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Title: Wards 10 Best Engines: Navigating the 2025 Powertrain Landscape
The automotive industry is in the throes of a seismic shift, a transition so profound it redefines what it means to power a vehicle. Gone are the days when engine displacement and horsepower figures alone dictated performance. Today, the conversation has evolved to encompass electrification, efficiency, and the seamless integration of multiple energy sources. This transformation is nowhere more evident than in the prestigious Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards, a benchmark for powertrain excellence that has, for decades, tracked the pulse of automotive innovation.
As we approach the 2025 awards, the nominations themselves paint a vivid picture of this new era. The list is a fascinating tapestry of traditional internal combustion engines (ICE), sophisticated hybrid systems, and an increasing number of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This diversity reflects the reality of the market: manufacturers are hedging their bets, offering a comprehensive portfolio of solutions to meet varied consumer needs and regulatory demands. For industry veterans, and indeed for anyone following the automotive sector, this period is a masterclass in technological adaptation.
This year’s Wards 10 Best Engines selection process brings together a panel of judges whose collective experience spans the spectrum of automotive journalism. Led by WardsAuto Lead Editor Christie Schweinsberg, the judging panel includes WardsAuto Editor Jim Irwin and a distinguished group of Contributing Editors: Bob Gritzinger, Gary Vasilash, Drew Winter, and Dave Zoia. Their task is unenviable yet crucial: to evaluate a field of nominees that represents the cutting edge of powertrain technology. They will spend weeks putting these systems through their paces, assessing everything from raw performance and refinement to efficiency and the seamless integration of electric components. The winners, to be announced in mid-September, will be honored at an awards ceremony in Dearborn, MI, on October 22, an event that serves as a bellwether for the industry’s trajectory.
The Shifting Paradigm: Why “Best” Means More Than Horsepower
The Wards 10 Best Engines awards have evolved significantly since their inception. Initially, the focus was squarely on the internal combustion engine—the roar of a V8, the smoothness of a V6, the efficiency of a well-tuned four-cylinder. However, as the automotive landscape has transformed, so too have the criteria for what constitutes a “best” engine. The rise of hybrid technology and the advent of pure battery electric vehicles have necessitated a broader definition of powertrain excellence.
This evolution reflects the complex realities facing automakers in 2025. On one hand, there is the enduring demand for performance and the established infrastructure that supports traditional ICE vehicles. On the other, there is the inexorable march of electrification, driven by tightening emissions regulations, corporate sustainability goals, and growing consumer interest in electric cars. The Wards judges must now evaluate systems that bridge these two worlds—plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) that offer the best of both, and BEVs that challenge the very definition of a “propulsion system.”
For industry insiders, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Manufacturers must navigate the delicate balance of developing new ICE technologies while simultaneously investing heavily in electric powertrains. The cost of this transition is substantial, and the path forward is far from certain. Yet, it is precisely this dynamic environment that makes the Wards 10 Best Engines awards so compelling. They provide a snapshot of the industry at a critical juncture, highlighting the innovations that are shaping the future of mobility.
A Deep Dive into the 2025 Nominees: The Full Spectrum of Innovation
The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems nominations offer a comprehensive overview of the current state of automotive technology. Let us take a closer look at some of the standout entries and what they represent.
One of the most striking trends is the continued refinement of the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While once considered a compromise, the modern turbo-four has emerged as a highly capable and efficient powerplant. Entries like the Acura ADX 1.5L turbo 4-cyl. and the Audi Q5 2.0L turbo 4-cyl. demonstrate the maturity of this technology. These engines deliver impressive power and torque, rivaling larger displacement naturally aspirated engines while offering superior fuel economy. The integration of mild hybrid systems, as seen in the BMW X3 2.0L turbo I-4, further enhances their efficiency, providing subtle but meaningful improvements in fuel consumption and emissions.
The trend toward downsized and turbocharged engines is not limited to mainstream brands. Premium manufacturers are also embracing this approach. The Genesis GV80 Coupe 3.5L turbo V-6 w/ electric supercharger represents a fascinating innovation in this space. The use of an electric supercharger addresses the traditional Achilles’ heel of turbocharged engines—turbo lag. By providing immediate boost at low RPMs, the electric supercharger ensures a seamless and responsive power delivery that belies the engine’s size. This type of technology is indicative of the sophisticated engineering solutions being developed to optimize performance in the era of downsizing.
However, the Wards list is not solely populated by four-cylinder engines. There are notable entries that showcase the continued relevance of larger and more powerful configurations. The BMW M5 4.4L twin-turbo V-8 PHEV is a prime example of a plug-in hybrid that prioritizes performance. This vehicle combines the raw power of a twin-turbo V8 with the electric torque of a hybrid system, offering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and relatively efficient. The PHEV architecture allows for significant electric-only driving range, making it a compelling option for those who want the best of both worlds.
For those who prefer the muscularity of a V8, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 5.5L twin-turbo V-8 is a standout entry. While the Corvette has long been associated with naturally aspirated V8s, the ZR1’s twin-turbo setup represents a bold engineering choice. This engine promises to deliver a level of performance that will push the boundaries of what is possible in a production sports car. The inclusion of such a high-performance ICE vehicle on the Wards list underscores the fact that even in the age of electrification, there is still a place for the internal combustion engine, particularly in the realm of high-performance vehicles.
The rise of mild hybrid systems is a recurring theme throughout the 2025 nominations. Vehicles like the Honda Civic Hybrid 2.0L I-4 HEV and the Mazda CX-50 2.0L 4-cyl. HEV demonstrate the increasing sophistication of hybrid technology. These systems are no longer simply tacked onto existing ICE platforms; they are integral to the overall vehicle architecture, providing seamless integration and measurable benefits in fuel economy and emissions. The Civic Hybrid, in particular, represents a compelling option for mainstream consumers seeking an efficient and practical daily driver.
The Electric Revolution: BEVs Take Center Stage
Perhaps the most significant trend evident in the 2025 Wards list is the ascendance of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The sheer number of BEV nominees is remarkable, reflecting the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle market. From luxury SUVs to performance cars, BEVs are making their presence felt across all segments of the automotive industry.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ BEV represents a bold statement from General Motors. The Escalade has long been an icon of American automotive excess, and its all-electric iteration promises to deliver a similar level of luxury and presence, albeit with a completely different powertrain. The “IQ” designation signifies GM’s commitment to a fully electric future, and this vehicle is positioned to be a flagship for the brand’s electric ambitions.
Similarly, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N BEV (2024 returning winner) and the Hyundai Ioniq 9 BEV highlight Hyundai’s aggressive push into the electric market. The Ioniq 5 N has already garnered critical acclaim for its performance and handling, proving that electric vehicles can be genuinely fun to drive. The Ioniq 9, a larger SUV, offers a compelling option for families seeking an electric vehicle with ample space and range.
The Kia EV9 GT Line BEV (2024 returning winner) further underscores the success of Korean automakers in the EV space. Kia has emerged as a leader in electric vehicle technology, offering a range of compelling products that combine range, performance, and value. The EV9 GT Line, with its sporty styling and luxurious interior, is a testament to this expertise.
The Lucid Gravity BEV represents a new entrant into the premium EV market. Lucid has positioned itself as a direct competitor to Tesla and other luxury EV brands, focusing on performance, range, and cutting-edge technology. The Gravity is poised to challenge established players with its impressive specifications and sophisticated design.
The inclusion of vehicles like the Polestar 4 BEV, Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV, and Volvo EX90 BEV demonstrates the breadth of the electric vehicle market. Polestar, a Volvo spin-off, is focused on performance-oriented EVs, while Rivian has carved out a niche in the adventure EV segment. Volvo’s EX90 represents a commitment to safety and sustainability in the electric era.
Even established players like Nissan are embracing the electric future. The Nissan Leaf BEV, a long-time player in
