Infiniti's VC-Turbo, the world's first variable compression ratio engine, has been recognised with high scoring results at The International Engine + Powertrain of the Year Awards. The 268bhp VC-Turbo was recognised in two key categories - 250PS to 350PS, as well as Best New Engine, competing with the best the automotive industry has launched this year.

The engine was first introduced in the new Infiniti QX50 premium midsize sport utility vehicle. A 2.0-litre turbocharged and intercooled engine, the VC-Turbo is the result of more than 20 years of ingenuity and passion within Nissan Motor Co. The groundbreaking engine is able to intelligently switch between compression ratios of 8:1 (for power) and 14:1 (for efficiency) in just over a second. It can also operate at any ratio between the two, to suit the demands of the driver and road conditions. 

"Aside from gaining a big advantage over rival brands with this technology, Infiniti and Nissan might just have saved the internal combustion engine as we know it," said Dean Slavnich, Co-chairman of the awards. "And in doing so, it has secured their own future too, because innovation brings success." 

"Variable compression ratio technology represents a breakthrough in powertrain development," said Michael Colleran, Deputy Chairman of Infiniti Motor Company. "The QX50, powered by the VC-Turbo, is the first production vehicle ever to give drivers an engine that transforms on demand, setting a new benchmark for powertrain capability and refinement, so customers can have the best combination of power and efficiency."