Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems 2025: The Definitive Breakdown of Automotive Innovation
The automotive industry is undergoing a seismic shift, moving away from the internal combustion engine (ICE) towards electrification and alternative propulsion systems. At the forefront of this revolution are vehicles that redefine what’s possible under the hood, pushing the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. WardsAuto, a trusted authority in the automotive sector, has once again recognized the best in the business with its prestigious 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems awards for 2025.
This year’s list, announced in mid-September and honored during an Oct. 22 award ceremony in Dearborn, MI, showcases a remarkable blend of traditional ICE power, hybrid technology, and pure electric innovation. The judges, including WardsAuto Lead Editor Christie Schweinsberg, Editor Jim Irwin, and Contributing Editors Bob Gritzinger, Gary Vasilash, Drew Winter, and Dave Zoia, have meticulously evaluated a diverse field of contenders to identify the propulsion systems that truly stand out in the 2025 model year.
The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award recognizes the most advanced, efficient, and impressive propulsion systems available in the market. This prestigious recognition highlights the ongoing evolution of automotive engineering, where traditional ICE powerplants are being enhanced with electrification, and electric vehicles are setting new benchmarks for performance and range. The judges evaluate nominees based on several criteria, including power output, efficiency, noise, vibration, harshness (NVH), drivability, and overall innovation.
The Contenders: A Glimpse into the Future of Automotive Propulsion
The 2025 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems nominees represent a cross-section of the automotive industry’s best and brightest. From established automakers to emerging EV players, the competition is fierce, with each contender bringing something unique to the table.
Internal Combustion Engines with a Twist
While electrification is on the rise, traditional ICEs are far from obsolete. Many manufacturers are enhancing their gasoline engines with turbocharging and mild-hybrid systems to improve efficiency and performance.
Audi Q5 2.0L turbo 4-cyl.: The venerable Audi Q5 continues to impress with its refined 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering a perfect balance of power and efficiency for the compact luxury SUV segment.
BMW M5 4.4L twin-turbo V-8 PHEV: BMW pushes the boundaries of performance with the M5’s plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a potent twin-turbo V-8 with electric assistance for exhilarating acceleration and surprising efficiency.
BMW X3 2.0L turbo I-4 w/ mild hybrid system: The X3’s mild-hybrid system enhances the responsiveness of its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience for everyday commutes.
Buick Enclave 2.5L turbo 4-cyl.: Buick’s latest Enclave features a new 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers robust power while maintaining respectable fuel economy, showcasing the brand’s commitment to modern propulsion technology.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 5.5L twin-turbo V-8: A true engineering marvel, the Corvette ZR1’s twin-turbo V-8 sets a new benchmark for performance, combining high horsepower with the sophisticated sound of a flat-plane crank. This engine is a testament to GM’s expertise in high-performance ICE technology, offering an exhilarating driving experience that rivals its electrified counterparts.
Genesis GV80 Coupe 3.5L turbo V-6 w/ electric supercharger: Genesis introduces an innovative electric supercharger to its 3.5L V-6, virtually eliminating turbo lag and providing instant torque for a seamless and powerful acceleration experience.
Lexus LX 700h 3.4L turbo V-6 HEV: The flagship Lexus LX 700h combines a powerful turbocharged V-6 with hybrid technology, delivering the luxury and capability expected of the brand while achieving impressive efficiency for its class.
Mazda CX-50 2.0L 4-cyl. HEV: Mazda’s commitment to driving dynamics shines through in the CX-50’s hybrid powertrain, which offers a responsive and engaging experience while prioritizing fuel efficiency for the environmentally conscious driver.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 2.0L turbo I-4 PHEV: The GLC 350e exemplifies Mercedes-Benz’s expertise in plug-in hybrid technology, offering a refined and efficient powertrain that balances electric-only driving with the flexibility of a gasoline engine.
Mercedes-AMG E53 3.0L turbo I-6 PHEV: AMG pushes the envelope with its electrified E53, combining a turbocharged inline-six with a plug-in hybrid system to deliver electrifying performance with improved efficiency.
