Every year since 1999 there has been a gathering of views over 65 motoring journalist to select the best engines made available today in various aspects such as technology used, drivability, economy, performance, and refinement.
Awards are given to a few categories of engines such as International Engine of the Year, Best Performance Engine, Best New Engine, Green Engine, and according to Capacity Classes. Among them are the engine awards most anticipated by motoring companies as it will make a difference in either pushing sales or pushing them away from the business.
This year we see the emergence of BMW engines being the winner for multiple categories including the International Engine of the Year 2008. With the BMW 3 liter Twin Turbo used in the 135, 335, and the X6, it sets it’s points just barely over Volkswagen’s TSI. With BMW’s new high-precision direct injection system, it helps the engine to drink less fuel while producing a good amount of power to the wheels. Rather using a single large turbocharger, the design of two smaller turbocharger is the key to balance out the boosts throughout the rev range, eliminating lag while acceleration.
Another engine being awarded the Best New Engine of the year is the BMW 2 liter Diesel Twin Turbo used in the 123D. This 4 cylinder engine is claimed by BMW by far the most powerful of all, thanks to the balancing act of power increase, weight reduction, and lower emissions. The 2 liter diesel twin turbo kept its fellow 4 liter V8 used in M3 off the Best New Engine category. It simply is because of the innovative technology used to create a lightweight engine block, while maintaining the build of a solid and rigid block, making it a more powerful engine than petrol of the same capacity.
Another award appeared to be new this year is the Green Engine of the Year award. Replacing previous Best Fuel Economy award, this year’s Green Engine Award is again the Toyota 1.5 liter Hybrid Synergy Drive used in the Toyota Prius. Judges still fond over the concept of the Hybrid Synergy Drive that combines petrol and electric used to propel a car. With a low power output of just 76bhp the Prius uses another 67bhp produced by another electric motor, thus conserving fuel and keeping the CO2 emission level low.
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