My company supplied parts to Ford
I am a retired fuel & emissions system engineer
I worked with several of the emission & powertrain engineers
The engineers I know at FORD tell me the engines are identical except for ECU programming in the Expedition & NAVI
The GT engine uses the same short block with different cams, turbo's & higher flow injectors. Also a much higher flow exhaust system & Air intake system
So I guess I am challenging your assessment
I know for sure these engines are capable of producing much more power with premium fuel & new software as I have done with my last 4 eco boost 3.5L engines
Drove an 2011 F 150 over 100k miles with recalibration with absolutely no durability issues