Yamaha has announced a full complement of products for 2023, including their highest powered outboard to date.
The all-new XTO Offshore 450 will offer the largest horsepower of any Yamaha engine, superseding the previous XTO 425.
The new XTO Offshore 450 will use the same 5.6 liter V8 big block displacement as the 425, but several internal enhancements generate the noticeable upgrade in power.
The company also announced the arrival of all-new F150 and F200 outboards, as well as upgrades to the popular Helm Master EX system, including a new joystick and binnacle design for 2023.
“The XTO 450 allows boaters to enjoy the convenience and ease of operation associated with the XTO line – in addition to more torque and power,” said Ben Speciale, President, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “In addition, Yamaha’s esteemed F200 and F150 DEC and Mechanical outboards now feature integrated electro-hydraulic steering for the 2.8L DEC models and integrated hydraulic steering for the 2.8L and 2.7L mechanical models. Helm Master EX also gets new features that take boat control to a new level in 2023. In a nutshell, these new products all work to elevate boating experiences for customers.”
XTO Offshore 450
One of the key features of the new XTO Offshore 450, aside from the ample horsepower, is a redesigned simultaneous charging system that generates impressive amperage while at low RPMs. This means onboard systems like gyro stabilizers, air conditioning, and sound systems can easily be powered via the 96 amps generated per engine while in neutral. The amperage is also stackable in multi-engine configurations, meaning up to 480 net amps at idle are possible in a quint outboard setup. The new Phase Angle Control charging system is powerful enough to even eliminate the need for an on-board generator in many applications. The system also prioritizes charging to the starting batteries, keeping them charged and ready for action at all times.
Other standout features include raised chrome graphics on the cowling, an optional propeller light on the exterior casing (used in conjunction with Helm Master EX), and a standard TXO EC 'Extra Cup' propeller designed specifically for more 'grab' in conditions where propeller ventilation may occur, like during extreme torque or extreme weather and water conditions.
The XTO Offshore 450 will also be equipped with Yamaha’s exclusive TotalTilt feature for faster engine tilting. When enabled, it allows complete tilt up from any position with a double-push of the “Up” trim/tilt button, or full tilt down (until trim ram contact) by the same double push of the “Down” trim/tilt button. A warning horn will sound just before and during both movements. Movement and the horn can be stopped anywhere in between by pressing the tilt button again.
The horsepower generated in the new XTO Offshore 450 will come via Yamaha's tried-and-true 4-stroke DOHC V8 - 32 valve powerhead at 12.3:1 compression. The engine generates a total of 5559 cm3 of displacement with a throttle range up to 6000 rpm.
F200/F150 Outboards
Yamaha’s 4-cylinder 2.8 liter F200 and F150 DEC and Mechanical outboards will feature a newly designed look and integrated steering for 2023. They will be available with a traditional gray cowling and will feature Yamaha's plug-and-play steering system that was first unveiled with the XTO 425.
Both the new F200 and F150 will showcase Yamaha's new electro-hydraulic steering system that uses less rigging component space. The electric helm employs steer-by-wire technology to engage the under cowling Steering Control Unit and to control the hydraulic pump, tucked neatly into the bracket, outside of the boat. Boats equipped with electro-hydraulic steering models enjoy smooth, responsive power steering that’s compatible with the complete Helm Master EX system, including the Full Maneuverability Joystick package. The compact construction of integrated Electro-Hydraulic Steering also provides more bilge, splash well and transom space than conventional steering systems.
The redesigned F200 and F150 DEC models will also benefit from the integration of Yamaha’s TotalTilt feature for faster, easier engine tilting.
Helm Master EX Updates
New Helm Master EX updates for 2023 will include several standout features to make control and connectivity even easier. The new binnacle control unit is noticeably smaller than previous generations, but for upgrades/swap outs the baseplate covers the same surface area so there won't be any exposed holes or unsightly lines from the changeover. The control unit itself will also be available with either black or chrome accents to allow users to match the hardware to their boat's aesthetic.
An integrated bow thruster control button has also been added to the unit, as well as 9 lighting options for the joystick so owners can match the accent lighting to other systems lights around the helm. If you are operating a boat with both a binnacle control and joystick, the colour selected will be matched between both units. When operated, joystick movement will control lateral pivoting in unison with the stern engine(s). It can also be configured for independent bow thruster control.
It should be noted, however, that the integrated bow thruster will be available through the Helm Master EX joystick for twin or triple outboard configurations only. It will also only be available through boat builder installation on new boats and will be available in spring 2023.
The new Helm Master EX can also be integrated as a joystick-only station for a docking-specific side station on larger boats, or for those who have a secondary station to improve line of sight when maneuvering in tight quarters.
The new binnacle will also have Start/Stop buttons on the unit itself, rather than as separate switches that must be installed into the helm console. The buttons will be available on both the standard and side station units.
You can watch the full 2023 product unveiling in the video below:
