The new Mercury four-strokes at 2.5hp (1.8kW) and 3.5hp (2.6kW), are single-cylinder engines displacing 85 cubic centimetres – the highest in their class. Mercury now have complete lines of four-stroke outboards from 2.5hp through to 275hp (202kW) Verado.

The newcomers weigh just 17kg and have a front-mounted carrying handle for easy stowing. There is a fuel shut-off valve for safe transportation.

Other features include water-cooling and thermostatic control for dependable, reliable operation, manual choke for easy starting, integrated 1.3 litre fuel tank to eliminate the need to carry a remote container, and an external oil window which allows you to check the oil level quickly, without pulling out a dipstick.

Propulsion is controlled with a vibration isolated twist-grip throttle on the steering tiller and a side-shift lever for forward and neutral. The tiller rotates 360 degrees for maximum manoeuvrability and the transom bracket has four tilt positions. The 2.5hp model is available in short shaft length (381mm) while the 3.5hp is available in short and long shaft lengths (381mm and 508mm respectively). Both models meet the European emissions regulations.

See the new engines at the London Boat Show, ExCel, 5-14 January 2007 Stand S216.