Malibu launches new Monsoon V8s packing up to 430hp
Two new 5.3-litre engines built around a Chevy small-block V8 to power future generations of Malibu’s boatsMalibu Boats has revealed a more powerful and fuel-efficient generation of Monsoon V8 inboard engines tested in one of the world’s harshest environments -- Australia.
The new Monsoon M5DI and M6DI direct-injection engines are built around a GM-sourced L83 5.3-litre small block V8 that, up until now, has powered generations of Chevrolet-badged light trucks.
The engines are hardened for the marine environment, service areas are made easier to reach, and while performance goes up, fuel use goes down.
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The all-alloy engine is fitted with technology including direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver performance over a wider band of revs, and more fuel economy ultimately allowing owners to spend even more time out on the water.
Low-end pulling power
The M5DI engine produces 360hp at 5600rpm and 542Nm at a low 3800rpm. The M6DI version of the engine produces 430hp at 5600rpm and 624Nm at 3800rpm.
“Together with their partners, Malibu engineers have spent thousands of hours designing and testing over 200 custom parts to make what will set the new standard for inboard engines,” Malibu said.
“The world-first Front End Accessory Drive is at the root of the new direct-injection engines’ reliability, making everything in the engine simpler.”
Made for watersports
Malibu Boats Australia general manager Price Taylor said the engines were optimsed for watersports.
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“When you’re pulling a water skier, wakeboarder or wake surfer, with a boat full of ballast and friends, you need to reach peak torque early to get your rider out of the hole quickly and consistently,” Taylor said.
“That’s what these new engines have been specifically designed to do.”
Sound investment
Malibu said the Monsoon engines were also extremely muted, with the higher 11:1 compression ratio along with acoustic foam and cast iron manifolds combining to make the quietest engines on the tow boat market.
“And to cap it all off, the new engines are the greenest engines the tow boat industry has seen, offering the lowest emissions on the market and best in class fuel economy thanks to direct injection technology,” Malibu said.
The new M5Di and M6Di direct injection engines have been available in Australia since January, with the M5Di standard in most Malibu Wakesetter models. Owners still have the option of upgrading to the 6.2-litre Monsoon M6Di.
The engine will be on display at the Melbourne Boat Show, which kicks off on Thursday.
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