Quintrex 2017 models: Sneak Peek

A bonus for journalists attending the recent Evinrude E-TEC G2 150-200hp outboard engine launch was a preview of upcoming Quintrex models.

The official launch for the 2017 Quintrex range is scheduled for April, 2017, but we were able to sample a couple of prototype Hornets and several pre-release Quintrex models in varying configurations including a whole new cool Quintrex craft called the Freestyler.

QUINTREX YELLOWFIN SOUTHERN EDITION
The largest of the new boats on display was the new Quintrex Yellowfin 7400 Southern Edition. This model shares the same 19 degree deep-V plate-alloy hull as the current Yellowfin flagship model, but the hardtop and saloon area has been enlarged to provide additional weather protection. The boat was also equipped with a re-designed rear bait-rigging station with tackle drawers and shelving.

The striking black Yellowfin test rig was powered by a single 225hp Evinrude G2 E-TEC outboard in the extra-longshaft configuration and proved swift and manoeuvrable on the water.

NEW FISHABOUTS
Among the regular Quintrex models the Fishabout runabout range is set to be expanded with at least two new boats. During the media launch we were able to step aboard new 570 and 610 series models. Both are larger than the current range-topping 530 Fishabout.

Like the smaller Fishabouts, the new 570 model has a traditional forward windscreen runabout layout, but the boat is bigger, wider, and more spacious inside. The pre-release model presented for testing was finished in a stunning deep blue colour, with a matching coloured Evinrude E-TEC G2 150hp H.O. outboard.

CUDDY CABIN
The new 610 series Fishabout differs from its siblings in that it has a cuddy cabin layout instead of a runabout configuration. Beneath the low profile alloy deck there is a carpeted seat/berth area, with a foredeck access and ventilation hatch overhead.

At a glance, the 610 Fishabout looks identical to the similar sized Quintrex Lazeabout, however, the new boat lacks some of the seating, features (such as the walk-through windscreen/deck) and creature comforts of the Lazeabout, which is targeted at family boat buyers.

With its sparser fit-out, huge, uncluttered rear cockpit and potentially lower package price, the Fishabout model will appeal to serious anglers looking for a no-nonsense, functional fishing boat.

EXPANDED RENEGADE RANGE
New open console boats are being added to the Quintrex 2017 range, too. The first of what looks likely to be several new, and larger Renegade models was available to sample, powered by a 130hp Evinrude E-TEC outboard.

In the current Quintrex Renegade open fishing boat range there are about a dozen models with open tiller, side and centre console configurations.

The biggest of the current Renegades is a 5.2m, 520 series model. The new pre-release model is a much larger 570 series side console, which leads us to believe that we may also see a second new Renegade released to slot in between the 520 and 570. Time will tell.

We would also expect the new Renegades to be available with both a side and a centre console configuration and to have large bow and stern casting decks, but with ample cockpit freeboard in the recessed helm cockpit area.

STEALTH HORNETS COMING
A new series of Quintrex Hornet Stealth models looks set to be released this coming April. If the prototypes are anything to go by, the new boats should attract plenty of interest from bream, bass and barra anglers.

Whilst the new Stealth Hornets are not confirmed for production at this stage, we understand that most Quintrex dealers are excited by the new boats and keen to have them added to the range. Expect to see them released next month.

The two prototype Stealths we have now seen share the pickle-fork bow shape and hull bottoms of the regular Hornet models, but have a new deck layout, similar to what you might see on a US bass boat.

The consoles in the new models for example are smaller, lower, more compact, and more stream-lined.

The boats also have three low-set bucket chairs across the centre of the cockpit, between extended bow and stern casting decks.

Cleverly, the rear deck on the new boats has a hinged board which rotates forward and over the helm chairs to expand the size of the rear casting deck.

There are plenty of other great new features on these Stealth models, but we will expand on these following the official launch of the 2017 Quintrex range.

More information and specifications for all of the new Quintrex models will be available in April. What we have shown here is merely a teaser of what’s to come. We are reliably informed that there are some very exciting new Quinnies still under wraps, including a brand new series of boats.

The first of these is a new bowrider called the Freestyler in 530 and 610 sizes to start. Designed with a striking new "pickle-fork" bow shape and an all-new Apex series Quintrex hull, the Freestyler 610 was on display at the 2017 Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo. Watch this space for more information.

More at
Quintrex.