The Buster L It has been part of the Finnish aluminium boat manufacturer’s range since 1994 and is one of the most popular motorboats in its class in Finland, Sweden and Norway. The new, fourth generation of the model will be unveiled for the first time from 13 to 16 August 2026 at the Uiva Flytande In-Water Boat Show in Helsinki. Further presentations will follow at the Karlshamn Boat Show in Sweden, at Allt På Sjön in Gustavsberg (28 to 30 August) and at Båter i Sjøen in Oslo (28 to 31 August).
Four versions for different applications
The new Buster L is available in four versions, which differ in the layout of the consoles and seats. The basic L1 version features a single console mounted on the side. The Lcc model is fitted with a centre console. The L2 variant comes with two consoles and offers passengers on the rear bench additional protection from the weather. The Lx version has separate seats for the driver and front passenger, as well as space for five people behind the windscreen.
The dashboard has been completely redesigned. The Buster Q Smart Display, with a 10-inch screen, is now positioned on the right-hand side of the dashboard in a location which, according to the manufacturer, is more ergonomic. The display, which features a floating mount, comes as standard on the Lx version and can be ordered as an option for the other models. All dashboards are fitted with USB-C and USB-A ports for charging mobile devices, as well as a separate 12-volt socket.
More compact exterior dimensions with more interior space
The boat measures 5.12 metres in length and 1.95 metres in width. This makes the hull one centimetre shorter and four centimetres narrower than that of the previous model. Despite the reduced external dimensions, the shipyard claims that the redesign will result in larger internal dimensions. All versions are self-draining, so that rainwater drains away automatically and the boat can remain moored at the jetty.
The heavier Lx version can accommodate outboard engines with a power output of up to 60 PS (44 kW), whilst the other models are designed for a maximum of 50 PS (37 kW). According to the manufacturer, the boat is expected to reach a top speed of around 28 knots when fitted with the most powerful engine. The single-console models weigh 459 kilograms without an engine, the L2 version weighs 468 kilograms and the Lx version weighs 510 kilograms. The maximum payload for all versions is 572 kilograms, including passengers and equipment.
Aluminium hull with buoyancy chambers
The hull is made from the aluminium alloy AW 5754, which was developed specifically for boatbuilding and is corrosion-resistant. The floor has a thickness of four millimetres. The deck is made of non-slip, textured aluminium. All models are considered unsinkable, as just under 700 litres of buoyancy material are incorporated into the hull. This also acts as insulation for the boat.
Fishing Edition with fishing kit
Buster offers a Fishing Edition for all four versions. This specification includes a bow casting platform with a fishing seat, as well as a flat hatch in the stern, which replaces the storage compartment for the cover and transforms the stern into a large casting platform. A mount on the bow accommodates an electric bow motor.
Fuel tank and equipment options
The Lx version comes with a fixed 53-litre fuel tank as standard. For the other models, this tank can be ordered as a factory-fitted option. Alternatively, a portable tank can be used. This solution is suitable for areas without a refuelling point on the water, whilst the permanently fitted tank can be filled directly at refuelling stations.
Available options include EVA flooring, a harbour cover, a water-ski pole, a rod box, rod holders and seat cushions. The Buster Q Display can be upgraded with sonar, a fishfinder and the Guard Package. The latter allows you to monitor your position, bilge and battery voltage via the Buster app on your smartphone.
The Comfort Edition package includes seat cushions for the single-console models. The twin-console versions also come with a cover that covers the rear section of the boat. The upper section of the hull sides can be ordered in five colours: Black Satin Metallic, Black Satin, Grey Blue Satin Metallic, White Pearl Satin and Signature Red. Grey hull sides and an epoxy primer on the floor are also available as factory options.
Production and delivery
Production of the new Buster L is already underway at the factory in Ähtäri, Finland. The first boats are due to be delivered to customers in autumn 2026. The manufacturer has not yet announced any prices.
Technical specifications:
- Length: 5.12 m
- Width: 1.95 m
- Seating: 6
- Maximum payload: 572 kg
- Maximum speed: approx. 28 knots
- Fuel tank: 53 litres
- Fuselage material: AW 5754 Aluminium
- Floor thickness: 4 mm
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology