Suzuki DF300
A new saltwater-proof design from the skeg to the powerhead, which displaces 245.6 cubic inches, at 300 horsepower this is the most powerful four-stroke outboard yet. (But it weighs only 2 pounds per horsepower!) A new lower unit reduces drag by 18 percent; a new electronic throttle and shift eliminates the need for cables. Digital multi-port electronic fuel injection delivers the lowest fuel consumption in its class (8 gallons per hour cruising at 31 mph at 4,000 rpm; 1 gph trolling at 1,200 rpm). Top speed with a single engine on a 24-foot offshore fisherman is around 50 mph. And if your boat can take the power, its narrow 55-degree V-6 block makes it practical to mount two or more together. A 54-amp 12-volt alternator charges two batteries simultaneously via independent circuits.

The engine I tested had terrific acceleration and lists for $23,625 (25-inch shaft) to $24,940 (30-inch shaft). Electronic throttle and shift kit is $1,334 per engine. 714-572-1490; suzukimarine.com --B.S.