First Drive: Honda BF150 and BF250 2025 Outboards

Announced earlier this year, the upgraded models bring performance refinements along with features to improve durability and usability.

We tested the largest of the L4 and V6 range – the inline four-cylinder (L4) Honda BF150 and the V6 BF250.

These new outboards follow the launch of the flagship V8 BF350 late in 2023.

Across the L4 and V6 lines there are six models: the BF115, BF140 and BF150 in L4 format, and the BF200, BF225, and BF250 in V6.

All have been restyled. The L4s feature subtle updates, while the V6 engines adopt the futuristic look of the BF350 V8.

They are all available in Honda’s Aquamarine Silver Metallic or Grand Prix White finishes.

Before the Australian launch, media were invited to the Gold Coast to sample the outboards fitted to several Whittley trailer boats – including a Whittley SL22 with a single BF250, and a Whittley SL25 with twin BF150s.

Mechanical and digital (drive-by-wire) models are offered across all engine sizes, catering to both repowers and new installations.

The digital models are compatible with Honda’s HD-7 widescreen display and new side-mount iST (Intelligent Shift & Throttle) drive-by-wire control box.

The iST’s five-button panel integrates automatic tilt, trim support, cruise control, and idle/troll speed.

Triple-engine digital setups now include a centre engine control with a dual-lever iST binnacle or third-party joystick such as the Optimus 360 by Dometic.

While core specifications remain the same, several upgrades improve durability, usability and serviceability.

Fuel efficiency is also improved with refinements to Honda’s Lean Burn control system which include a revised oil pan and optimised O2 sensor placement for precise control of air-to-fuel ratio.

The reshaped combustion chamber further enhances efficiency and consistency.

Honda’s tried-and-tested Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) remains across all models. The technology changes the camshaft profile according to engine rpm to deliver a broader, flatter torque curve for a more consistent delivery of power.

The new engines also feature Honda’s BLAST (Boosted Low Speed Torque) which advances ignition timing when gunning the throttle to boost torque for quicker acceleration and fast hole-shots.

Meanwhile, the Lean Burn technology automatically optimises the air/fuel ratio according to engine rpm, load and boat speed.

At 218kg for the lightest L4 and 275kg for the lightest V6, the new Hondas remain heavier than some competitors.

Without the ability to compare the new engines against their predecessors, it was difficult for me to determine whether the refreshed Honda outboards offer any real performance gains, however the new BF250 and twin BF150s felt powerful on the water.

On the Whittley SL22, the BF250 delivered super quick hole-shots and strong top-end performance, reaching 45.3 knots (83.8km/h). The iST digital controls were smooth, light and precise with excellent response through the middle rpm.

It is particularly responsive from around 4500 rpm when Honda’s VTEC kicked in to provide a wave of power and torque to boost performance at the top end of the rpm range.

Economy was best at 4000rpm for this BF250/Whittley SL22 combo where fuel burn was 32L/h at 27.3 knots (50.5km/h) – equal to 1.2L per nautical mile.

The twin BF150s on the SL25 also impressed, though I find their performance harder to gauge compared to single outboards. Having said that, the twin rigs were fast, pushing the boat to a top speed of 40 knots (74km/h).

Smooth, vibration-free and quick to start, they returned a combined fuel consumption of 39L/h at 4000rpm, or 1.6L per nautical mile.

I’d happily have a pair of these excellent outboard motors on the back of my boat. 

Honda’s latest L4 and V6 four-strokes are terrific new outboards that has the performance, fuel efficiency, convenience and technology to rival their competitors.

They are now also more durable, easier to use and easier to service and maintain.

The L4 BF115, BF140, BF150 and V6 BF200, BF225 and BF250 are available now from Honda Marine dealers nationwide in longshaft (20-inch) and extra-longshaft (25-inch) configurations, with the BF250 also offered in ultra-longshaft (30-inch).

Model: Honda BF115/140/150
Engine type: Four-stroke DOHC 16-valve
Cylinders: Inline four-cylinder
Fuel management: EFI
Weight: 218kg (lightest model)
Displacement: 2,354cc
Bore x Stroke: 87mm x 99mm
Maximum output: 115/140/150hp @ 5,500rpm
Shaft length: 508mm (20"), 635mm (25”)
Alternator: 12v 55 amp
Trim method: Power trim/tilt
Gear ratio: 2.14:1
Recommended fuel: Regular unleaded
Counter-rotating: Available BF140/150
Servicing: Annually (or every 100hours after first service)
Emissions rating: CARB 3-star
Warranty: 5 + 2 years (when serviced at a Honda dealer), 3 years commercial.

Model: Honda BF200/225/250
Engine type: Four-stroke SOHC 24-valve
Cylinders: V6
Fuel management: EFI
Weight: 275kg (lightest model)
Displacement: 3,583cc
Bore x Stroke: 89mm x 96mm
Maximum output: 200/225hp @ 5,500rpm, 250hp @ 5,800rpm
Shaft length: 508mm, 635mm (BF200/225/250) + 762mm (BF250)
Alternator: 12v 90 amp
Trim method: Power trim/tilt
Gear ratio: 2.00.:1
Recommended fuel: Regular unleaded
Counter-rotating: Available
Servicing: Annually (or every 100hours after first service)
Emissions rating: CARB 3-star
Warranty: 5 + 2 years (when serviced at a Honda dealer), 3 years commercial
Supplied by: Honda Marine