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MERCURY’S latest offering – a new line of three-litre diesel engines for sterndrive, inboard and water-jet applications – has been released at the Sydney International Boat Show.
Available in 150hp, 230hp and 270hp variants, these engines have been engineered, developed and tested over the past three years to lead their class in several key attributes:
- Acceleration;
- Reliability;
- Ease of installation and maintenance; and
- Reduction in noise, vibration and harshness.
Mercury’s senior director Global Inboard and Sterndrive Categories Reinhard Burk said, “There is certainly customer demand for diesel power in this key horsepower range.” “So we are excited to offer these new engines. “Mercury already has a class-leading diesel portfolio and these engines add to that with their impressive low-end torque and exceptional durability.”
This new line of engines continues Mercury’s development of diesel motors that comply with tougher diesel emissions standards being introduced in many countries to reduce impact on the environment. Mercury subjected these engines to intensive testing including ‘accelerated life’ tests that exposed the motors to greater rigours than any customer would impose in normal operations.
The engines use a new water-cooled, variable-geometry turbocharger and common-rail fuel delivery to provide exceptional performance and substantial improvements in acceleration and top speeds. Significantly, these new engines are fully compatible with Mercury SmartCraft technologies, so users have instant access to a broad array of engine-related information, as well as maintenance alerts and troubleshooting guidance.
The engines also integrate with Mercury’s Joystick Piloting for Inboards and Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives to give the driver outstanding control and manoeuvrability. “We took an all-new approach to our diesel-engine design for these engines, focusing on consumer priorities in the global marketplace,” Mr Burk said.
“These new FCA-based engines satisfy consumer demand for diesel power that is easy to install, configure and control; making boating easy and intuitive.” The new Mercury Diesel three-litre models carry a factory-backed limited three-year recreational warranty, with an additional two years on selected major components.
A light-duty commercial warranty provides protection for one year or 1500 hours, whichever happens first. “They’re extremely reliable and durable,” Mr Burk said. “And because they’re integrated into Mercury’s global service network, consumers will be able to easily arrange service.”
