Newest F-150 performance model has a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 under the hood

Efficient performance

The writing is on the wall. With gasoline prices bouncing between $3.50 and $4.00 per gallon and higher fuel efficiency targets on the horizon, it's only natural that manufacturers are taking a closer look at every model in their lineup to see where they can gain an edge in fuel economy – a task which becomes more difficult when it comes to their performance models.

It appears that Ford Motor Company has been thinking along these lines as the manufacturer just announced that their latest F-150-based sport truck will, in place of a V8, come with a turbocharged V6 under the hood.

2014 Ford F-150 Tremor

According to Ford, its first-ever EcoBoost-powered sport truck "addresses the needs of street truck enthusiasts looking for high-performance V8 power with V6 fuel economy."

As such, the new 2014 F-150 Tremor, when it reaches dealers this fall, will be available only as a short-wheelbase, regular-cab model. All Tremors will feature an FX appearance package (flat-black accents, bodyside graphics, and black badges with red lettering) and 20-inch flat-black finished alloy wheels as well as a 4.10 rear axle – the shortest offered in a turbocharged F-150.

Inside, owners will get the only regular-cab F-150 offering Ford's flow-through center console with bucket seats. Additional touches include black leather seats with Alcantara inserts piped in red, brushed metal accents and a red-stitched leather steering wheel.

According to F-150 product manager Brian Bell, "The new Tremor gives F-150 customers yet another option to drive a highly capable, distinctive performance truck with features typically found only in the aftermarket."

3.5 liter EcoBoost

The 3.5-liter engine's particulars are as follows:

•    365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
•    420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm
•    Twin independent variable camshaft timing
•    Up to 90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm

New interface

The Tremor will be available in either two- or four-wheel-drive iterations with a standard electronic locking rear diff. Also standard is Ford's new Sync with MyFord Touch interface which features additional physical buttons for climate control and audio presets on the center console.