The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems Finalists Have Been Revealed
Get ready for an in-depth look at the most innovative, efficient, and powerful automotive powertrains of the year. WardsAuto has just announced its list of nominees for the prestigious 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards, and the competition is fiercer than ever. This year’s lineup showcases the incredible advancements in automotive technology, featuring everything from ultra-efficient hybrids and plug-in hybrids to revolutionary battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that are redefining performance expectations.
Automotive journalists and industry experts are currently undergoing the rigorous testing process, evaluating each nominated system on criteria such as performance, fuel efficiency, noise and vibration characteristics, and overall refinement. The winners will be officially unveiled in mid-September and celebrated at a special awards ceremony in Dearborn, Michigan, on October 22.
For enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, this list represents the cutting edge of powertrain engineering. As the automotive landscape continues its rapid transformation, understanding these top contenders provides invaluable insight into the future of mobility. Let’s dive into the nominees and explore what makes each one stand out in this highly competitive field.
The Judges: A Panel of Industry Experts
The selection process for the Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems is overseen by a panel of highly respected automotive journalists who bring decades of combined experience to the table. This year’s judging panel includes:
Christie Schweinsberg: WardsAuto Lead Editor, bringing a wealth of knowledge in automotive trends and technology.
Jim Irwin: WardsAuto Editor, with a keen eye for performance and refinement.
Bob Gritzinger: WardsAuto Contributing Editor, known for his in-depth analysis of vehicle dynamics.
Gary Vasilash: WardsAuto Contributing Editor, offering expert commentary on engineering and innovation.
Drew Winter: WardsAuto Contributing Editor, a veteran journalist with deep industry connections.
Dave Zoia: WardsAuto Contributing Editor, specializing in powertrain technology and efficiency.
Together, this panel possesses the technical expertise and driving experience necessary to identify the truly exceptional powertrains that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in modern vehicles.
Exploring the 2025 Nominees
The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems nominees represent a diverse range of technologies and vehicle segments. Here is a comprehensive look at each contender and what makes it a strong candidate for this prestigious award.
Premium and Luxury Contenders
The premium segment features several compelling entries that demonstrate the sophistication of modern luxury vehicle engineering.
Acura ADX 1.5L Turbo 4-Cyl.
The Acura ADX represents the brand’s entry into the luxury compact SUV market, and its 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers impressive performance for its class. This powertrain focuses on efficiency without sacrificing the responsive acceleration that Acura enthusiasts expect. Its compact size allows for optimal weight distribution, contributing to the vehicle’s agile handling characteristics.
Audi Q5 2.0L Turbo 4-Cyl.
Audi’s Q5 has long been a benchmark in the luxury compact SUV segment, and its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine continues to impress. Known for its smooth power delivery and refined operation, this powertrain strikes an excellent balance between performance and fuel economy. The integration with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures confidence-inspiring traction in various driving conditions.
BMW M5 4.4L Twin-Turbo V-8 PHEV
Representing the pinnacle of performance engineering, the BMW M5’s plug-in hybrid system combines a powerful twin-turbo V-8 with electric motors to deliver exhilarating acceleration. This powertrain allows for impressive all-electric range for daily commuting, while the combined output provides supercar-level performance when needed. The M5 continues to set the standard for high-performance luxury sedans.
BMW X3 2.0L Turbo I-4 w/ Mild Hybrid System
The BMW X3’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, enhanced with a mild-hybrid system, offers a compelling blend of efficiency and driving enjoyment. This powertrain provides smooth acceleration and improved fuel economy through electric assistance during starting and low-speed maneuvers. It exemplifies BMW’s commitment to electrifying its core models without compromising the brand’s renowned driving dynamics.
Cadillac Escalade IQ BEV
The all-electric Escalade IQ pushes the boundaries of luxury electric vehicles. This all-electric powertrain delivers instant torque and smooth, silent acceleration, befitting the Escalade’s prestigious status. With its advanced battery technology and performance-oriented tuning, the Escalade IQ demonstrates that electric vehicles can offer both luxury and impressive capability.
