With boats, as with cars, style and design prove are very important criteria for buyers. In addition to price and features, people prefer boats that appeal to the eye. Boat builder Four Winns is determined to appearance in its new models, and for 2012 they’re offering us the Four Winns H210, one of the first models to benefit from the company’s new design philosophy. The result is an outstanding boat.

With a total length of 21.4 feet (6.5 m) and beam of 8.5 feet (2.59 m), the 2012 Four Winns H210 has the features of an open-deck boat (bowrider). This kind of setup emphasizes space and family activities, as the bow can carry several extra passengers on trips. For those who want the freedom to spend the weekend on board, the builder also has the all-new 2012 Four Winns S215, a model providing the same features plus a cabin with a berth that sleeps two. It’s a great decision on Four Winns’ part as small cuddy boats have become a rare commodity.

Classic Style, Modern Touches
Right from the first glance, the 2012 H210’s sophisticated lines are appealing. The boat benefits from many modern touches, but its lines remain classic nonetheless. There is no way this could be mistaken for a boat from a futuristic film. The H210 takes up several design elements that are typical of the builder’s large-format cruisers. Taken as a whole, it is sober, elegant and tasteful. The boat’s modern feel comes more from several noteworthy elements. Our test model was enhanced by a hull in two tones separated by a wide stripe that ran all around the large swim platform at the stern. It all looks very chic.

A quick look on board makes it clear we are on a quality boat. The attention paid to every detail is plain to see, as is the quality of the materials used. The builder has used a combination of white leather and soft grey fabric, which gives the interior a lovely finish while also creating a feeling of quality. At the stern, the large swim platform makes it easy to indulge in aquatic activities while extending useable space. Many people will appreciate the large sunpad with a detachable portion that facilitates access onboard from the stern.

Well-Designed
The large bench in the stern can easily hold four passengers, while the two bucket seats in the bow are also very comfortable. The last two can pivot, creating a space more conducive to friendly discussions. Meanwhile, the port console, with its sporty steering wheel, modern instruments and white-trimmed leather covering, is definitely one of the most successful in its category.

The Four Winns H210’s designers have succeeded not only in terms of style and layout, but have also paid close attention to the boat’s practical aspects. And there’s no need to juggle with the anchor and its rope. A storage space in the bow lets you put it away quickly and easily. There Is also storage space beneath almost all the seats, as well as on either side of the motor. In short, all space available is used to its maximum potential.

Stable Performance
Our test model came with a mid-range engine, a 5.0 litre Volvo GXi capable of 270 hp paired with an SX sterndrive. The builder also offers a 4.3 litre, 225 hp V6, while the most powerful engine, offered as an option, is a 5.7 litre, 300 hp Volvo V8. You can also enjoy similar power by opting for Mercruiser engines. Though the standard engines are offered at more tempting prices, feel free to opt for more power. The extra driving pleasure is worth the cost, and your fuel consumption won’t necessarily go up, as the engine operates with lower revs.

On the water, the boat’s width and low profile give it excellent stability. Of course, the H210 is still a smaller boat, and it’s not particularly well suited for rough bodies of water, but it performed well during our test despite strong winds. The powerful 5.0 litre V8 engine lets you take off in a bit under 5 seconds. We reached a maximum speed of 48.8 mph (78.5 km/h) with fuel consumption at 22.5 gallons an hour (85 l/h), which is within the normal range for this kind of craft. Most of the time, you’ll find yourself travelling at about 3,000 rpm, which translates into a gratifying speed of 26 mph (42 km/h) and a very reasonable fuel consumption of 6.3 gallons per hour, or 24 l/h. This will let you enjoy the pleasures of boating at a low cost, which is what makes this kind of boat so popular.

The brand-new 2012 H210 makes it perfectly clear that Four Winns is a big-league player. It’s a quality boat that gives you your money’s worth and will definitely retain a good resale value.

Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine