Mercury 250HP CXL FourStroke Outboard DTS

This is the digital-shift edition of the Mercury 250HP CXL: a 25-inch-shaft V-8 with Mercury's DTS electronic controls and counter rotation available.

Fit before you buy

Measure your transom for the 25-inch shaft rather than assuming it matches an older motor you are replacing, and decide whether you need the counter-rotation option for a twin installation on one side of the pair. DTS requires Mercury's digital helm hardware, so verify compatibility with your existing rigging or new-build plan before ordering.

What ships, what you add

Mercury packs an owner's manual, a tool kit, and mounting hardware with every unit. The propeller is not included; order one to suit your gearing. The full-throttle band runs 5200 to 6000 RPM. The motor tips the scale at 527 lbs. It carries a 4.6 displacement rating.

Q: How does this differ from the cable-steered CXL? Steering and shift are electronic here instead of mechanical cables.

Q: Does the included tool kit cover routine maintenance? It's standard equipment with the motor; pair it with your own tools for anything beyond basic upkeep.

Both EFI and power trim and tilt are fitted. Mercury Marine backs it with a 3-year warranty. A dealer or rigger can confirm fitment if your boat is unusual or heavily modified. That is cheap insurance against a rigging surprise after delivery. Steering feel differs noticeably between cable and electronic systems, so test either type before committing if you have the chance. Rigging shops see far more shaft-length returns than horsepower-related ones, year after year.