Big news for small outboard users.
Mercury Marine has launched a new series of 25 hp and 30 hp EFI Outboards that will utilize the company's ultra-popular VesselView system previously only available on larger units. The new capability will give small boat owners similar access to their larger counterparts, including the ability to track, monitor, and maintain their outboard via their smartphone, as well as connect their engine to their favourite fish-finding displays from Lowrance, Simrad, Garmin, or Raymarine .
The new EFI Outboards will be four-stroke motors available in 25 or 30 hp and will include Mercury's renowned 4ST dependability. The new platform is 15% lighter than previous generations, making the overall weight of the 3-cylinder engine the lightest in its class. Both models will also include a new tiller design with the most advanced features in the industry.
The updated 25 and 30hp FourStroke and newly introduced 25hp SeaPro models will be ideal for 11-16 foot V-bottom utility and Jon aluminum boats, inflatable boats, 11-13 foot composite and fiberglass micro-skiffs, and shallow V-bottom boats. Additionally, the introduction of a 25hp ProKicker addresses demand for better trolling control for larger boats in the 26- to 39-foot range operating in rough waters.
Integrated SmartCraft digital technology and VesselView Connect will give owners unparalleled access to their engine's internal diagnostics, which will not only streamline maintenance but also allow users in remote locations to monitor their systems more effectively.
Other options include remote or tiller controls, manual or power trim, or the choice of electric or manual start. Mercury will also back their launch with a three year limited warranty and the industry's only three-year corrosion warranty for recreational use.
“Mercury’s new 25 and 30hp platform brings new capabilities and a better consumer experience to a wide variety of recreational and commercial boats,” said Chris Drees, Mercury Marine president. “In addition to being lighter, faster and quieter, the new engines in this lineup deliver what boaters have asked for with exciting new options like digital technologies and an ergonomically positioned tiller handle.”
Other standout features include:
A 500cc powerhead generates impressive torque to move heavy loads with ease
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) provides surefire starts in any weather. On manual-start engines, battery-free EFI delivers efficient, reliable performance without a bulky cranking battery
17-amp alternator generates powerful battery-charging output to keep your onboard electronics humming, even at low speeds.
Intuitive Handling. The nearly 23-inch tiller features forward-mounted power trim buttons, an oversized shift lever and an engine stop button on the end of the grip.
Adjustable Control. The Mercury tiller adapts to you, not the other way around. You can reverse the grip for left- or right-handed throttling and laterally adjust the tiller angle for better leverage and control.
Custom Black Max® Propellers in 10.9x10, 10.7x11, 10.6x12, and 10.5x13
Troll Control- allows you to lock in engine rpm with one touch, then adjust in 10-rpm increments to provide ultimate speed control for angers.
A no-spill oil change system, easy-out filters, and a gearcase that will fully drain from any tilt position, so users can complete maintenance nearly anywhere.
The biggest upside will undoubtedly be access to the VesselView and SmartCraft Connect monitoring systems. Users can sync their smartphone to their engine to monitor performance data and track engine maintenance. Users can also connect their engine to their favourite fish-finding displays from Lowrance, Simrad, Garmin, or Raymarine. Reports from the VesselView Mobile system can even be shared with dealers to coordinate service or provide feedback about performance.
You can get the first look at the new 25 hp and 30 hp outboards in the video below:
