For the first time in 23 years of testing, a V8 fails to earn a spot on the list, but many of the high-output turbocharged 6-cyl. engines in the competition, even some that didn’t make the cut, generate enough horsepower and torque to fill the void. Two of the honorees are return winners.

Since 1995, the competition has recognized outstanding engines and electrified propulsion systems, as well as the technology and engineering behind them. This year’s field of 40 nominees includes all new or significantly improved powertrains, as well as last year’s 10 returning winners.

The Class of 2017 in alphabetical order:

• 3.0L Turbocharged DOHC I-6 (BMW M240i)
• 1.5L DOHC 4-cyl./Dual Motor EREV (Chevrolet Volt)
• 3.6L DOHC V-6/Dual Motor PHEV (Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid)
• 2.3L Turbocharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Ford Focus RS)
• 2.0L DOHC 4-cyl./Dual Motor HEV (Honda Accord Hybrid)
• 1.4L Turbocharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Hyundai Elantra Eco)
• 3.0L Turbocharged DOHC V-6 (Infiniti Q50)
• 2.5L Turbocharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Mazda CX-9)
• 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Mercedes-Benz C300)
• 2.0L Turbo/Supercharged DOHC 4-cyl. (Volvo V60 Polestar)