The only sign that this mule isn't a run-of-the-mill Lincoln Navigator is dual exhaust coming out the passenger side of the Ford SUV, a fairly clear indication that Ford's new 4.4-liter diesel engine is lurking under the Navigator's hood. Eariler today an F-150 mule was also caught prowling around, also with the diesel on board.
Details of the 4.4-liter V-8, which will also appear in many of the expected places such as the F-150, Super Duty, and E-Series large vans, were leaked earlier this month after a recent Ford dealer meeeting. The engine is closely related to the 3.6-liter turbodiesel installed in European Jaguars and Land Rovers and is being designed in-house to be built at the automaker's Chihuahua, Mexico engine plant.
Compared to the current 5.4-liter V-8 found in many of Ford's larger vehicles, the new diesel is said to achieve nine percent more horsepower, 15 percent more lb-ft. of torque, and 20 percent better fuel economy, respectively. The automaker says 0 to 60 times in the two engines will be about the same. In addition, Ford is developing a urea injection system along the lines of Mercedes' Bluetec diesels to keep the new 4.4-liter running clean.
The diesel variant of the Navigator should arrive shortly after its expected freshening for 2010, either as a late-introduction 2010 model or as a 2011. It should also make its way into its Expedition sibling about the same time.