Test / Suzuki 250 hp Kuro, matte black for performance

© Christophe Ponchant Powder Point Media

Suzuki launches a new 250 hp engine for thrill-seekers. This engine is designed to be both efficient and dynamic for performance-oriented craft. We tested it on an Iron 707. Find out...

Suzuki launches a new version of its 250 hp outboard. It's the DF 250 "Kuro". Kuro means "deep black" in Japanese. To illustrate this, the engine comes in a matte black finish reminiscent of that used on super sports cars.

A Super Sport version named Kuro

This 250 hp outboard is identical to the US version, over there called 250 Super Sport. This name, more eloquent than Kuro, indicates that the engine is intended for sporty programs. To this end, the 4-liter, 24-valve V6 block has been upgraded with new electronic mapping that increases the rev range from 5,700 rpm to 6,000 rpm. The air intake grilles on the hood have also been reworked to provide better air supply and engine cooling. The rest of the engine's features are identical to those of the DF250.

A redesigned baseplate

In addition to the new gills, the most visible part of this transformation is the baseplate, with a reworked housing shape similar to that found on racing outboards, to improve sailing performance and avoid cavitation. What's more, the centreboard at the very bottom of the baseplate is asymmetrical. This provides better steering stability at low speeds, but above all eliminates the adjustable centreboard usually found.

Clean pick-up and ramp-up

We were able to test the engine mounted on the hull of an Iron 707. Despite a propeller that could be optimized, we recorded a top speed of 46 knots. Lift-off was at 2500 rpm, with a speed of 15 knots. But what really sets this engine apart is its ability to pick up speed and rev quickly. With its electric drive, it's easy to operate with the fingertips, and will be particularly well suited to light craft, such as semi-rigid fishing boats.

Available for our transoms

This engine is available at ?29,990 incl. VAT, without accessories or propeller. Please note that this engine can only be fitted as a single-engine model (not as a twin).

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