Evinrude reveals the G2
Category: press release
Jun 16th, 2014 by OutdoorsFIRST
Modified Jun 16th, 2014 at 12:00 AM
Nearly 11 years ago Evinrude released the E-TEC engine to the world. While some minor changes have been made over this time, the E-TEC has remained mostly the same. However, this past weekend at a media and dealer event in Milwaukee, Wis., Evinrude unveiled the newest generation of outboards – the E-TEC G2.
Probably the most noticeable thing about the new G2 is its bold new look. But make no mistake; this isn’t simply a facelift of the original E-TEC. The G2 is actually Evinrude’s first completely new product in 38 years. From engine to prop the G2 was crafted from scratch.
Part of the new look the G2 sports comes from the three panels – top and two sides – that are offered in five different colors to help better match the boat. From there the customer also has the ability to pick from 14 different accent colors. Each side panel attaches to the motor with six screws that allow easy access the engine and make a removal a breeze.
The G2 offers multiple color options. The new engine features PurePower Combustion and a Starboard-Starboard engine design. The gist of these two technologies leads to a more reliable engine, better hole-shot, 15 percent better fuel economy and 20 percent more torque. On top of all that the G2 has 75 percent lower emissions than competitive four strokes. It is their cleanest motor to date.
The G2 midsection.Moving down the motor the next eye-catching feature is the redesigned midsection. This was one of the more appealing features noticed during hands-on inspection. Basically the steering system is now contained within the midsection along with the power trim. The new design eliminates the need for an aftermarket hydraulic steering system needing to be mounted to the transom of the boat. The Dynamic Power Steering system offers three levels of controllable resistance allowing the user to select what best suits their usage. The new midsection leads to a clean mounting area offering more room in the back of the boat for boat companies to make use of that space in future designs. Another cool feature is the added shock absorption system – which is modeled after what is used on excavators – to better protect your investment.
The new ICON Touch Display for the G2.To monitor everything on the G2, Evinrude offers the ICON Touch Display. Not only can you keep track of all standard engine functions but you can also adjust the Dynamic Power Steering setting and alternate between the hand and foot (offered with the engine) throttle.
A 2-gallon oil tank can be found mounted on the engine which eliminates the need for a tank inside the boat. The ICON display has a sweet little display to give you “time to empty” on your oil supply taking the guessing out of when to fill.
The G2 runs the new SLX gear case to help transfer all of the power to the water. The noticeable difference is the straight leading edge that helps to shed weeds and provide better water flow to the intakes. The skeg on the lower unit is an inch longer than before to provide better performance and handling especially in a high jack plate scenario.
To complete the whole package Evinrude even created two propellers specifically for the G2. This is pretty big considering the company has never made a prop that is designed to match the performance the engine is putting out. The RX4 (four blade) and Raker H.O. (three blade) are offered to match any boating situation. Both props are made with Variable Vent Ports to tune hole-shot and acceleration with the twist of a wrench.
Like with the E-TEC, the G2 engine has no break-in period and auto winterization/storage. The difference stops there, however. Evinrude is backing the G2 with a 5-5-5 warranty – five year engine warranty, five year corrosion warranty and 500 hour no dealer-scheduled maintenance.
At this time the G2 engines will be offered from 200 to 300 horsepower.
The G2s are expected to be available sometime this fall, but there will be an opportunity to get out for a test ride much sooner than that. The final stop of the Walmart FLW Tour on Kentucky Lake is presented by Evinrude and test rides of the G2s will be available the week of the event held on June 26-29.