After reviewing 37 different engines and propulsion systems, WardsAuto recognizes the Corvette engine as one of the best.

The high performance, technology-packed LT1 Small Block 6.2L V8 that powers the 2015 Corvette Stingray is a Ward’s 10 Best Engine for 2015. The engine also was recognized with this award in 2014.

The various systems come from 12 manufacturers in this year’s competition. WardsAuto looked at power, fuel efficiency, new technology and refinement and compared the attributes with data for similar engines.

The engine delivers an SAE-certified 460 horsepower, helping propel the car from 0-96 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a quarter mile in 12 seconds while offering a fuel consumption rating of 8.1 L/100km highway with an 8-speed automatic or 7-speed manual transmission.

“The 6.2L LT1 V-8 is the heart and soul of the seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette, and it proudly upholds the 60-year legacy of small-block engines from General Motors,” said Tom Murphy, executive editor of WardsAuto World digital magazine, based in the United States. “This ones been re-engineered from head to torque converter, and the LT1 is the crown jewel of this massive engine family.”

“In the Corvette, this 460-hp V-8 barks with authority, delivering an exhaust note reminiscent of Detroit’s finest muscle cars. And its efficient, too. WardsAuto editors flogging the Vette for more than 300 miles managed better than 20 mpg with the new 8-speed automatic.

The LT1, part of the Gen 5 family of Small Block engines, combines several advanced technologies – direct injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, and continuously variable valve timing – to support an advanced combustion system.

Direct injection is a primary contributor to greater combustion efficiency by ensuring a more complete burn of the fuel in the air-fuel mixture. This is achieved by precisely controlling the mixture motion and fuel injection spray pattern. Direct injection also keeps the combustion chamber cooler, which allows for a higher compression ratio

SOURCE General Motors Canada