All engines get you where you're going, but some do it with better fuel efficiency, more power per liter, or better NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics. Each year the editors of Ward's Auto World pick the best 10 engines.
For 2006, four of the ten have forced induction, meaning supercharging or turbocharging, and three have direct injection gasoline (DIG), in which the fuel is injected directly into the cylinder rather than into the intake manifold (ducting) leading to the engine. The result of DIG is quicker response getting off at stoplights.
A generation ago, turbocharged or supercharged engines were only found on exotic cars. Now, technology has brought the price down, and just as important, made them reliable for everyday driving.
Audi and General Motors have two engines each on the list. Others are from BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Ford, Mazda, Nissan, and Toyota. While hybrid engines won in past years, rising expectations kept Honda and Toyota engines off this year's list. Mixed real-world fuel economy, reduced economy in cold weather, and non-premium sounds from premium-price hybrid engines were all factors, says Ward's.
Click through our slideshow to see the 10 best engines, alongside the cars you'll find them in.
For a review of the Lexus G 450h with its powerful hybrid engine, click here.
To read about the hybrid Toyota Prius, click here.
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