2013 Ford Mustang GT Convertible

2013 Ford Mustang GT Convertible

In May of last year we brought you the exclusive that an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine was destined for the Mustang, perhaps not in the current generation but in the all-new model set to be unveiled late next year.

Now we have confirmation from Ford product chief Derrick Kuzak.

Speaking with Autoweek on the sidelines of the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Kuzak said that a Mustang EcoBoost was a very safe bet at some point in the near future.

The comments come as little surprise given Ford’s previous promise to fit an EcoBoost engine to 90 percent of its lineup in the U.S. by 2013.

EcoBoost, which pairs a number of technologies including direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing in order to boost performance while reducing fuel consumption, is already available on several four-cylinder and V-6 engines in the Ford parts bin.

The only question is which EcoBoost engine Ford will use in the Mustang. Our best guess is the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine used in the 2012 Ford Focus ST, which is rated at 250 horsepower.

If it’s a four-cylinder then we’re very likely to see the Mustang with a three-engine lineup. That’s right; V-8 fans needn’t worry as the Mustang’s 5.0-liter V-8 will almost certainly carry over into the next-generation of the iconic muscle car, though it may be upgraded with direct-injection technology.

Stay tuned for an update.

Ford most recently upgraded the Mustang for the 2013 model year, which you can read about by clicking here.