McLaren Performance M300: Honda’s 300-horsepower breakthrough

The McLaren Performance M300 marks a rare crossover between automotive engineering and marine power. Developed jointly by McLaren Engineering, a Linamar Corporation division with deep motorsport roots—and Honda Marine<, the M300 reimagines Honda’s 3.6-litre V6 platform into a 300-horsepower outboard built for performance-minded boaties. Honda has long been known for reliable, efficient four-stroke outboards, while McLaren brings half a century of engine-tuning expertise from Can-Am, IndyCar, and Le Mans programmes. Together, the pair created a powerplant that fills a key gap between Honda’s existing BF250 and BF350 models. At its core, the M300 is a hot-tuned Honda BF250, re-mapped and refined by McLaren’s engineers. The upgrade includes a new camshaft profile, ECU calibration for ignition and knock control, and high-flow injectors, all designed to lift mid-range torque and extend the power band without adding bulk. The result is a 300 hp outboard weighing roughly the same as a BF250, giving it one of the best power-to-weight ratios in the 300-class segment. According to Honda, the engine achieves around 3.5 mpg at cruise on 90-octane fuel — impressive for an engine built to push heavier fibreglass hulls and offshore rigs. Beyond performance, the M300 retains Honda’s trademark dependability. The engine features VTEC variable valve timing, Programmed Fuel Injection, and Honda’s Intelligent Shift and Throttle (iST) digital control system for smooth handling and plug-and-play integration. A dual-channel induction system and two-pass cooling improve long-term durability, backed by Honda’s five-year non-declining warranty. The styling sets it apart. Instead of Honda branding, the cowl wears the new McLaren Performance logo, marine blue with accents referencing Bruce McLaren’s Kiwi heritage, a nod to both innovation and history. The McLaren Performance M300 is distributed exclusively through Honda Marine’s dealer network. It will feature on new OEM builds from selected manufacturers beginning with the 2025 model year, with dealer-order availability expected shortly thereafter. For Kiwi boaties, that means a fresh option in the mid-power range, combining Honda’s bulletproof reliability with McLaren’s racing-bred engineering. A serious engine with a serious nameplate, and one that finally brings a bit of Formula 1 flair to the marina.