Suzuki DF325A 325HP Dual Prop Outboard – High Power on Regular Fuel with Dual Prop System

The Suzuki DF325A was hailed by the industry as a true “revolution in innovation” upon its release, because it addressed a key challenge: providing over 300 HP of power that runs on regular fuel. While most big outboards (including Suzuki’s own DF350A) require high-octane gasoline, the DF325A is engineered to achieve its impressive output using standard 87 AKI (approx 91 RON) fuel without knocking or performance loss. This is achieved by slightly retuning the compression (a bit lower than the 350A’s) and meticulously controlling the combustion process. The dual injectors in each cylinder are still present, ensuring optimal atomization and cooling of the fuel charge to prevent knock even on regular gas.

The DF325A inherits most of the features of its “bigger brother.” The contra-rotating propellers remain front and center – they give the 325 the same incredible maneuverability and thrust advantages. Even with a slightly lower peak horsepower, the torque curve of the DF325A is virtually on par with the 350A, especially in the midrange – which is critical for pushing heavy boats. This means a boat with a DF325A will perform very similarly to one with the 350 in most situations, save perhaps the absolute top-end speed.

A huge plus of the DF325A is that owners in regions where high-octane fuel is hard to find or costly can operate this engine more easily and economically. For charter or commercial boats that refuel frequently and in large volumes, being able to use standard unleaded can reduce operating costs significantly. Furthermore, when you’re in remote areas or smaller marinas, regular gas is always available whereas premium might not be – the DF325A gives you the flexibility to keep going wherever without fuel worries.

In construction and electronics, the DF325A is nearly identical to the DF350A. It features the same dual louver air intake to keep water out, and the same dual water pickup cooling for superior temperature control. It has a beefy alternator (just over 41A max) that, in real terms, can deliver about 55% of its capacity at idle (~23A) and full output at higher rpm – ideal for boats with multiple electronics or trolling motor batteries to maintain.

The DF325A also uses Suzuki Precision Control (digital fly-by-wire throttle and shift) for seamless operation, and is compatible with Suzuki’s Keyless Start System, putting it on par with the DF350A in terms of user convenience at the helm. Selective Rotation – the ability to switch an engine from standard to counter rotation – is also present, meaning if you have twin DF325As, either can be configured as a left-hand or right-hand unit as needed.

In practice, the DF325A proves that it can run neck-and-neck with the DF350A on most boats up to a certain load. For example, tests indicate that on a 28-30 foot boat, twin DF325As provide virtually the same top speed and acceleration as twin DF350As, with only a slight difference, but with the advantage of using regular gas. Fuel economy at cruise is often cited as among the best in class – the lean burn technology allows these big engines to sip surprisingly little fuel at 3000-4000 RPM, which translates to longer range and fewer fuel stops for the operator.

Applications: The Suzuki DF325A is perfect for large RIBs, patrol boats, commercial tour or work vessels where reliability and fuel availability are critical. For professional offshore fishing boats that log hours far from port each day, the DF325A offers rock-solid power but also the flexibility to refuel from any harbor with standard gas. Many marine rescue services and government boats have shown interest in this model for its easier fuel logistics. Twin DF325As can even replace inboard diesels in some cases, offering a quieter and cleaner alternative.

In essence, the Suzuki DF325A delivers nearly everything great about the DF350A – dual props, high displacement, cutting-edge tech – packaged in a more economical and fuel-flexible form. That makes this engine especially valuable for those who want flagship performance without being tied to premium fuels, and it solidifies Suzuki’s position as an innovator in the “high power” outboard category.