The Evolution of Internal Combustion Engines and Their Longevity
Since the invention of one of the first practical automobiles, the Motorwagen, over a century ago, internal combustion engines have dominated the automotive landscape. These engines operate by mixing fuel and air to generate thermal energy, which is then converted into mechanical torque to power the vehicle. While the core principle of internal combustion has remained steadfast, manufacturers have continuously refined engine designs, introducing various configurations, sizes, and capabilities. Throughout the years, these engines have benefited from numerous innovations, including forced induction systems, advanced fuel injection, and variable valve timing, among others.
Despite the recent surge in electric vehicles, one crucial aspect that continues to resonate with everyday drivers is engine longevity—specifically, the lifespan of an engine before encountering major issues or costly repairs. To address this, we have explored the spectrum of powertrains that automakers have introduced through the years, taking into account expert reviews and performance ratings to highlight some of the most dependable options available. Below, we present ten car brands renowned for manufacturing some of the most reliable engines in the industry.
Toyota
No discussion of automotive reliability is complete without mentioning Toyota. The brand has become synonymous with durable vehicles, offering a diverse lineup that includes affordable and efficient models equipped with engines designed for longevity. Over the years, Toyota has developed a wide range of powertrains, including traditional gasoline engines, diesel units, and hybrid systems.
One of the standout examples of Toyota’s engineering prowess is the 2GR-FE V6 engine, which can be found in popular models such as the Highlander, Camry, and RAV4. This engine features a cast-aluminum alloy cylinder block, which combines strength with reduced weight. Since its introduction in 2004, it has appeared on Ward’s 10 Best Engines list multiple times, highlighting its remarkable performance and durability.
Moreover, Toyota continues to innovate within the internal combustion realm. The company has refined its inline four-cylinder engines, exemplified by the 2.5-liter hybrid electric powertrain in the Toyota Camry XSE AWD, which received accolades from Ward’s as one of the best hybrid engines upon its debut. Another notable addition is the turbocharged G16W-GTS 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine powering the Toyota GR Corolla. Across its entire lineup, Toyota models consistently rank among the least prone to significant engine problems, reinforcing its strong reputation for reliability.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet has a storied history of building fast, powerful, and dependable vehicles. Since its inception, the brand has focused on delivering robust engines in a cost-effective manner, a commitment that remains evident in the reliability of its powertrains today. The earliest Chevrolet models were equipped with a 299 cubic inch six-cylinder engine, but the brand made significant strides with the introduction of the Blue Flame six-cylinder engine, which gained prominence in the 1950s and became the first engine to power the iconic Corvette.
Chevrolet’s small block V8 engines have left an indelible mark on the industry, widely regarded as some of the most influential engines of the 20th century. In 2010, an OnStar diagnostic report analyzed nearly 2 million Chevrolet vehicles, revealing that an impressive 99.3% showed no engine or transmission issues. This data provided solid evidence of Chevrolet’s dedication to dependability.
Volvo
Volvo may not enjoy the same level of popularity in the U.S. as some competitors, but the Swedish automaker boasts a strong reputation for crafting exceptional engines. Volvo’s journey in engine development began with partnerships with marine engine manufacturer Pentaverken, which Volvo eventually acquired in 1935, rebranding it as Volvo Penta. Over time, the company has developed a range of engine types, with a recent focus on electrified mobility, offering gasoline, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full-electric powertrains.
Every new Volvo now features at least a mild-hybrid system, reflecting the brand’s commitment to improved efficiency and reduced emissions. Previous engine designations such as T5 and T6 have been updated to newer models labeled B5 and B6. Several Volvo engines have been recognized on Ward’s 10 Best Engines list, including the 2.0-liter turbocharged DOHC I-4 used in the Volvo S60 and the turbocharged and supercharged variant powering the XC90.
Honda
Honda initially made its mark with motorcycles and race cars before establishing itself as a dominant player in the passenger car market. Today, the company is a global leader in engine manufacturing, not only for vehicles but also for motorcycles, marine applications, and various electronic machinery. Honda emphasizes superior performance, exceptional quality, and advanced engineering, which is evident in its iconic VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system.
Over the decades, Honda has developed a multitude of engines recognized for their reliability and performance, including the B18C5, F20C, and celebrated K20 engine. Honda’s long-standing reputation for reliability is validated through consistent industry recognition, utilizing components designed for longevity and focusing on building sustainable, fuel-efficient powertrains that meet global environmental standards.
