Who Makes the Best Car Engines in 2025?

The best car engines depend on what you value: Toyota/Lexus and Honda lead for long-term reliability and low ownership costs; BMW and Porsche set the benchmark for performance with durability; Mercedes-AMG builds the most potent four-cylinder; GM and Ford dominate trucks; and Toyota/Lexus remain the hybrid efficiency standard. Below, we explain the strengths, trade-offs, and engines to watch so you can match the right manufacturer to your needs.

What “best” really means

“Best” varies by driver and use case. Daily commuters often prioritize reliability, fuel economy, and low maintenance. Enthusiasts seek performance that’s robust over time. Fleet and truck buyers need torque, cooling, and serviceability. Hybrids and plug-in hybrids add another layer: software, thermal management, and battery longevity. With that framing, here’s how leading companies stack up in 2025.

Leaders by category

Everyday reliability and longevity

For buyers who keep cars 8–15 years and want predictable costs, a handful of brands consistently produce engines that go the distance with minimal drama when serviced on schedule.

• Toyota/Lexus: Dynamic Force four-cylinders (e.g., A25A-FKS/FXS 2.5L) and Toyota Hybrid System units have outstanding long-term records. The 2025 Camry’s hybrid-only lineup continues this trend; routine service is straightforward and parts availability is excellent.
• Honda: Modern i-VTEC engines and matured small turbos (e.g., updated 1.5T L15B in 2019+ applications, K20C performance variants) balance efficiency and durability. Early oil-dilution complaints in cold climates were addressed with software and hardware updates.
• Mazda: Skyactiv-G 2.0/2.5 naturally aspirated engines are simple, efficient, and generally trouble-free. The 2.5T has been solid when maintained with quality oil and timely spark plug changes.
• Porsche: Flat-six engines in mainstream 911 and 718 applications pair longevity with performance when maintained on schedule, though ownership costs are higher than mass-market brands.

These manufacturers pair conservative engineering with strong quality control and large service networks, which keeps long-term hassles and costs low.

Performance with staying power

If you want power, refinement, and a strong reliability record under spirited use, these engines are widely respected by technicians and enthusiasts alike.

• BMW: The B58 3.0L inline-six (and higher-output S58) offers smooth power, robust internals, and a strong track record across BMW models and the Toyota GR Supra.
• Porsche: Modern 9A2/MA2 flat-six families deliver repeatable track-day performance with excellent thermal management and oiling, now evolving with hybrid assistance on select 2025 911 GTS models.
• Mercedes-AMG: The M139 2.0L turbo four is the world’s most powerful series-production four-cylinder, and the hybridized longitudinal M139 variants extend that punch in cars like the C 63 S E Performance.
• GM (Chevrolet): Small-block LT V8s (LT1/LT2/LT4) combine massive tuning headroom with real-world durability, from Corvette to Camaro and beyond.
• Ford: The 5.0L “Coyote” V8 remains a stout, high-revving unit in Mustang and F-150; later generations have improved cooling, fueling, and valvetrain durability.

These engines are notable for delivering high output without chronic weak points when maintained and used within design limits.

Hybrids and efficiency champions

Hybrids are now mainstream, and their engines must integrate seamlessly with electric drive, software, and cooling systems for years of trouble-free service.

• Toyota/Lexus: Toyota Hybrid System (e.g., A25A-FXS 2.5L) sets the reliability and efficiency benchmark, with proven longevity in taxis, fleets, and personal use worldwide.
• Honda: The latest e:HEV two-motor systems in Accord and CR-V deliver excellent real-world economy with smooth transitions and a growing reputation for durability.
• Hyundai/Kia: Recent Smartstream hybrid systems (1.6L GDI-based) provide strong efficiency and performance; the brands’ long warranties add ownership confidence, though earlier GDI engines had widely publicized recalls.
• Ford: The 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid in Escape/Maverick has shown solid reliability and low operating costs when serviced on schedule.

For most buyers seeking low fuel costs and minimal complexity over time, Toyota/Lexus remains the safest bet, with Honda close behind and others improving rapidly.

Trucks and heavy-duty work

Towing, hauling, and long idling require robust blocks, cooling, and transmissions. These engines have strong records in real-world fleet duty.

• GM Duramax 6.6L (L5P): Praised for reliability and torque in Silverado/Sierra HD, with strong aftermarket and service support.
• Ram Cummins 6.7L: Known for durability and low-end torque; excellent for heavy towing when maintained properly.
• Ford Power Stroke 6.7L: Strong performance and improved reliability in late-model Super Duty trucks; stick to severe-duty service intervals.
• GM 6.2/5.3L small-block gas V8s: Simple, proven architecture with ample torque; watch for lifter issues on certain AFM/DFM applications.
• Ford 7.3L “Godzilla” gas V8: A modern pushrod design prized by fleets for simplicity and stoutness.

