Yamaha Debuts 450-hp Outboard

Yamaha Marine introduced a 450-hp version of its XTO Offshore outboard, with increased charging power. The company also announced upgrades to the F150 and F200, as well as new features for Helm Master EX.

“The XTO 450 allows boaters to enjoy the convenience and ease of operation associated with the XTO line, in addition to more torque and power,” Ben Speciale, president of the Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit, said in a statement. “In addition, Yamaha’s esteemed F200 and F150 DEC outboards now feature integrated electro-hydraulic steering for the 2.8-liter DEC models and integrated hydraulic steering for the 2.8-liter and 2.7-liter mechanical models.”

The XTO Offshore 450 has the same 5.6-liter displacement as the 425-hp model, in addition to a three-phase, simultaneous charging system that delivers 96 net amps at lower rpms. Yamaha said it uses its Phase Angle Control components to create a strong magnetic field that gives the XTO 450 enough output to replace an on-board generator. The system prioritizes charging to the starting batteries.

The new outboard also has Yamaha’s TotalTilt, which allows pushbutton up or down tilt adjustments from any position.

As with the original XTO outboard, the new engine was designed from the propeller up, and Yamaha added new XTO EC propellers, including a 27-inch-pitch version.

Yamaha also upgraded the F150 and F200. The Digital Electronic Control and mechanical versions have integrated electro-hydraulic steering that Yamaha describes as a plug-and-play system that uses less rigging space by employing steer-by-wire technology to engage the under-cowling steering control unit. It communicates with a hydraulic pump in the mounting bracket. The system is compatible with Yamaha’s Helm Master EX, including the joystick.

The engines also include TotalTilt.

Mechanical versions of the 2.8-liter F200 and 2.7-liter F150 have a conventional hydraulic helm and lines with an integrated hydraulic cylinder.

Yamaha’s updated Helm Master EX includes a space-saving digital design with new trim and lighting options and available increased bow thruster control. A joystick-only station was also introduced.

The integrated bow thruster control is an on-demand, self-activating feature that works with the joystick to enhance lateral movement and pivoting by automatically engaging the thruster. It’s available for up to triple engine installations, and the independent thruster controls can still be used.

For a second helm, Yamaha offers a joystick station with the CL5 touchscreen, emergency-stop switch, an all start-stop switch and a new wiring harness. An operator can access all joystick and setpoint maneuverability away from the main helm.

The new outboards and Helm Master EX upgrades are expected to be available this spring.