WaterSki Magazine

WATERSKI Magazine
2009-11-20 15:33:03 | 472 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
When Malibu introduces a new model to an existing series, it doesn’t just stretch or shrink the previous designs to match different specs. Instead, Malibu engineers go to the drawing board and start from scratch, considering the goals and focus of this new addition to the lineup. Such is the case with the Sunscape 247 LSV, introduced in 2006. The cab-forward interior maximizes space in the main lounge, and standard amenities such as stainless-steel grab handles and lighted side panels make this boat as luxurious as it is spacious.

PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
If ever there was a boat designed for comfortable family cruising, the Sunscape 247 LSV is it. Not only do the on-board features make for a luxurious day on the water, the impressive handling characteristics ensure that whoever is driving will feel confident and in control. Equipped with a wide, balanced hull; rack-and-pinion steering; and deep, Gorilla tracking fins, this 24-foot-7-inch V-drive remains stable even when fully loaded with passengers and when slicing through big-water chop. Out of the box, this boat comes with a powerful 400 hp Indmar engine, but we prefer the increased power of the 450 hp upgrade–even if that seems greedy.

Because this boat shares the same V25 hull as the Wakesetter 247 LSV, it has the potential to churn up impressive wakes. If you want the capability for more than just recreational riding, we recommend opting for the Illusion X tower and 1,400-pound ballast system. For the complete wakeboarding package, add the wake-shaping Power Wedge too.

SPECS
Passengers: 16
Dry weight: 3,900 lb.
Draft: 27 in.
Load capacity: 2,400 lb.
Fuel capacity: 87 gal.
Storage capacity: 126 cu. ft.
Bow: 9 cu. ft.
Center: 69 cu. ft.
Rear: 48 cu. ft.
Platform: 13 sq. ft.
Interior gunwale height: 30 in.
Sun-pad area: 27 sq. ft.

STANDARDS
Base price: $65,238
Engine: Indmar HammerHead 383 6.2L, 400 hp
Cruise: Malibu Precision Pro
Pylon: Swivel, retractable
Mirror: Windshield-mounted
Driver’s seat: Swivel, bolster, adjustable lumbar support
Dash: Hand-wrapped vinyl, billet aluminum insert, 25th-anniversary features
Gauges: 5-inch Medallion, plus LCD screen
Gas fill: Dual rear
Cooler: 30 qt., rear center console;
20 qt., in floor
Cup holders: 20, stainless steel
Rub rail: Stainless steel
Platform: Teak, removable
Table: Removable
Graphics: Malibu logo, cast stainless-steel Malibu emblems
Colors: 21 color options, including breast-cancer-awareness pink, in eight color ways

OPTIONS
Engine: Indmar 8100 Vortec 8.1L, 450 hp
Cruise: PerfectPass
Ballast: 1,400 lb. total
One bow tank: 400 lb.
One center tank: 600 lb.
Two rear tanks: 200 lb. each
Tower: Illusion X with quick-pin release; Titan III
Racks: Swivel, clamp
Wake shaper: On-the-fly or manually adjustable foil
Mirror: Tower-mounted
Stereo: AM/FM/CD Sony deck with MP3 input and 1-gigabyte MP3 capacity, four Rockford Fosgate speakers, remote, tower speakers, XM satellite radio
Platform: Fiberglass with rubber featuring 25th-anniversary logo, removable
Trailer: Single or tandem axle, disc brakes
Misc.: Heater, shower, Bimini top, driver’s seat heater

Also in this line: Sunscape 25 LSV
The biggest boat in Malibu’s lineup, this family-oriented boat has seating for 16 people and 156 cubic feet of storage.

Phone: 209.383.7469
Web: Malibuboats.com