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Hickman
Livin’ Large
Recommendations:
Multi-Sport
Family
Combining both performance and luxury, Malibu calls their Sunscape line the intelligent alternative to I/O configurations for water-sports enthusiasts.
The Sunscape 23 offers an incredible array of luxury and comfort features. The wood-grain steering and hand-wrapped, stitched automotive-style dash not only provides great looks, but also a quiet squeak-free ride. The lounge seating area is expansive and the bow section features a convertible setup from a pit to deep upright seating for four. Furthermore, the 23 LSV has a windscreen in the walk-through, tons of storage and an easy access three-piece locking rear hatch. There’s also a huge sun deck, dual gas fills and even headlights.
For performance, our test boat had the optional Indmar big block 8.1 liter Vortec engine producing 425 horsepower. This setup produced incredible acceleration numbers rivaling any hot-rod closed-bow inboard. But thanks to the materials used in Malibu’s Sound Supression Technology layups and the Silent Rider Mufflers, the power of this engine is only noticed in speed, not noise.
For a family, the Sunscape 23 LSV truly can create any wake for anyone. When loaded with people or ballast and combined with the newly redesigned wedge, it produces world-class wakes. Unloaded, the tracking and handling begin to resemble a true inboard for the recreational slalom skier.
UPSIDE
The wakes of any 22-1/2-foot V-drive are going to be big, but not all of them are going to be as clean or smooth at the top as the 23 LSV.
Incredible power and handling for its size, with excellent cornering ability — takes double- ups like a champ, and provides a smooth ride with little or no bounce.
Dual gas fills allow convenient stops at the gas pump.
A standard open-bow centerpiece filler cushion and bow wind block are welcome comfort amenities.
Recessed interior lighting means you can ride until dark and still find your way around the boat.
There is a second stereo control conveniently located on the transom near the swim platform.
There are two huge coolers in the bow.
The speedo pickups are switchable by controls located on the dash.
DOWNSIDE
Narrow walk-through width to open bow.
Length 22 ft. 6 in.
Beam 97 in.
Seating Capacity 13
Fuel Capacity 55 gal.
Test Prop Acme 13.5 X 17.5 4-blade
Test Engine Indmar Monsoon EFI-PFI, 325 HP
TOP SPEED 44.4 mph 4,790 rpm
ACCEL. TO 30 5.8 SEC. 134.3 FT.
ACCEL. TO 36 7.3 SEC. 208.8 FT.
NOISE LEVELS (db)
Neutral 57 D 58 R
36 MPH 84 D 88 R
