The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems: A Deep Dive into Automotive Innovation
The automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by electrification, powertrain innovation, and the constant pursuit of efficiency and performance. At the forefront of this evolution stands the Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards, a prestigious recognition that celebrates the most advanced and compelling powertrains on the market. For 2025, the competition has reached unprecedented levels of sophistication, showcasing a diverse range of technologies from traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) to cutting-edge battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
This year’s nominees represent the industry’s response to evolving consumer demands, regulatory pressures, and technological breakthroughs. With the judging process concluding in mid-September and the official winners to be announced in October, the anticipation is palpable. The awards ceremony in Dearborn, Michigan, will once again bring together industry leaders, engineers, and automotive enthusiasts to honor the propulsion systems that are defining the future of mobility.
The Evolution of the Wards 10 Best List
The Wards 10 Best Engines award, now in its 31st year, has evolved significantly since its inception. Originally focused solely on gasoline and diesel engines, the awards have expanded to encompass the full spectrum of propulsion technologies. This evolution reflects the industry’s transition towards electrification, where BEVs, PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), and HEVs (hybrid electric vehicles) are becoming increasingly mainstream.
This year’s list includes 33 nominees, a testament to the breadth of innovation in the automotive sector. The judging criteria, which emphasize performance, efficiency, refinement, NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), and technological advancement, ensure that only the best propulsion systems receive this coveted recognition.
The 2025 Contenders: A Detailed Analysis
The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems nominees represent a remarkable cross-section of automotive engineering. Let’s delve into some of the most compelling contenders and what makes them stand out in this competitive field.
The Electrification Wave: BEVs Take Center Stage
Battery electric vehicles continue to dominate the nomination list, accounting for more than half of the entries. This trend underscores the industry’s commitment to electrification and the growing consumer acceptance of EVs.
Cadillac Escalade IQ BEV: Representing the pinnacle of luxury EV performance, the Escalade IQ combines the iconic Escalade presence with next-generation electric technology. Its all-electric architecture promises instant torque, whisper-quiet operation, and advanced driver-assistance systems, setting a new benchmark for luxury SUVs.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N BEV (2024 returning winner): This high-performance EV has redefined what’s possible with electric powertrains. The Ioniq 5 N delivers exhilarating acceleration, advanced torque vectoring, and a suite of features that make it a joy to drive on both road and track. Its success in 2024 speaks volumes about its engineering excellence.
Kia EV9 GT Line BEV (2024 returning winner): The EV9 has proven that electric vehicles can deliver spacious, family-friendly packaging without compromising on performance or style. The GT Line variant further enhances its sporty credentials, making it a compelling option for those seeking a premium electric SUV.
Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV: A leader in the electric adventure vehicle segment, the R1T continues to impress with its quad-motor setup, offering unparalleled traction and performance in diverse terrains. Its innovative Gear Tunnel and sustainable materials further enhance its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Volvo EX90 BEV: The EX90 represents Volvo’s vision for the future of safe, sustainable luxury. With its advanced sensor suite, autonomous driving capabilities, and serene cabin experience, it sets a new standard for premium electric vehicles.
The PHEV Revolution: Bridging the Gap
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles continue to play a crucial role in the transition to electrification, offering the best of both worlds: electric power for daily commutes and gasoline power for longer journeys.
BMW M5 4.4L twin-turbo V-8 PHEV: This high-performance PHEV combines the raw power of a twin-turbo V-8 with electric assistance for an exhilarating driving experience. The M5 demonstrates that PHEVs can deliver thrilling performance without sacrificing efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 2.0L turbo I-4 PHEV: The GLC 350e represents the epitome of luxury PHEV technology. Its smooth operation, refined cabin, and impressive electric range make it a compelling choice for discerning buyers seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.
Mercedes-AMG E53 3.0L turbo I-6 PHEV: This AMG performance model showcases how electrification can enhance driving dynamics. The E53’s hybrid system delivers instant torque and improved responsiveness, creating a truly exhilarating driving experience.
