It used to be, not terribly long ago, that an engine was defined by the fuel that fed its internal combustion. Gasoline or diesel, with a few outliers like the Wankel rotary. Nowadays, though, the automotive definition of an engine has taken on entirely new meaning with the proliferation of electrification.
The changeover from a bigger-is-better, high-horsepower mentality has been gradual, but it's typified by Wards' 10 Best Engines list for 2016. For the first time ever, there are three electrified drivetrains recognized by Wards, and they join one diesel, two naturally aspirated V6s, a turbocharged inline six, an immensely impressive V8 and one four-cylinder that boasts both turbo- and supercharging.
There's never been a more interesting list of powertrains to single out than there is in 2016, and Wards' list doesn't disappoint in its variety.
3.0L Turbocharged DOHC I-6 (BMW 340i)
2.0L Turbo/Supercharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Volvo XC90)
1.8L DOHC 4-cyl./53-kW Drive Motor (Toyota Prius HEV)
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