GM Marine’s new 4.3L V-6 Small Block engine for sterndrive applications is a lightweight, technologically advanced and efficient performer designed to deliver excellent performance while using less fuel than many V-6 marine engines.
It is based on the fifth generation of General Motors’ legendary Small Block architecture, which was introduced 60 years ago and powers through the 21st century with advanced performance- and efficiency-optimizing technologies, including variable valve timing and direct fuel injection.
“The Small Block was adapted for marine use soon after it was introduced and we have worked for decades with marinizers to refine the engine family for the unique requirements of powerboats,” said Gary Halligan, GM Marine engineering.
“The new Gen V Small Block architecture represents an unprecedented investment in engine design, which leveraged the depth and breadth of GM’s powertrain resources to bring to the market one of the most efficient, powerful and technologically advanced engines in the marine industry.”
The new Gen V 4.3L V-6 shares the same design attributes as the Small Block engine family found in the latest Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe and Suburban trucks and SUVs, as well as the high-performance Corvette Stingray.
“Allowing the marine industry to take advantage of proven automotive technology is a win for the boating world,” said Patrick Koenigknecht, GM director of Marine Original Equipment sales. “Direct injection and continuously variable valve timing technologies are perfect for the marine industry because they result in more power and better fuel efficiency – and the customer benefits from factory-proven reliability and durability built on years of tough truck engine design, development and testing.”
Volvo Penta is a marinizer already working with the new Gen V engine.
“We’ve trusted GM engines for years and want to get the latest technology to the customer as soon as possible,” said Ron Huiber, president, Volvo Penta. “We believe this new engine will help transform the boat industry with its great balance of power and efficiency – and the durability customers have come to rely on for decades.”
Source: GM