The HEV Renaissance: Efficiency Meets Performance
Hybrid electric vehicles continue to be a dominant force in the market, offering proven fuel efficiency and reliability. This year’s nominees demonstrate that HEVs are far from obsolete, with many manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Honda Civic Hybrid 2.0L I-4 HEV (2024 returning winner): The Civic Hybrid continues to be a benchmark for compact hybrid performance. Its efficient powertrain, refined ride, and practical design make it a perennial favorite.
Toyota GR Corolla 1.6L turbo I-3 (2024 returning winner): This rally-inspired hot hatch proves that hybrids can be thrilling to drive. The GR Corolla combines a potent turbo-three engine with electric assistance for a unique and exhilarating experience.
Toyota 4Runner 2.4L turbo 4-cyl. HEV: The legendary 4Runner gets an electrified update with the new HEV powertrain. This combination promises to deliver the rugged capability 4Runner buyers expect with improved fuel efficiency for daily driving.
The Evolution of the Internal Combustion Engine
While electrification is on the rise, traditional ICE powertrains continue to evolve, with manufacturers extracting more power and efficiency from every drop of fuel.
Acura ADX 1.5L turbo 4-cyl.: This compact luxury SUV features a potent 1.5L turbo engine that delivers impressive performance and efficiency, showcasing Honda’s expertise in small-displacement turbocharging.
Dodge Charger Daytona BEV: While a BEV, the Charger Daytona pays homage to its ICE heritage with a “fratzonic” sound generator and simulated V-8 sounds, demonstrating that electrification doesn’t mean sacrificing the emotional connection with the driving experience.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 5.5L twin-turbo V-8: This mid-engine supercar represents the pinnacle of Corvette engineering, combining a high-revving twin-turbo V-8 with advanced aerodynamics for track-dominating performance.
The Judging Process: Rigor and Expertise
The Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems selection process is renowned for its rigor and objectivity. The judging panel, composed of WardsAuto editors and industry veterans, spends months evaluating the nominated powertrains under real-world driving conditions.
This year’s judges include:
Christie Schweinsberg: WardsAuto Lead Editor, bringing extensive experience in automotive journalism and powertrain analysis.
Jim Irwin: WardsAuto Editor, with a deep understanding of automotive technology and market trends.
Bob Gritzinger: Contributing Editor, known for his keen insights into vehicle dynamics and performance.
Gary Vasilash: Contributing Editor, with expertise in powertrain engineering and manufacturing.
Drew Winter: Contributing Editor, a veteran automotive journalist with decades of experience covering powertrain innovations.
Dave Zoia: Contributing Editor, with a focus on automotive technology and market analysis.
The judges evaluate each powertrain on a comprehensive set of criteria, including:
Performance: Acceleration, responsiveness, and power delivery.
Efficiency: Fuel economy or electric range and energy consumption.
NVH: Noise, vibration, and harshness levels for a refined driving experience.
Technological Innovation: Advanced engineering solutions and forward-thinking design.
Refinement: Smoothness, responsiveness, and overall driving quality.
This multi-faceted evaluation ensures that the Wards 10 Best list recognizes powertrains that excel in both performance and refinement, delivering an exceptional driving experience for consumers.
The Impact of the Awards on the Industry
The Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards have a significant impact on the automotive industry. Recognition from WardsAuto serves as a powerful marketing tool for winning manufacturers, highlighting their engineering excellence and innovation. Furthermore, the awards help shape consumer perceptions of different powertrain technologies, influencing purchasing decisions and driving industry trends.
For engineers and designers, the awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, inspiring them to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The competition among nominees motivates manufacturers to invest in research and development, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Automotive Propulsion
The 2025 Wards 10 Best list provides a glimpse into the future of automotive propulsion. The continued dominance of BEVs signals the industry’s irreversible shift towards electrification. However, the success of PHEVs and advanced HEVs demonstrates that internal combustion engines will continue to play a significant role for years to come, particularly in markets where charging infrastructure is still developing.
The most exciting trend to emerge from this year’s nominations is the innovation happening across all powertrain types. Manufacturers are finding creative ways to enhance
