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(The original article is in Vietnamese. I will rewrite it in English, the official language of the US, as requested.)
2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems Nominees: The Electric Evolution Accelerates
The automotive landscape in 2025 is undergoing a seismic shift, and the nominees for the prestigious Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award perfectly encapsulate this electrifying transformation. As gasoline engines mature and hybrid systems reach new pinnacles of efficiency, the steady march of electrification—powered by both battery and fuel cell technologies—is reshaping what we expect from our vehicles. This year’s list, culled from a highly competitive pool of contenders, showcases a compelling blend of refinement, power, and innovation, signaling a new era where the internal combustion engine (ICE) is no longer the sole arbiter of performance.
The Wards 10 Best list, now in its 30th year, has long served as the industry’s barometer for powertrain excellence. Judges evaluate vehicles over a rigorous six-week period, assessing not only horsepower and torque but also smoothness, NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), fuel economy, and the overall driving experience. In 2025, that evaluation matrix has expanded to fully embrace the electric revolution. While traditional gasoline powerplants still vie for a spot, the growing prominence of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) reflects a global industry recalibrating itself for a zero-emission future.
This year’s selection process highlights a critical trend: the democratization of advanced propulsion. Once the exclusive domain of luxury marques, sophisticated electric architectures and high-efficiency turbocharging are now trickling down to mainstream vehicles. From the rugged capability of the Jeep Wagoneer S to the everyday practicality of the Honda Civic Hybrid, manufacturers are proving that sustainable motoring does not require a compromise on performance or refinement.
The judges responsible for this critical assessment bring a wealth of experience to the table. WardsAuto Lead Editor Christie Schweinsberg, WardsAuto Editor Jim Irwin, and WardsAuto Contributing Editors Bob Gritzinger, Gary Vasilash, Drew Winter, and Dave Zoia—a panel of seasoned automotive journalists—will put these nominees through their paces. Their collective expertise, honed over decades of covering the industry, ensures that only the most deserving powertrains will claim a coveted spot on the final list. The winners are scheduled to be announced in mid-September, followed by an official awards ceremony on October 22 in Dearborn, Michigan, a fitting tribute to the heart of the American automotive industry.
The Electric Juggernaut: BEVs Dominate the Contender List
Perhaps the most striking feature of the 2025 Wards 10 Best nominee list is the sheer volume of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). These all-electric contenders are no longer niche products; they represent the cutting edge of automotive engineering and are rapidly becoming mainstream alternatives for consumers seeking to ditch the pump. The judges have selected a diverse range of BEVs, spanning various price points and market segments, underscoring the technology’s growing maturity and appeal.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ, a fully electric reimagining of the iconic American luxury SUV, stands as a testament to this evolution. While the Escalade has long been synonymous with V8 power and brute force, the IQ version trades gasoline for gallons of silent, instantaneous torque. This platform, based on GM’s Ultium architecture, promises a driving experience that is both opulent and exhilarating. The departure from traditional ICE power in such a high-profile vehicle signals that electrification is no longer a compromise for luxury; it is the new benchmark for it.
Similarly, the Dodge Charger Daytona BEV represents a bold statement from an automaker steeped in the heritage of muscle cars. By electrifying the Charger nameplate, Dodge is attempting to translate the visceral thrill of American performance into a new idiom. The Daytona BEV is expected to deliver head-snapping acceleration and a soundtrack that, while different from its V8 predecessors, aims to capture the same emotional resonance. This nomination highlights a crucial trend: the need for legacy brands to adapt their core identities to the electric era, ensuring that the passion for performance endures.
In the luxury segment, the Lucid Gravity continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with electric propulsion. Lucid Motors, a relative newcomer, has established itself as a leader in range and efficiency, and the Gravity promises to deliver these attributes in a practical, family-friendly package. With its advanced battery technology and aerodynamic design, the Gravity demonstrates that electric vehicles can offer both blistering speed and the long-distance capability required for everyday life.
The Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV further illustrates the versatility of electric powertrains. Rivian’s electric pickup truck has garnered acclaim for its innovative design, off-road prowess, and adventurous spirit. The Quad Max version, with four independent motors, offers unprecedented control and torque vectoring, allowing the R1T to conquer terrain that would challenge even the most capable ICE trucks. This nomination underscores the fact that electrification is not just about urban commuting; it is about reimagining the very essence of vehicle capability.
Beyond these headline-grabbing models, the list includes several other notable BEV contenders that reflect the breadth of this technological shift. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, a performance-oriented version of Hyundai’s popular electric crossover, continues to impress with its driver-focused dynamics and innovative features. The Kia EV9 GT Line demonstrates that electric propulsion can be successfully applied to larger, three-row utility vehicles, offering a compelling blend of space, comfort, and zero-emission motoring. Even established players like Nissan have entered the fray with the Leaf BEV, a pioneer in the mass-market EV space, now updated with the latest in battery technology and efficiency.
The Hybrid Evolution: Efficiency Meets Performance
While BEVs command attention, the continued refinement of hybrid technology is equally significant. The 2025 nominees showcase a mature hybrid landscape where engineers have mastered the art of blending gasoline and electric power for optimal results. These vehicles offer the convenience of traditional refueling with the fuel efficiency benefits of electrification, making them ideal for consumers who may not yet be ready for a full transition to electric power.
The BMW M5 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) exemplifies the high-performance end of the hybrid spectrum. This M-badged powerhouse combines a twin-turbo V8 engine with electric motors to deliver staggering performance figures. The M5 demonstrates that PHEVs can offer the best of both worlds: V8 muscle when needed, and all-electric or hybrid efficiency for everyday driving. This nomination signals that even the most performance-oriented segments are embracing electrification, albeit with a focus on maintaining driving engagement and excitement.
On the more mainstream side, the Honda Civic Hybrid continues to be a benchmark for efficiency and refinement in the compact car segment. Honda has long been a leader in hybrid technology, and the Civic Hybrid represents the culmination of decades of refinement. Its smooth power delivery, excellent fuel economy, and practical design make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious and environmentally aware consumers alike. This nomination highlights the importance of efficiency in the modern automotive market, where fuel costs and environmental concerns are top priorities for many buyers.
The Mazda CX-50 2.0L 4-cyl. HEV further underscores the trend of electrification in everyday vehicles. Mazda, known for its focus on driving dynamics and premium interiors, has successfully integrated hybrid technology into its popular CX-50 crossover. This nomination demonstrates that hybrid systems can be successfully applied to vehicles that prioritize driver engagement and style, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs.
Even rugged, utility-focused brands are embracing hybrid technology. The Toyota 4Runner 2.4L turbo 4-cyl. HEV represents a significant update for one of the most iconic off-road vehicles on the market. The addition of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with a hybrid system offers a compelling blend of power, torque, and fuel efficiency. This nomination highlights the fact that electrification is not just about urban commuting; it is about enhancing the capabilities of traditional workhorse vehicles while reducing their environmental impact.
Gasoline Power Refined: The Best of the ICE Era
Despite the rise of electric propulsion, gasoline engines continue to evolve, offering impressive levels of refinement and efficiency. The nominees in this category showcase the pinnacle of internal combustion engineering, demonstrating that the traditional ICE is far from obsolete. These powertrains continue to provide the power, range, and convenience that many consumers still demand.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 5.5L twin-turbo V-8 represents the apex of American ICE performance. With its mid-mounted twin-turbo V8 engine, the ZR1 promises breathtaking speed and track-ready capabilities. This nomination underscores the fact that even in an electric future, there will likely be a place for high-performance gasoline engines that deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The ZR1 is a testament to the engineering prowess of Chevrolet, showcasing the potential of ICE technology when pushed to its limits.
In the luxury realm, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 2.0L turbo I-4 PHEV exemplifies the sophisticated integration of turbocharging and electrification. Mercedes-Benz has long been a leader in powertrain refinement, and this PHEV model combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with electric assistance to deliver a smooth, powerful, and efficient driving experience. This nomination highlights the importance of blending ICE power with electric augmentation to achieve optimal performance and efficiency in premium vehicles.
The Nissan Armada NISMO’s 3.5L turbo V-6 represents the continued refinement of the V-6 engine in larger SUV applications. Nissan’s turbo V-6 offers
