Ckhris

If you block the open area thats supposed to cool intercooler exhaust gas going back into the motor it will affect the performance. Will you nitice it? Not likely, on the older ecoboost ive read that ford will void motor warranty if the air inlet is blocked. Performance is important to me so if the new motor requires this to be open then ill leave it open.

On the older ecoboost this is why they moved the license plate to the side.

Bravo3eco

No issues with blocking the intercooler. Ford currently does this on the 15/16 to help the intercooler be less effective and thus have less chance to build condensate. This doesn't change on the new model. Blocking the front is not an issue. It will help protect against condensate, reduce plug change intervals, and you may not need to drill the weep hole in the intercooler.

FWIW, I truly believe that this introduction will be just like 2010. Let a year or two gi buy and a second engine choice will be available. Something with two more cylinders will definitely appeal to many. Hopefully the 6 cylinder performs ok, but I don't trust it.

Chris's FX4

No. The relocation kit is necessary with a winch because there is no room for one with the stock intercooler.