MerCruiser 4.5-Liter Engine Earns Innovation Award

The latest addition to Mercury Marine’s MerCruiser line of stern-drive engines, the 4.5L, which was introduced earlier this year (read the story), was named the top innovative product in the “Inboard Engine” category yesterday at the International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference known as IBEX in Tampa, Fla. The news was announced in a press release from the Fond du Lac, Wis., company.

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Designed completely in house by Mercury Marine, the new MerCruiser 4.5L engine earned an Innovation Award the IBEX event yesterday.

Organized by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and selected by a panel of judges from Boating Writers International, Innovation Awards are presented each year at IBEX, as well as during the Miami International Boat Show.

“We were proud to introduce the next generation of stern-drive technology with this ground-breaking new engine,” said John Pfeifer, the president of Mercury Marine, in the release. “Our new 4.5-liter engine is a great power source that provides features, benefits and technology that make boating more enjoyable and worry-free. This engine was purpose-built for marine use and delivers Mercury’s proven performance, durability and ease of service.”

With a rated output of 250-hp, the MerCruiser 4.5L boasts design innovations such as a long runner scrolled intake manifold and high displacement, which produces an outstanding power-to-weight ratio. This V-6 engine weighs 130 pounds less than a 5.0L V-8 small block, yet provides similar performance. Suitable for use in single- and twin-engine applications compatible with Mercury’s full series of Alpha and Bravo Drives.

The 4.5L V-6 also offers Adaptive Speed Control (ASC), which automatically maintains the set rpm point regardless of load or condition changes, such as tight turns, tow sports and lower speeds on plane. The result is increased throttle response and a “sportier” feel for the driver, who no longer has to make continual throttle-control adjustments, according to the press release.

Another benefit of the technology-rich 4.5L MerCruiser engine platform, according to the release, is that it’s the first V-6 stern-drive compatible with SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) for immediate throttle response and smooth shifting throughout the rpm band. Still another option for the 4.5L V-6 with DTS is Joystick Piloting for easier docking and low-speed maneuverability.

Related Story: New MerCruiser 4.5L Engine Boasts Complete Mercury Design/Build