Choose based on your towing profile and local service network; for extreme loads, modern diesels excel, while big gas V8s offer lower complexity and fuel-cost predictability.

Notable engines to watch (strengths and caveats)

Even strong manufacturers have specific engines or early model years that deserve extra attention. Awareness helps you buy wisely and maintain proactively.

• Toyota/Lexus V35A-FTS 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (Tundra/Sequoia): Big step in power and efficiency; early 2022–2023 wastegate actuator and oil-leak concerns led to service campaigns—later builds show improvements.
• Volkswagen/Audi EA888 Gen 3 2.0T: Excellent blend of torque and efficiency; reliability is good with correct oil and timely PCV/ignition service, but expect carbon buildup over high mileage.
• Honda 1.5T L15B (early applications): Cold-climate oil dilution complaints in early Civics/CR-Vs were mitigated by updates; 2019+ tend to fare well when driven to full operating temperature regularly.
• Hyundai/Kia Theta II 2.0/2.4 GDI (older models): Subject to major recalls and extended warranties for bearing failures; later Smartstream engines are improved, but shoppers should verify recall completion and service history.
• BMW older turbo fours/sixes (e.g., N20, early N55; Europe’s N47 diesels): Known for timing and valvetrain concerns; the newer B-series (B48/B58) significantly improved durability.

Judge engines by specific code and build years, not just brand reputation. A pre-purchase inspection and maintenance records are invaluable.

How to choose the right engine for you

A methodical approach will narrow your options to the engine families that fit your driving and ownership expectations.

1. Define your duty cycle: daily commute, towing, track days, or mixed use.
2. Identify the exact engine code and generation for any model you’re considering.
3. Check reliability data, TSBs, recalls, and extended coverage by engine code and year.
4. Review maintenance requirements (oil spec/intervals, spark plugs, coolant, timing components) and cost.
5. Test-drive under conditions that mimic your use (highway, grades, heat/cold).
6. Assess dealer and independent service availability for that brand/engine locally.
7. Match fuel requirements (regular vs premium) and plan for quality fluids and parts.

This checklist helps you filter marketing claims and focus on real-world ownership, ensuring the engine you pick matches your priorities.

Bottom line

No single company builds the “best” engine for everyone. For the broadest reliability and low-cost ownership, Toyota/Lexus and Honda are hard to beat, with Mazda close behind. For high performance with strong durability, look to BMW’s B58/S58, Porsche’s flat-sixes, AMG’s M139, GM’s small-block LTs, and Ford’s Coyote. For hybrids, Toyota/Lexus remains the class leader. In trucks, Duramax, Cummins, and Power Stroke set the standard, with Ford’s 7.3L gas V8 and GM’s small-blocks offering simpler alternatives. Always evaluate the specific engine code and model years you’re considering, not just the badge.

Summary

Best for reliability: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, Mazda. Best for performance and durability: BMW B58/S58, Porsche flat-sixes, Mercedes-AMG M139, GM LT V8s, Ford Coyote. Best hybrids: Toyota/Lexus, with Honda close behind. Best trucks: GM Duramax, Ram Cummins, Ford Power Stroke; for gas, Ford 7.3L and GM small-blocks. Choose by your use case, engine code, maintenance history, and local service support.

What car brand has the least engine problems?

According to a recent study by Consumer Reports, Toyota and Lexus were the most reliable vehicles in 2022. After Japanese cars, BMW was ranked third, while Mercedes’ reliability was rated the lowest.

Which car company has the best engine?

BMW is renowned for its engineering and performance, particularly in its inline-six engines and the M series. However, several other manufacturers are also highly regarded: Honda: Known for its reliable and efficient engines, particularly in the compact segment.

Which car engine lasts the longest?

Top 10 Most Reliable Engines That Just Won’t Die – Honorable Mentions

Engine	Key Vehicles
Toyota 1GR-FE 4.0L	Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser
Honda B18C	Acura Integra GS-R, JDM Civics
Chevrolet 5.7L Vortec V8 engine	Chevy Silverado, Suburban
Toyota 2JZ-GE	Toyota Supra (non-turbo), Lexus IS300

Which company makes the most reliable engines?

Top 10 Most Reliable Engines in the World

1. Toyota 2.5L 4-Cylinder (2AR-FE)
2. Honda 2.4L K-Series (K20/K24)
3. BMW 3.0L Inline-6 (N52)
4. Toyota 1.8L 4-Cylinder (1ZZ-FE)
5. GM 5.3L V8 (LS-Series)
6. Mazda 2.0L SkyActiv-G.
7. Volkswagen 1.9L TDI (ALH)
8. Ford 4.6L Modular V8 (SOHC)