Power Surge on the Water

Honda Launches First-Ever V8 Outboard Engine in PH with Propmech

Honda Philippines and long-time partner Propmech Corporation have officially launched the Honda BF350 early this year, the Japanese brand’s first V8 outboard engine, into Philippine waters. It’s the most powerful and technologically advanced marine engine Honda has ever built, and it’s now available for local commercial, private, and government marine users.

The BF350 comes with a 350-horsepower 4-stroke V8 engine, engineered for smoother, quieter, and more efficient operation. It’s packed with Honda’s signature technologies such as VTEC for seamless power delivery and BLAST for faster acceleration—tech that first earned fame in their cars and motorcycles.

“The BF350 embodies our commitment to power, efficiency, and innovation,” said Honda Philippines (former) President Sayaka Arai during the launch. “This is our first V8 outboard engine, and it opens a new chapter in Honda’s marine journey in the Philippines.”

Propmech Corporation, which has been distributing Honda marine engines locally for over a decade, emphasized that the BF350 fits perfectly into the country’s growing demand for high-horsepower marine engines. According to Propmech President Glenn Tong, the engine is ideal for sports cruisers, tourism boats, and government patrol vessels. The engine retails between ₱2 million and ₱2.5 million.

Though designed to take on large watercraft, the BF350 surprisingly runs on ordinary 86-octane gasoline, making it more practical than many expected. It also boasts intelligent features like automatic tilt, cruise control, trim support, and a robust 70A battery charging capacity, ensuring reliability not just for movement, but for onboard electronics as well.

What sets the BF350 apart is how it balances brute power with smooth control. Its 60-degree offset crankshaft minimizes vibration, while Honda’s iST® (Intelligent Shift and Throttle) system and optional joystick controls give captains fingertip-level precision—perfect for docking or maneuvering tight spaces.

During the launch, guests rode a sports cruiser powered by the BF350 to experience its punch and refinement first-hand. Honda also hinted at future models, including BF300 and updated V6 and L4 engines, set to follow this year.

Currently, Honda aims to roll out hundreds of units through existing and upcoming projects with Propmech, with initial deployments already in the pipeline. Globally, the BF350 has already sold over 1,000 units in its first year.

And as for those wondering if this V8 beast guzzles fuel like a muscle car, Honda says it’s 15% to 25% more fuel-efficient than many competitors, delivering “more zoom with less boom.”