McLaren Engineering and Honda Marine have teamed up to introduce the McLaren Performance M300 outboard. It's an enhanced version of the 3.6-liter V-6 Honda BF250, ideal for boats 24 feet and larger. Sporting a distinct McLaren branding, the M300 will be available for new boat builds starting in 2025, though pricing details are still under wraps.
The 300-hp outboard market offers a variety of options, including Mercury V-8s and Yamaha and Suzuki V-6s. Now, the McLaren Performance M300 joins this competitive scene as a souped-up version of the Honda BF250. It's worth noting that it doesn't carry the Honda label; instead, it proudly displays a unique McLaren Performance logo.
Founded in 1969, McLaren Performance Technologies initially catered to Bruce McLaren Motor Racing. Acquired by Linamar Corporation in 2003, McLaren Engineering continues to excel in engine innovations, as evidenced by its supply of components for Honda cars.
To upgrade the BF250, McLaren has applied an enhanced ECU, innovative fuel injectors, and a more powerful camshaft, resulting in a 50 hp increase without added weight. The M300 weighs 143 pounds less than its 5.0-liter V-8 counterpart and promises impressive fuel efficiency, achieving around 3.5 mpg at cruising speeds.
Underneath the McLaren logo, the M300 maintains Honda's reliability, offering a five-year warranty with full service support from Honda Marine dealers. This aligns it with the hot-rod outboard trend, similar to Yamaha's SHO and Mercury's ProXS.
With its distinctive style and performance improvements, the McLaren Performance M300 is set to make waves this spring. If you own one, you can proudly say you have a McLaren on the water.
Summary: McLaren and Honda Marine have unveiled the Performance M300, a powerful outboard engine combining Honda’s V6 foundation with McLaren's engineering flair. It will hit the market in 2025.
