What's Powering The Open 232? || Yamaha Engine Options
The Sportsman Open 232 offers a variety of engine options ranging from 225HP to 300HP, with choices from both Yamaha and Mercury. This guide breaks down the available configurations, comparing features like mechanical vs. digital controls, hydraulic vs. electric steering, and performance benefits for different boating activities. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective setup or high-performance power for watersports, this overview will help you select the best engine package for your needs.
The Open 232 is one of our most popular models among the Open series, as it’s a great size for most families and easy to operate and trailer. There are many engine packages available for this model, ranging from 225HP to 300HP.
Yamaha’s offerings range from 250HP to 300HP. The first in the lineup is the 250XB, which is a great price point as it offers mechanical shift and traditional hydraulic steering, yet still boasts Yamaha’s extremely reliable 4.2L V6. The next engine is the 250XCB, which features digital controls with traditional hydraulic steering. Stepping up to digital controls not only provides great precision when shifting but also includes integrated speed control, neutral hold, and start/stop features. Another unique option from Yamaha is the VF250XB, which is the Super High Output model of the 4.2L V6. This engine is ideal for those who will primarily be pulling skiers, wakeboarders, or tubers, as it delivers tremendous torque for getting people up on plane quickly, along with excellent top-end performance for long runs to the next ski cove or fishing hole. Lastly, Yamaha offers both the 250 and 300 in an XSB configuration, which includes digital controls as well as Yamaha’s proprietary fully integrated electric steering. This feature makes steering effortless and allows for compatibility with Yamaha’s autopilot and Helm Master features if that’s something you’re interested in.
For Mercury, the 225 V6 with the conventional mid-section is an excellent price-point option that includes everything you need to get on the water. The 225 V6 offers mechanical controls as well as traditional hydraulic steering. This package is similar to Yamaha’s 250XB, providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for boaters looking for a straightforward setup. Next in Mercury’s lineup are the 250 and 300 V8 models, both featuring conventional mid-sections. The primary difference—aside from power—is that the 300 comes with digital controls. These are both great options that provide extra punch out of the hole, making them beneficial for those who plan on pulling skiers or tubers, or regularly running with multiple passengers.
Powering your new Open 232 can be a daunting task, but we hope this helps you select the engine package best suited for your needs.
Happy Boating!