Sea-Doo Unveils All-New 300hp Engine for 2016

Other updates include refined iBR and expanded ErgoLock

It’s not quite the horsepower war of yesteryear, but there certainly is somewhat of a skirmish going on between the OEMs of late. Sea-Doo is the latest to join in, unveiling an all-new 1.6-liter engine rated at a cool 300 hp. That engine, along with expansion of the ErgoLock concept and a second-generation Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR) system, highlight the brand’s news for 2016.

The new engine – the Rotax 1630 ACE (for Advanced Combustion Efficiency) – is the largest ever produced by Rotax. According to Sea-Doo, it’s not only bigger and more powerful, it’s also notably more efficient. A longer stroke increases displacement to 1630.5 cc, a nine percent increase over the previous 1,494cc engine. The engine produces 15% more power. Much of that improvement comes from the engine’s improved efficiency. A new plasma cylinder coating deposits a protective finish on engine cylinder liners to create a durable metallic layer that withstands piston friction forces and provides improved heat transfer. Adding to the power-producing efficiency is a reengineered cooling system that includes an additional heat exchanger and larger, more efficient engine oil cooler. Cooling capacity is increased by 33 percent.

Both the supercharger and intercooler are likewise updated. The former now offers 30% more boost, features double the blades (32) of the previous supercharger, and spins 8% faster. Sea-Doo also claims the design has improved to the point where the supercharger is now maintenance-free, meaning no more costly rebuilds. The intercooler, meanwhile, has noticeably increased in size, features a new design for improved heat transfer, and utilizes long-life aluminum alloys for better corrosion resistance. It’s reportedly 2.2 times more efficient than the previous model.

Finally, new ignition curves match the increased air boost with the output of the larger fuel injectors, culminating in the 15% increase in horsepower.

The 2016 Sea-Doo RXP-X 300 is one of three new models to feature the new 300-horsepower engine.

The engine debuts in three new models, the RXP-X 300, RXT-X 300, and GTX Limited 300.

Those X models also benefit from the full ErgoLock system to help riders harness all that power. The seat features a dramatically narrower midsection to allow riders to use their stronger leg muscles to help stay aboard in hard corners. In addition, angled footwell wedges allow riders to use their feet for leverage. The final piece of the puzzle is the Adjustable Ergonomic Steering setup; aftermarket-style bars which can be changed in both angle and width.

Sea-Doo’s flagship GTX Limited 300 also receives the new Rotax engine. It also benefits from increased storage for 2016.

One particular element of the ErgoLock system – that sculpted saddle with its aggressive contouring – is also now featured on additional models, including the RXT, GTX, and WAKE Pro.

The new model year also brings with it the next generation of iBR. Braking now occurs 20% faster, meaning there’s now very little lag between forward, neutral and reverse. An improved bucket design also reduces some of the bow drop previously experienced at higher speeds.

What else is new? Storage is greatly improved on the GTX, RXT, and WAKE Pro models, a new grip style featuring a flat “palm rest ” debuts throughout the line, and the best-selling Spark receives a new color palette, including an orangy red, lime green, and bright blue.

Sea-Doo’s Spark receives three new colors for 2016, including this bright blue model.

Look for in-depth reviews of the entire Sea-Doo 2016 lineup in the coming months.