Mercury MerCruiser 4.5L sterndrive engine launches at London Boat Show

Published on: 08/01/2015

The MerCruiser 4.5L sets new standards for acceleration and overall performance, thanks to design innovations such as a long runner scrolled intake manifold and high displacement, which produces an outstanding power-to-weight ratio. The V6 engine weighs 59kg less than a 5.0L, V8 small block, yet provides similar performance.

The 4.5L also offers Adaptive Speed Control (ASC), which automatically maintains the set rpm regardless of load or condition changes, such as tight turns, tow sports and lower speeds on plane. The result is increased throttle response and a “sportier” feel for the driver, who no longer has to make continual throttle control adjustments.

The engines newly designed rear-facing throttle body, anti-whistle throttle plate, engine cover and mounts, lightweight flywheel, fuel supply module, and structural oil pan all work together to deliver superior idle and smoothness as well as low noise and vibration for a better boating experience.

The MerCruiser 4.5L is a technology-rich platform that delivers the world’s first V6 sterndrive that is compatible with SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) for immediate throttle response, and smooth shifting throughout the rpm band. An option for the 4.5L, V6 with DTS is Joystick Piloting, providing the ultimate in docking experience and manoeuvrability.

Ease of maintenance was taken into account when designing the MerCruiser 4.5L, eliminating the need for the traditional 20-hour service. The engine also boasts a ‘season-extending’ drain system that can keep you boating during the transition times between seasons.

Available in single or twin installations and compatible with Mercury’s full series of  Alpha and Bravo drives, the MerCruiser 4.5L offers ultimate flexibility to boat builders, marine dealers and consumers by offering the ideal propulsion package for a wide range of boats from runabouts to cruisers.

The 4.5L, 250hp MerCruiser sterndrive engine has been named the top innovative product in its category at the International Boat builders’ Exhibition and Conference in Tampa, Florida. Brady Kay, Editor of Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine and one of the innovation judges, perhaps summed up the engine’s purpose-built nature when he said, “Auto engines are for highways.”

“The Mercury MerCruiser 4.5L has many advantages over the old GM based 5.0L and the 4.3L which it has replaced, offering an engine that is a more modern, smaller and lighter. The engine is ideal for new builds and repower options, and is targeted at recreational owners of 18ft – 24ft runabouts and sports boats and 27ft to 29ft twin engine cruiser type boats,” comments Robert Plant, General Manager, Marine Inboard Division.

Mercury MerCruiser is distributed in the UK by E. P. Barrus Ltd through a network of authorised sales and service dealers.

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