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Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems: 2025 Finalists and the Future of Automotive Power
By [Your Name], Automotive Industry Analyst
The automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by electrification, hybridization, and the relentless pursuit of efficiency and performance. Nowhere is this transformation more evident than in the annual Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards. For 2025, the competition has reached an unprecedented level of sophistication, showcasing a diverse range of powertrain technologies that cater to every driving need and preference. This year’s list of nominees—which will culminate in the announcement of the 10 winners in mid-September and an awards ceremony in Dearborn, Michigan, on October 22—represents the vanguard of automotive engineering.
As an industry veteran with a decade of experience analyzing powertrain trends, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution from traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) to the complex, multi-modal systems that define the modern vehicle. The 2025 Wards 10 Best list is a testament to this evolution, featuring a compelling mix of established technologies refined to near perfection and groundbreaking innovations that are reshaping our expectations of what a car can do.
The Judges: A Panel of Renowned Experts
Behind the Wards 10 Best selection process is a panel of judges whose collective expertise spans the breadth of the automotive industry. This year’s judging panel includes WardsAuto Lead Editor Christie Schweinsberg, WardsAuto Editor Jim Irwin, and WardsAuto Contributing Editors Bob Gritzinger, Gary Vasilash, Drew Winter, and Dave Zoia. These seasoned journalists and analysts bring decades of experience in evaluating vehicle performance, technology, and market trends, ensuring that the awards maintain their credibility and relevance in a rapidly changing industry.
The Contenders: A Deep Dive into the Nominees
The 2025 Wards 10 Best list features a remarkable array of 30 nominees, each representing a pinnacle of engineering achievement. Let’s explore some of the most compelling entries and the trends they represent.
The Rise of the Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
The humble four-cylinder engine continues to dominate the automotive landscape, but it has been transformed through the magic of turbocharging. The Acura ADX 1.5L turbo 4-cyl. exemplifies this trend, offering a potent combination of power and efficiency in a compact package. This engine, which likely shares DNA with Honda’s acclaimed turbo-four offerings, is a perfect illustration of how downsizing doesn’t mean compromising on performance.
Similarly, the Audi Q5 2.0L turbo 4-cyl. showcases the Vorsprung durch Technik (progress through technology) philosophy that Audi is known for. In a segment where refinement and responsiveness are paramount, this engine delivers a compelling blend of power and efficiency, proving that the four-cylinder can hold its own against larger, more traditional powertrains.
The BMW X3 2.0L turbo I-4 w/ mild hybrid system represents another evolution of the turbocharged four-cylinder. The integration of a mild-hybrid system not only enhances fuel efficiency but also provides a welcome boost in torque, particularly at low engine speeds. This approach is becoming increasingly common in the luxury segment, where manufacturers are seeking to balance performance with environmental responsibility.
Perhaps one of the most exciting entries in this category is the Buick Enclave 2.5L turbo 4-cyl. Buick has made a concerted effort in recent years to inject more performance and sophistication into its lineup, and this engine is a testament to that strategy. Moving away from the larger V6 engines that once defined the brand, Buick is demonstrating that a well-executed turbocharged four-cylinder can deliver the power and refinement expected of a premium SUV.
The Electric Revolution: BEVs Take Center Stage
The most significant trend in this year’s Wards 10 Best list is the sheer number of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). In 2025, the electric revolution is in full swing, with manufacturers bringing a diverse range of all-electric models to market.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ BEV represents the electrification of a true automotive icon. The Escalade has long been a symbol of American luxury and power, and its electric iteration promises to deliver that same sense of presence and performance, but with the added benefits of instant torque and zero tailpipe emissions. This is a critical entry, as it signals that even the most traditional luxury segments are not immune to the electric transformation.
The Dodge Charger Daytona BEV is another landmark vehicle, marking the electric dawn of a legendary muscle car nameplate. While the return of the Hemi V8 is a topic of passionate debate among enthusiasts, the Charger Daytona BEV represents Dodge’s commitment to the future of performance. With its emphasis on exhilarating acceleration and engaging driving dynamics, this electric muscle car aims to capture the spirit of its predecessors while embracing new technologies.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N BEV (2024 returning winner) and Hyundai Ioniq 9 BEV showcase Hyundai’s leadership in the electric space. The Ioniq 5 N, in particular, has been lauded for its track-ready performance and driver engagement, proving that electric vehicles can be just as fun to drive as their gasoline counterparts. The larger Ioniq 9, on the other hand, offers three-row electric utility, catering to the growing demand for family-friendly EVs.
The Kia EV9 GT Line BEV (2024 returning winner) continues Kia’s impressive streak in the electric vehicle market. The EV9 has been widely praised for its bold design, spacious interior, and advanced technology, making it a compelling option for families seeking an electric SUV.
The Lexus LX 700h 3.4L turbo V-6 HEV represents a different approach, combining a turbocharged V6 engine with a hybrid system. This strategy allows Lexus to deliver the robust towing capability and off-road prowess expected of the LX, while still achieving respectable fuel efficiency.
The Lucid Gravity BEV enters the fray as a contender from a relative newcomer that has quickly made a name for itself in the luxury EV segment. Lucid’s focus on range, performance, and premium interiors positions the Gravity as a formidable competitor to established luxury brands.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 2.0L turbo I-4 PHEV and Mercedes-AMG E53 3.0L turbo I-6 PHEV represent the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) segment. These vehicles offer the best of both worlds, combining the efficiency of electric propulsion for shorter commutes with the range and flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. The AMG E53, in particular, demonstrates that PHEV technology can deliver exhilarating performance, with the electric motor providing instant torque to complement the turbocharged inline-six.
The Nissan Armada NISMO 3.5L turbo V-6 represents the continued evolution of Nissan’s V6 engine technology. While many automakers are downsizing, Nissan is demonstrating that the V6 can still deliver impressive power and torque, particularly in performance-oriented applications.
The Nissan Leaf BEV represents the long-standing commitment of Nissan to electric mobility. As one of the pioneers of the mass-market EV, the Leaf continues to evolve, offering a practical and affordable electric transportation solution for a wide range of consumers.
The Polestar 4 BEV enters the competition as a stylish and performance-oriented electric coupe-SUV. Polestar has quickly established itself as a brand that prioritizes design and driving dynamics, and the Polestar 4 is no exception.
The Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV continues to push the boundaries of electric adventure vehicles. With four electric motors providing precise torque vectoring and exceptional off-road capability, the R1T Quad Max represents the pinnacle of electric overland technology.
The Toyota GR Corolla 1.6L turbo I-3 (2024 returning winner) is a testament to the enduring appeal of the hot hatch. Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division has created a rally-bred machine that delivers thrilling performance in a compact and practical package. This returning winner demonstrates that even in the age of electrification, there is still a passionate following for high-performance internal combustion engines.
The Toyota 4Runner 2.4L turbo 4-cyl. HEV represents the electrification of a legendary off-road SUV. The 4Runner has a cult following for its ruggedness and reliability, and the addition of a hybrid system promises to deliver improved fuel efficiency without compromising its legendary capability.
The Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L turbo 4-cyl. showcases the ongoing refinement of the turbocharged four-cylinder in the compact SUV segment. Volkswagen has long been a leader in this space, and the Tiguan continues to offer a compelling blend of comfort, practicality, and efficiency.
The Volvo EX90 BEV represents Volvo’s commitment to safety and sustainability. As a flagship electric SUV, the EX90 combines advanced safety features with a luxurious and comfortable interior, embodying Volvo’s vision for the future of family transportation.
The Future of High-Performance: Mild Hybrids and Beyond
The Genesis GV80 Coupe 3.5L turbo V-6 w/ electric supercharger represents the cutting edge of powertrain technology. The use of an electric supercharger allows Genesis to deliver instant torque and eliminate turbo lag, providing a seamless and exhilarating driving experience. This technology is a prime example of how manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of internal combustion engine performance.
The Honda Civic Hybrid 2.0L I-4 HEV (202