Nissan Armada NISMO 3.5L turbo V-6: The NISMO variant of the Armada promises enhanced performance with its turbocharged V-6, delivering the power and capability expected of Nissan’s performance division while maintaining the practicality of a full-size SUV.
Ram RHO 3.0L turbo I-6 high output (2024 returning winner): The Ram RHO’s high-output turbo inline-six continues to impress with its blend of power and efficiency, making it a favorite for truck enthusiasts who demand both capability and refinement.
Subaru Forester 2.5L Boxer 4-cyl. HEV: Subaru’s Boxer engine receives the hybrid treatment in the Forester, offering a unique combination of Boxer engine characteristics with hybrid efficiency for a distinctive and capable SUV experience.
Toyota GR Corolla 1.6L turbo I-3 (2024 returning winner): The GR Corolla’s rally-bred turbocharged three-cylinder engine continues to earn accolades for its incredible performance and unique character, proving that small engines can deliver big excitement.
Toyota 4Runner 2.4L turbo 4-cyl. HEV: The redesigned 4Runner features a new turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid system, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and off-road capability for the iconic SUV.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L turbo 4-cyl.: Volkswagen’s Tiguan offers a refined turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides a smooth and efficient driving experience for the compact SUV segment.
The Electric Revolution: BEVs Redefining Performance
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to dominate the headlines, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of range, charging speed, and performance. The 2025 Wards 10 Best list features a strong contingent of BEVs that are challenging traditional ICE vehicles in every category.
Cadillac Escalade IQ BEV: Cadillac electrifies its iconic Escalade, delivering a luxurious and spacious all-electric SUV that offers impressive performance and range for the premium segment.
Dodge Charger Daytona BEV: Dodge reimagines the Charger as an all-electric muscle car, offering exhilarating acceleration and a modern take on the classic American muscle car experience.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N BEV (2024 returning winner): Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N continues to impress with its N-specific performance enhancements, delivering a thrilling driving experience that rivals dedicated sports cars while maintaining the practicality of an EV.
Hyundai Ioniq 9 BEV: Hyundai expands its EV lineup with the Ioniq 9, a spacious three-row electric SUV that offers impressive range and comfort for families on the go.
Kia EV9 GT Line BEV (2024 returning winner): Kia’s EV9 GT Line continues to be a standout in the three-row EV segment, offering a compelling combination of space, luxury, and performance for the modern family.
Jeep Wagoneer S BEV: Jeep electrifies its Wagoneer lineup with the Wagoneer S BEV, offering a luxurious all-electric SUV that combines Jeep’s legendary off-road capability with modern EV technology.
Lucid Gravity BEV: Lucid’s Gravity BEV promises to redefine the luxury electric SUV segment with its impressive range, performance, and innovative interior design, setting a new benchmark for electric mobility.
Nissan Leaf BEV: Nissan continues to refine its pioneering Leaf BEV, offering an affordable and practical electric option for urban commuters who are looking to make the switch to electric.
Polestar 4 BEV: Polestar’s innovative Polestar 4 BEV offers a unique blend of SUV practicality and coupe-like styling, combining impressive performance with a focus on sustainability and design.
Rivian R1T Quad Max BEV: Rivian’s R1T Quad Max BEV pushes the boundaries of electric truck performance with its quad-motor setup, offering incredible towing capacity and off-road capability for adventure enthusiasts.
Volvo EX90 BEV: Volvo’s EX90 BEV represents the pinnacle of the company’s electrification efforts, offering a luxurious and family-friendly electric SUV that prioritizes safety and sustainability.
Plug-in Hybrids: The Best of Both Worlds
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) offer a compelling solution for drivers who want the flexibility of electric driving for daily commutes while retaining the range and convenience of a gasoline engine for longer trips.
BMW M5 4.4L twin-turbo V-8 PHEV: This performance-oriented PHEV combines the power
