Who makes the best engine in the world?

The German marque, which has scooped more trophies for engine excellence than any other company in the Awards' 10-year history, faces tough competition from over 20 new entrants to the Awards in 2008™ Expected to fare well in this year's Awards are three particularly strong challenges from Japan. Subaru's first-ever diesel is a much-respected effort, while Nissan's 3.8-litre twin-turbo, found under the hood of the GT-R, and Mitsubishi's 2-litre turbo in the EVO X are technologically advanced and powerful.

Strong contenders for BMW's crown also comes from Europe, with Audi's 5-litre V10, Fiat's small, but powerful 1.4-litre Turbo, and Volvo's 3-litre turbo from the V70 to name just three. Meanwhile there are high hopes for North American success thanks to GM's new 6.2-litre turbo that powers the Corvette ZR1 and Cadillac CTS-V, plus Chrysler's 1.8-litre joint effort with Mitsubishi and Hyundai could well yield results.

However, BMW also has new engines to help defend its number one status: the mighty 4-litre V8, that powers the M3, and the innovative 2-litre twin-turbo diesel, housed in the 123d. Both engines have already earned praise in the world's motoring press - can they help BMW retain the title?

The results of the International Engine of the Year Awards 2008 will be decided by a panel of 65 renowned automotive journalists from 32 countries and will be announced on Wednesday 7 May at Engine Expo 2008, held in Stuttgart 6-8 May 2008.