What Is The Ford Gen 4X 5.0L Coyote V8? 16 January 2025 All Articles Previous / Next Ford’s latest Coyote V8 is a crate engine developed exclusively for the aftermarket crowd with better tunability and easier customization potential. Here's how: The 5.0L Coyote V8 engine family has been a staple of Ford performance since its introduction in the 2011 Mustang GT. Since then, it has become an iconic engine for sports car enthusiasts and custom vehicle builders. With the debut of the fourth-generation (Gen IV) Coyote in the redesigned 2024 Mustang, Ford expanded its legacy by introducing a specialized version of the engine for the aftermarket—dubbed the Gen 4X. This tuner-friendly variant of the Gen IV Coyote engine provides builders with a platform that combines modern performance with easier integration into custom vehicles. Last year, Velocity Restorations marked a massive milestone in the classic car restoration industry with the completion of its 500th vintage Ford Bronco restomod build. This project featured the first aftermarket application of Ford’s Gen 4X 5.0L Coyote V8, showcasing the engine’s potential in restomods. Velocity has touched on this engine in the past, but Ford Muscle further explored the Gen 4X at last year’s SEMA show, where they interviewed Mike Goodwin from Ford Performance to uncover the technical differences and important advantages between this new crate engine and the factory-spec Gen III and Gen IV Coyote V8s. Explore Velocity’s 500th Classic Ford Bronco Restomod As a quick recap, the Gen III Coyote debuted in 2018, bringing significant advancements to Ford’s modular engine lineup. It eventually became the go-to choice for Velocity Restorations, powering all Ford-branded restomods like the early Ford Bronco, classic Ford Mustang, and vintage Ford F-Series. However, Ford’s introduction of the Gen IV Coyote for the sixth-generation Mustang in 2024 represented a significant leap forward in technology and performance. The Gen IV engine features dual throttle bodies, increasing its base output to 480 horsepower. While this configuration enhances performance, it also complicates engine swaps due to the need for dual airboxes as well as a “locked” powertrain control module (PCM). Recognizing these challenges, Ford Performance developed the Gen 4X crate engine specifically for custom builders. Gen 4X 5.0L Coyote V8 Crate Engine| Credit: Ford PerformanceGen 4 5.0L Coyote V8 Crate Engine | Credit: Ford PerformanceThe Gen 4X addresses the hurdles presented by the Gen IV’s design by eliminating the dual air boxes and offering a tunable PCM, allowing for easier integration into restomods and custom builds. The engine’s use of the intake manifold and tunable PCM from the Gen III Coyote further simplifies the process for builders. The result is an engine that maintains the same impressive output of 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque while offering enhanced durability and reliability. While carrying over tuner-friendly aspects from the Gen III, the Gen 4X features several technical refinements developed for the Gen IV. These refinements include spray-in cylinder liners, which contribute to improved durability and reduced weight, as well as a revised cam design delivering increased valve lift and duration. One important feature to note is that the Gen 4X uses a revised driver’s side header pattern from the larger 5.2L Coyote V8. Ultimately, the Gen 4X crate engine exemplifies Ford Performance’s dedication to serving both enthusiasts and the aftermarket community. By offering an engine tailored to the unique demands of custom builds, Ford solidifies its reputation as a leader in high-performance innovation. The Gen 4X stands not only as a testament to the legacy of the 5.0L Coyote V8 but also as a symbol of Ford’s ongoing commitment to empowering enthusiasts to bring their automotive dreams to life. Source: Ford Muscle Share this article