Mercury launches 'Next Generation' of OptiMax

Mercury OptiMax has a resume most products could only dream about. World's first direct-fuel-injected two-stroke outboard. World's most popular DFI outboard. Recognized as having the "Highest in Customer Satisfaction With Two-Stroke Outboard Engines" in 2006 by J.D. Power and Associates.

Improved sound level and quality
Now, Mercury Marine announces the introduction of the next generation of OptiMax engines. The upgrades to the lineup make what many call the best DFI engine ever built. These enhancements vary by model bin include such things as improved sound level and quality and new styling, plus a new gearcase on the 3.0 liter family members. There are a dozen OptiMax models ranging from 75 to 300 horsepower, so there is an OptiMax engine built to fit any application from a mid-size aluminum boat or pontoon to the biggest tournament offshore fishing boat. The various models are grouped in families of 1.5, 2.5 and 3.0 liters, plus the 3.2 liter "Stroker" 300XS just introduced by Mercury Racing.

Focus on key customer attributes
During the development process for the new generation of OptiMax, Mercury product development and engineering teams focused heavily on key customer attributes, such as durability, reliability, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and overall ease of operation. Mercury OptiMax Platform Manager Mark Klossner said that the decision to make changes to the top DFI in the industry was not made lightly. "While the other achievements we've made with the engines are great, dependability and reliability were at the top of everyone's minds during the design process. The OptiMax has an excellent reputation in the marketplace and we intend to keep it that way." Mercury will begin production of the new OptiMax engines during late summer of 2006.

Highest ranked DI two-stroke engine
Mercury was the highest ranked DI two-stroke engine in the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Marine Engine Competitive Information StudySM. Study based on responses from a total of 12,255 owners of 2004 and 2005 model year boats registered between June 1, 2004 and May 31, 2005.

Homepage: www.mercurymarine.com

More news from the marine markets