Fiat's revolutionary two-cylinder TwinAir petrol engine has been honoured with four awards at the 2011 International Engine of the Year awards, including the overall engine of the year title.
The awards are judged by a jury of 76 journalists and industry experts from 36 countries, and they had some pretty flattering things to say about the little Fiat motor:
"This is proof that aggressive downsizing need not spell timid performance. Surprisingly torquey, impressively and affordably efficient, this tiny twin also has plenty of character" said John Carey of Wheels magazine in Australia.
In addition to the overall award, the Fiat TwinAir engine also won the 'Best New Engine' and 'Best Green Engine' titles and came out tops in the 'Sub 1-litre' category.
Runners up for the overall Engine of the Year award were Volkswagen's 1.4-litre TSI Twincharged petrol engine in second place and Ferrari's new 4.5-litre V8 that's fitted to the 458 Italia.
WHAT MAKES THE FIAT SO GREAT?
Fiat's TwinAir petrol engine is a marvel in downsizing technology, the two-cylinder unit displacing just 875cc, yet producing up to 78kW of power while sipping fuel like a small diesel.
The engine uses MultiAir technology to 'micro manage' the intake valves and a turbocharger to provide the necessary extra boost.
Currently available in the Fiat 500 range, and also due to reach South Africa in this format later this year, the TwinAir produces 63kW in 'normal' form and, according to Fiat, consumes just 4.1 litres per 100km - equating to a 95g/km CO2 emissions figure.
For those needing a little more fire power, Fiat says a 78kW 'performance' version is due to be launched in Europe soon.