The Ford KGBA is a 2,261 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2022 and 2025. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost Gen-4 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 213 kW (290 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, combining high performance with advanced thermal management and emissions control.
Fitted to models including the Ranger Raptor, Everest, and Explorer, the KGBA engine was engineered for high-load applications such as towing and off-road driving. Its robust design includes reinforced internals, enhanced cooling, and a high-flow turbocharger to sustain performance under extreme conditions. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and gasoline particulate filter (GPF), enabling Euro 6d-ISC compliance across all production years (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9205).
One documented concern involves intermittent high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) rail pressure drop under sustained high-load operation, noted in Ford Service Action 23C09. This issue arises from early-design HPFP plunger wear due to thermal stress and low-lubricity fuel, leading to lean misfire and power reduction. From mid-2024, an updated HPFP with improved plunger coating and recalibrated fuel map was implemented to enhance durability and consistency.
All production years (2022–2025) meet Euro 6d-ISC emissions standards (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9205).
The Ford KGBA is a 2,261 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for performance and utility applications (2022–2025). It combines direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle delivery. Engineered to meet Euro 6d-ISC standards, it balances rugged capability with regulatory compliance in pickup and SUV platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,261 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-ISC (2022–2025) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with electronic wastegate control | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The KGBA delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for towing and off-road use but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbocharger and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection against turbo coking. High-pressure fuel pump degradation under sustained load increases risk of lean misfire, particularly in high-torque applications. The gasoline particulate filter (GPF) necessitates regular highway runs to support passive regeneration and avoid clogging. Post-2024 models feature revised HPFP hardware and calibration per Ford SIB 23C09, improving reliability. Use of 98 RON fuel enhances knock resistance and allows full power delivery under load.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 23C09). Supersedes ACEA C5 and API SP.
Emissions: Euro 6d-ISC certification applies to all 2022–2025 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9205).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 213 kW output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance (Ford TIS Doc. WSA-2022-KGBA).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs WSA-2022-KGBA, SIB 23C09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/FORD/9205)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Ford KGBA was used across Ford's T6 and U725 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volvo for certain global performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Ranger Raptor and revised intercooler routing in the Explorer-and from 2024 the facelifted Everest adopted the KGBA variant with enhanced cooling and GPF monitoring, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS WSA-2022-KGBA). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('W' for KGBA series). Pre-2024 models have gloss-black valve covers with silver Ford lettering; post-2024 units use updated casting marks. Critical differentiation from JQMA: KGBA has turbocharging and higher output, while JQMA is naturally aspirated hybrid unit. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 06/2024 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 23C09).
The KGBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-load operation. Internal Ford quality reports from 2024 indicated a significant number of pre-2024 units required HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased lean-mixture-related MOT failures in performance variants. Aggressive driving and delayed oil changes increase turbo and GPF stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2022-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KGBA.
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