Mazda
Mazda has earned a reputation for reliability, boasting a strong 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, with only a 10% chance of severe repairs. The brand’s commitment to creating dependable combustion engines has been central to its mission, even as the automotive industry shifts toward electric and hybrid technologies. However, Mazda remains innovative, focusing on developing efficient and forward-thinking powertrains.
What sets Mazda apart is its unconventional approach to engine design, which began with the introduction of its legendary rotary engine. This engine type is lighter and more compact than traditional piston engines, enabling versatile vehicle design and high-performance capabilities. Although Mazda has phased out the rotary engine, its advancements continue with the SKYACTIV technology, which offers significant fuel efficiency improvements while delivering impressive power.
Lexus
Operating under the Toyota umbrella, Lexus has established itself as a luxury automotive brand known for refined design and premium comfort. The brand consistently produces engines that rank highly in reliability across various review platforms. While Lexus shares some engines with Toyota, it has developed unique powertrains, such as the 1UR-FE, recognized as one of the most reliable engines in Lexus models.
The 1LR-GUE 4.8-liter V10 from the Lexus LFA is a standout, acclaimed as a masterpiece that elevated Lexus’s performance engineering. The 1UZ-FE 4.0-liter V8, which powered the LS 400, is another notable engine, built with an aluminum block and featuring four overhead camshafts. This engine has gained a reputation for longevity, with many exceeding 200,000 miles without major repairs.
Ford
Ford is one of the most recognizable names in the American automotive landscape, known for producing some of the best-selling cars and trucks in history. Interestingly, Henry Ford’s journey began with engine development, leading to the creation of the Quadricycle and the revolutionary Model T, which became one of the first mass-produced vehicles in the U.S.
Ford has developed a wide range of engines over its storied history, many of which are benchmarks for performance and dependability. The company has made multiple appearances on Ward’s 10 Best Engines list, with notable examples including the 5.0-liter V8 and the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the 2017 Focus RS. Ford’s legacy also includes iconic engines such as the Flathead V8, Windsor V8, and Y-block V8, each making a significant impact during their time.
Nissan
Nissan has built a reputation for producing dependable engines across its extensive lineup of sedans, trucks, and SUVs. Frequently regarded as one of Japan’s leading engine manufacturers, Nissan’s reputation for durability is well-founded, securing a solid 4.0 reliability rating that places it among the top ten automakers for dependability.
Several Nissan engines have become legendary, contributing to the automaker’s strong reputation. The SR20DET, which powered the Nissan S13 and S15, is highly regarded for its performance and extensive aftermarket support. Even more notable is the VQ V6 engine series, including the VQ30DE and VQ35DE, which has made Ward’s Top Engines list an impressive 13 times, underscoring its reliability. Nissan is also heavily investing in electric motor technology, as seen in its electric motor powering the Nissan Ariya, recognized on the 2023 Ward’s Top 10 Engines list.
Hyundai
Hyundai has built a solid reputation for manufacturing affordable vehicles, but it is also becoming recognized as a reliable choice in the automotive industry. With a focus on cutting-edge technology, Hyundai’s powertrains are quickly becoming appealing not just in pricing but also in engineering excellence. While it may not be the first name that comes to mind for high-performance engines, Hyundai has proven to be one of the more dependable options available.
In recent years, Hyundai has made significant strides toward electric vehicle (EV) technology, with several of its electric motors earning spots on Ward’s Top 10 Engines list. However, the company has not entirely abandoned traditional internal combustion engines. Instead, Hyundai enhances these engines with advanced technologies designed to minimize emissions and maximize performance, such as Continuous Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) and Dual-Port Fuel Injection (DPFI). Looking ahead, Hyundai aims to challenge the conventional notion of gasoline engines with the development of Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), which will utilize a gasoline engine solely for recharging the battery that powers the electric motor.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz, while actively transitioning towards electrified mobility, has a rich legacy of crafting exceptional combustion engines. The German automaker has produced a diverse array of powertrains over the years, including gasoline, diesel, and natural gas variants, all engineered with a focus on refinement and sophistication. Among its notable offerings are the engines found in AMG performance models, particularly the M113 K 5.4-liter V8, which was introduced in 2003 and enhanced performance compared to its predecessor.
At one point, Mercedes-Benz was ranked among the top three manufacturers for engine reliability, with an impressive failure rate of just one in every 119 engines. Although its current standing in reliability rankings may have shifted, the company continues to produce durable and well-engineered powertrains. A prime example is the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine in the Mercedes C300, which earned a spot on Ward’s list in 2017 for being one of the best-performing and most dependable engines available.