Suzuki launches new DF200A

At the launch of the new DF200A, Suzuki said the 200hp outboard delivers the kind of performance one would expect from a V6 engine, but from just four cylinders, which means it is the lightest in its class. The new DF200A is also said to benefit from a whole host of high specification features.

Suzuki says until now, boaters have had to deal with the weight of a V6 engine in order to achieve the level of performance they desired. Now, with the introduction of Suzuki’s new DF200A, Suzuki says it's developed a real alternative.

With the DF200A weighing just 225kg, boaters can choose a lighter, in-line four-cylinder engine without sacrificing power or performance. For
those boaters in the market for a new boat and motor, or considering repowering from heavier V6 four-stroke outboards (or even older two
strokes), the new DF200A cprovides an attractive choice in terms of size, weight and fuel economy, not to mention cost of purchase, says Suzuki.

In addition, the DF200A features a water-detection sensor to warn of moisture in the fuel system, a common concern given today’s use of
ethanol-blended fuel.

With the introduction of its Lean Burn Control Technology, Suzuki’s engineers have made fuel-efficient four-stroke outboards more economical. By taking full advantage of the computer control afforded by the 32-bit onboard ECM, and through the use of engine sensors
monitoring everything from engine timing to ambient temperature, the system is able to provide the precise amount of fuel needed throughout
the rev range.

By utilising Lean Burn Control Technology, the DF200A enjoys a significant improvement in fuel economy over Suzuki’s V6 200 horsepower
outboard. In fact, Suzuki Factory Testing indicates a 32.6 per cent improvement at top cruising speeds (5000rpm).

In addition to the DF200A, Suzuki is also introducing the DF200AP, which benefits from even more technology. The DF200AP will be the first
200hp outboard on the market available with Suzuki Precision Control drive-by-wire controls and Suzuki Selective Rotation. With Suzuki
Selective Rotation, dealers can set up engines in either standard or counter rotation, thanks to specially-designed gearing in the lower unit and
the engine’s electronic shift controls.

In addition, DF200AP models will feature a keyless ignition system. This system uses a coded keyfob to transmit an access code to the
engine’s starting system. When the keyfob is within 150cm of the main unit of the starting system, the user simply turns on the ignition
system switch and starts the engine with the push of a button. When it’s time to leave, the user can turn off the engine, switch the ignition
system switch off and head for home.

With a low weight, advanced technology like Lean Burn Control, Knock and O² sensors, as well as performance-enhancing compression and intake specifications, boaters looking for a new 200 horsepower outboard need look no further than the DF200A and DF200AP, claims Suzuki.

The advantages in terms of cost of operation (less weight, improved fuel economy, easier maintenance) and exceptional performance, make
this engine a perfect match for all kinds of boats in the leisure and commercial sectors.

Ryan Lloyd, General Manager for The Haines Group, said: “Once again the engineers have delivered a ground-breaking new outboard motor.

"It delivers outstanding power and has a very satisfying engine note. We are confident that this new model will be hugely popular right
across Australia and New Zealand and it will cement Suzuki’s reputation for producing outstanding large horsepower outboards.”

The new Suzuki DF200A will be available later this year, and the DF200AP will be available in early 2015. Meantime, Evinrude has launched an assault in the same 200-300hp category with a class-leading EVINRUDE E-TEC G2 that we recently experienced during the global release in Milwaukee, WI. And in terms of torque, this V6 200hp will show the four-cylinder Suzuki a thing or two...