Looks like the new VQHR made it [again], along w/some close rivals:

http://wardsauto.com/home/best_engines_winners/

 

Awesome, 13 years and counting!

 

"For 2007, the heavily revised, fourth-generation 3.5L VQ boasts a V-8-challenging 306 hp and 268 lb.-ft. (363 Nm) of torque."

That is the V-6, not V-8 as quoted.

 

They are just saying that it is V8 challenging.....not that it actually is a V8.

 

True. I scanned through it too quickly. There is a reference to the V-6 above this paragraph. Props to Nissan.

 

They should call it Ward's Nissan VQ engine and the other top 9 engines

 

I'm starting to believe in 6 cyl. I used to want a V8 just because, well, it does have secondary balance, but mostly because it's an 8. But 306 hp from the VQ is impressive, and probably saves weight and fuel. On the 335 I got 27.4 mpg on my first trip, according to the computer. An 8 would probably have consumed more fuel. I would love to see the VQ do something like 330/300 hp/tq, just bump it up when the coupe comes out!! I bet it's got more. My Maxima has 135k and going strong, so this motor is durable too.

 

I agree. I generally look for powerful 6 cylinders when I'm in the market for a car due to the fact that its going to save (even if it just a little) on fuel. I'm not sure we can really call the VQ fuel efficient compared to other V6's that are on the market today (i.e. your 335i, John), but that's okay. V8's are making good strides these days though. Look at the Corvette's MPG estimate. 18/28 for the 6.0L

 

dont know about you guys, but I'm still struggling to get above 13mpg babying the gas paddle. Covette's 400+hp on 18/28 sounds good about now.

 

The VQ is, unfortunately, a pig. No direct injection kind of kills it. Luckily it makes up for that by being a fantastic engine otherwise.

 

!!!!!!!

 

How dare you say that this motor is a pig

Agreed that this motor is very deserving of this award - it is indeed fantastic outside of being efficient. I for one would like to see an overall winner on this list.

 

It's nice to know we all backed a winner.

It'd be nicer if Ward's figured out that you can't use html tags in the title...

 

Sorry to hear that. Not sure how many miles you have but some people here have reported good mileage while driving it hard. My first tank was about 14mpg and I drove a lot in sport and ds to vary engine rpm. My third tank now in varied driving is more like 18. I've kept it (mostly) under 5k rpm but certainly haven't babied it; too much fun. Others with more mileage or knowledge can chime in, but maybe you need to give it a little more of what it wants?