Ward’s Names 10 Best Engines for 2006

The winners of Ward’s 10 Best Engines awards for 2006 demonstrate U.S. auto consumers still can have it all: Many of the winning engines highlight sophisticated new technology that generates exhilarating performance – but also improves fuel economy.

The 2006 list marks the 12th year for the Ward’s 10 Best Engines program, the auto industry’s highly anticipated annual barometer of powertrain prowess.

This year’s winners, as well as the vehicles tested, include:

Audi AG: 2L FSI turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Audi A3)

Audi AG: 4.2L DOHC V-8 (Audi S4)

BMW AG: 3L DOHC I-6 (330i)

DaimlerChrysler AG:5.7L Hemi Magnum OHV V-8 (Dodge Charger R/T)

Ford Motor Co.: 4.6L SOHC V-8 (Mustang GT)

General Motors Corp.: 2L supercharged DOHC I-4 (Chevrolet Cobalt SS)

General Motors Corp.: 2.8L turbocharged DOHC V-6 (Saab 9-3 Aero)

Mazda Motor Corp.: 2.3L DISI turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Mazdaspeed 6)

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.: 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Infiniti G35 6MT)

Toyota Motor Corp.: 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Lexus IS 350)

Two important engineering developments are front and center for several engines on this year’s list: direct-injection gasoline (DIG) technology and forced induction. These systems allow engineers to develop engines that generate startling power yet return acceptable fuel economy.

BMW 3L pays homage to inline-6 architecture.

DIG technology is emerging as one of the powertrain sector’s most promising new developments. Injecting fuel directly into each of the engine’s cylinders produces outstanding performance and emissions improvements for new-generation diesels. Engineers now are using the technology for gasoline engines to generate improved low- and mid-range torque and in many cases to conserve fuel.

DIG systems are featured on three of this year’s 10 Best Engines winners.

The technology is widespread throughout Audi AG’s engine lineup, and buyers of the entry-level A3 have access to this year’s winning 2L FSI DOHC I-4.

The FSI system (an acronym for “Fuel Straight Injection”), combined with a sophisticated variable-geometry turbocharger, helps Audi’s diminutive 2L powerhouse produce 100 hp per liter – an industry benchmark for performance.

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I dont think there are any engineawards weere a BMW engine hasnt been nominated.

Where's the M5 engine !?!?

Here' s your anwswer: All engines nominated and tested were in vehicles with a base suggested retail price under $52,500.

Ahh... my bad for not paying attention.

Audi has two of the ten best engines. Very good result.

I guess that's why we get the S4 engine on there and not the RS4's.

We have come to the age to see an American engine surpass a German one for DaimlerChrysler...

yes, but so does GM. What does that tell you?

3.0L I6 again kicks @$$! What else?