https://www.wardsauto.com/10-best-engines-propulsion-systems/all-inclusive-list-2020-wards-10-best-engines-propulsion-systems Honda 2.0L DOHC Atkinson i-VTEC 4-Cyl. is a repeat winner of Ward 10 best engine award. While it is for the 2.0l version in the Accrod, it is very similar to the drivetrain in Clarity, the main difference being larger battery and smaller engine.
As to the mpg Accord Hybrid mpg, yes 48 city/47 highway is pretty spectacular. I can get close to that with the Clarity at times, but it takes driving more like sub 60 mph usually to pull it off (non interstate travel). Always have to remember for the Clarity to either check the mileage with calculations from the pump or discount the car's display by 10%. I averaged about 44 mpg on a recent 1225 mile gasoline only stretch (burned 28 gallons of gasoline) driving 70-75 MPH with the car pretty loaded and in rain for about 200 miles with very little climate usage. I was pretty happy with that.
Basically it shows you can cut emissions by 40% just by switching from ICE to regular hybrid drive trains. It works for all types of car (SUVs, trucks, etc.), doesn't need any infrastructure, provides better performance, more reliability and more range. I think Honda hybrid, both in hybrid and PHEV form is a winner and has a lot of potential.
This is likely to be one of the most reliable drivetrain designs they have. It doesn't use turbo charging or direct injection features or mechanical gear shifting, which may cause long term lower reliability. It's the simplest way to combine electric drive and gas engine.
