The Ford SHO is a 2,997 cc, V6 twin — turbo petrol engine introduced in 2023 as a high — performance variant within Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features a DOHC 24‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and twin twin‑scroll turbochargers with an integrated intercooler. In standard form it produces 272–294 kW (370–400 PS) with torque between 510–560 Nm, offering aggressive mid‑range thrust and sustained high‑rpm power.
Fitted exclusively to the Ford Explorer ST and Edge ST in…
All production years (2023–present) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10511).
The Ford SHO is a 2,997 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engineered for performance SUV applications (2023–present). It combines direct injection with twin twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver aggressive low-end torque and sustained high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 6d from launch, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,997 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 98 RON min) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
Power output | 272–294 kW (370–400 PS) | |
Torque | 510–560 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual electric pumps and auxiliary oil cooler | |
Turbocharger | Twin twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C949‑A (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Ford SHO was used exclusively in Ford's CD6 platform SUVs with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—enhanced cooling and reinforced mounts in the Explorer ST—and from Q1 2025 the Edge ST adopted updated ECU calibration for cam lobe durability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The SHO's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam lobe wear on both intake camshafts under sustained high-load or aggressive driving conditions. Ford internal data from 2024 indicated elevated HPFP-related warranty claims in pre-Q1-2025 builds, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF control. Aggressive driving without cooldown cycles and marginal fuel quality amplify wear, making fuel specification and post-drive idle critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2023–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The SHO is robust when maintained properly. Early models (2023–Q4 2024) had HPFP cam lobe concerns, but Ford’s Q1 2025 update resolved most issues. Using 98 RON fuel, adhering to oil specs (0W-20 WSS-M2C949-A), and allowing post-drive cooldown greatly enhance longevity.
Top issues include HPFP cam lobe wear (pre-Q1 2025), GPF clogging from short trips, turbo wastegate rattle, and minor valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Ford TSBs and are manageable with proper maintenance.
The SHO powers the Explorer ST (Mk6, 2023–present) and Edge ST (Mk2, 2023–present) in 3.0L EcoBoost V6 form. Both are transverse-mounted CD6-platform SUVs, compliant with Euro 6d emissions.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +30–50 kW safely due to strong stock internals. However, aggressive tuning without cam lobe and HPFP upgrades may accelerate wear. Ford’s factory overboost already delivers 560 Nm temporarily.
In an Explorer ST, expect ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.9 L/100km (highway), or ~28 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 24–30 mpg (UK), depending on driving style and GPF regeneration cycles.
Yes. The SHO is an interference engine. Timing chain failure—though rare due to front-mounted design—could cause piston-to-valve contact. Ford specifies the chain as lifetime, but severe oil neglect may compromise it.
Ford mandates 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting WSS-M2C949-A specification. This low-viscosity oil ensures GPF compatibility and proper chain lubrication. Do not substitute with older 5W-30 or non-approved oils.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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