with huuuuge (much bigger than Hummer) new heavily chromed International 4-door, streched cab, 4 x 4 pick-up on 24-in wheels + two huuuge side mufflers + 3 chromed steps to reach the cab etc. That's a perfect example of how redicule we can get.
Posted by: HarveyD | 02 December 2009 at 04:52 PM
This might not be pollitically very correct but vertically challenged larakins of my youth had very big m/cycles I guess these big statements could be compensating for the males feeling challenged in other dept's.
'Maybe someone will notice me'
Posted by: arnold | 03 December 2009 at 04:51 AM
19/30 with 300+ hp is good. My C230k is 20/30 with a 1.8l supercharged I4. It climbs mountains amazingly well but has only 189 hp which still works in a 3250 lb. My point is that the Camaro has a 300 hp V6 standard and now so will the Mustang.
Posted by: SJC | 15 December 2009 at 08:23 PM