Marine propulsion manufacturer Mercury has recently added new V6 and V8 turbocharged direct injection (TDi) engine models to its range of marine diesel engines.
Showing their Volkswagen heritage, the TDis are precision designed to be lightweight, quiet and fuel-efficient. Designed for both stern-drive and inboard applications, the focus of each new model is reliability and an improved diesel driving experience.
The TDi 4.2 litre V8 comes with two new power ratings: 250kW and 275kW, with the latter producing 782Nm of torque. The TDi 3.0 litre V6, meanwhile, is available in 170kW and 190kW versions and the all-new engines are fully compatible with Mercury's SmartCraft and digital throttle and shift (DTS) technologies.
The SmartCraft suite of digital technology, including gauges, sensors and computer-controlled features, has been created to make boating easier and to improve safety. The SmartCraft system monitors engine parameters – including oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, total run time, sea water pressure and fuel burn – while also providing a comprehensive diagnostic display that can identify an issue before it becomes serious.
Additionally, Mercury's optional DTS technology improves engine throttle and shift control. It also enables new features, including a cruise control interface when coupled with the new Vessel View 4 or Vessel View 7 screens. With DTS as a base, the Axius joystick control system is now available for the V6 and V8 models in twin installations.
Weighing in at 423 kilograms for a Bravo 3 stern-drive package, the TDi 3.0 litre V6 delivers peak torque at 2,000rpm thanks to its variable geometry turbo (VGT), which means less time to plane and improved acceleration.
The 4.2 litre V8 TDi, meanwhile, features dual VGTs and an increased power rating, yet weighs less than 500 kilograms with a Bravo 3 stern-drive package, boasting considerable acceleration properties with little turbo lag.
Mercury's diesel range is rounded out by the series of QSD engines. Featuring high-pressure common-rail fuel injection systems and performance boosting turbo technology, the engines come in 2.0, 2.8 and 4.2 litre variants, with power ratings from 85kW to 260kW.
