Data shows that 267,060 engines were produced in the first month of the year, compared to 235,076 in January 2017 - a rise of 13.6% and record production for the second January running.
In total, 115,266 engines were produced for the home market, compared to 95,371 in January 2017 - a rise of 20.9%.
Meanwhile, 151,794 engines were produced for the export market, compared to 139,705 in January 2017 - a rise of 8.7%.
SMMT chief Mike Hawes said: "It’s great to see UK engine manufacturing start the year with another record performance – a result of massive investment into R&D and plants in recent years.
"However, with the bulk of output ultimately destined for overseas, whether for vehicle assembly in another country or as part of a British-built car, securing a deal that keeps trade flowing freely with our biggest partner, the EU, is now an urgent priority."
