2018 Yamaha F300 V6 4.2L Digital 25 F300XCA Outboard Motor

At the top of Yamaha's 4.2-liter V6 range, the digitally controlled F300XCA is rated 300 hp on a 25-inch shaft and settles at 562 lbs dry, with Yamaha citing up to a 19 percent faster cruise-rpm speed against other 300-hp four-stroke outboards.

Controls and steering

Digital helm wiring is required for this configuration rather than cable steering, so confirm your console matches before ordering; the mechanical XA version below is the one to pick if your boat was never wired for digital gauges. Tilt on this trim reaches 67 degrees.

Reliability features

Alternator capacity on this block runs well above many other V6 four-strokes, useful if you're powering a full suite of electronics, and trolling speed can be held well below idle in fine steps for working bait patiently. Cooling draws from more than one inlet point on the lower unit rather than a single pickup, and trim runs between -3 and +16 degrees. Buyers comparing this against the mechanical XA version below should weigh the touchscreen gauge and theft-deterrent extras against the lower price of cable steering.

This model's warranty gives pleasure and government buyers three years apiece, with commercial buyers getting a single year. Get in touch about matching a propeller and control cables to your boat and intended use before you place an order, especially if you're coming from a smaller engine on the same hull.