Genesis GV80 Coupe 3.5L Turbo V-6 w/ Electric Supercharger
Genesis continues to impress with its innovative powertrain technologies, and the GV80 Coupe’s 3.5L twin-turbo V-6 with an electric supercharger is a standout example. This system provides instant torque delivery at low RPMs, eliminating turbo lag and ensuring responsive acceleration. The integration of an electric supercharger showcases Genesis’s commitment to performance engineering.
Lexus LX 700h 3.4L Turbo V-6 HEV
The Lexus LX 700h combines a powerful 3.4L turbocharged V-6 with a hybrid system to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency. This powertrain is designed to handle demanding towing and off-road conditions while providing the refined comfort expected of a Lexus. The hybrid system enhances fuel economy and reduces emissions without compromising the vehicle’s legendary capability.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 2.0L Turbo I-4 PHEV
The Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e plug-in hybrid offers a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and performance. Its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is paired with an electric motor to provide responsive acceleration and the ability to travel significant distances on electric power alone. This powertrain demonstrates Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in plug-in hybrid technology.
Mercedes-AMG E53 3.0L Turbo I-6 PHEV
The Mercedes-AMG E53 represents the perfect marriage of performance and efficiency in the luxury sedan segment. This plug-in hybrid system combines a powerful turbocharged inline-six engine with electric assist to deliver exhilarating acceleration and impressive fuel economy. The E53’s powertrain exemplifies AMG’s commitment to innovation without compromising performance.
Polestar 4 BEV
Polestar continues to push the boundaries of electric performance with the Polestar 4 BEV. This all-electric powertrain delivers instant torque and impressive acceleration, positioning the vehicle as a true driver’s car. With its minimalist design and focus on sustainability, the Polestar 4 represents the future of electric performance vehicles.
Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV
The Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV takes electric performance to a new level with its four-motor all-wheel-drive system. This setup provides exceptional control and capability in both on-road and off-road conditions. The Quad Max configuration delivers incredible acceleration and towing capacity, demonstrating the versatility of electric vehicle technology.
Volvo EX90 BEV
The Volvo EX90 BEV represents Volvo’s vision for the future of family transportation. This all-electric SUV delivers impressive range and performance, combined with Volvo’s renowned safety features. The EX90’s powertrain demonstrates that electric vehicles can be both luxurious and environmentally responsible.
Mainstream Market Contenders
The mainstream market features several compelling entries that demonstrate the ongoing evolution of efficiency and performance in everyday vehicles.
Buick Enclave 2.5L Turbo 4-Cyl.
The Buick Enclave’s 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a compelling balance of power and efficiency for the mainstream SUV segment. This powertrain provides smooth acceleration and responsive performance, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. The Enclave’s engine demonstrates GM’s commitment to delivering refined powertrains in its Buick lineup.
Dodge Charger Daytona BEV
The Dodge Charger Daytona BEV represents a bold new direction for American muscle cars. This all-electric powertrain delivers instant torque and impressive acceleration, capturing the spirit of the Charger while embracing sustainable technology. The Daytona BEV’s performance figures rival those of traditional muscle cars, proving that electric vehicles can deliver thrilling driving experiences.
Ford F-150 3.5L Turbo V-6 HEV (2024 returning winner)
The Ford F-150’s hybrid powertrain continues to be a standout in the truck segment. The 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 with hybrid assist delivers impressive towing capacity and fuel efficiency, making it a favorite among truck owners. This returning winner demonstrates the effectiveness of hybrid technology in heavy-duty applications.
Honda Civic Hybrid 2.0L I-4 HEV (2024 returning winner)
The Honda Civic Hybrid combines Honda’s renowned reliability with impressive fuel economy. This returning winner features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system that delivers smooth acceleration and excellent MPG figures. The Civic Hybrid continues to set the standard for efficiency in the compact car segment.
