Fuel efficiency has become more important in Ward’s 10 Best Engines judging, but we will never forsake engines that ooze testosterone and conjure images of smoking tires and parachutes pulled taut from a reinforced rear bumper.
The High-Output Ecotec is one of three 2.0L turbo engines making this year’s Ward’s 10 Best Engines list, and it trumps them all on the power scale, even the unit in the more-expensive BMW Z4 and 528i.
The 1.6L GDI Gamma 4-cyl. in the Hyundai Accent stands out like welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao in a room full of club fighters when it comes to power, advanced technology and efficiency.
Despite thrashing by editors during a 750-mile evaluation, the Mazda3’s DI 2.0L gleefully responds with fuel-economy numbers that top 34 mpg.
The Infiniti M35h’s hybrid powertrain produces 360 hp, but most of that comes from an engine that needs little introduction for long-time readers of Ward’s 10 Best Engines: Nissan’s heralded VQ V-6.
GM’s application of the mild-hybrid technology comes up short on the fuel-economy promise, turning in an average of less than 24 mpg on the Buick sedan.
The auto industry now offers entry-level products that make their predecessors seem like they came off the same line as Conestoga wagons.
