2020 Axis A20 adds more room, gear as part of big makeover

Axis is Malibu Australia’s entry-level boat range that’s made to appeal to first-time ski, wake and surf enthusiasts, and the A20 is the cheapest way into the Australian-made range.

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However, from early next year the A20 jumps to a much improved design that increases interior volume, particularly in the pickle fork-styled bow, and lifts its fit and finish as the Albury-based factory that builds Axis and Malibu boats cuts down on duplication.

Significant changes have been made to the entire hull to maximise wake, ski and surf performance. The stem on the 2020 Axis A20 is much deeper than the model it replaces, and the bow is much more square. Both these changes allow the bow seating to extend further forward and wider, improving comfort and increasing the number of people who can use the space.

For those who love their wake sports, the 2020 Axis A20 steps up with the optional Power Wedge III technology and Surf Gate wake and wave technology.

The boats will have “Axis” embossed on the side of the hull, and the range gains access to an optional “zero gravity” gas-strut assisted tower that makes it much easier to put up or stow.

The Axis A20 gains a new driver’s seat with a cutaway side, making it much easier for the boat’s driver to turn around and chat with the people at the back of the boat.

The surf, ski and wake boat carries over the standard three ballast tanks to help shape the wave behind it, as well as the option to increase the ballast via a plug-and-play system.

The Axis A20’s dash carries over from the previous model, with the option of a mobile phone holder for the driver.

To help with weight distribution while cruising to and from your favourite stretch of water, Malibu has moved the Axis A20’s twin batteries from under the front passenger seat to below the floor of the bow.

There’s more underseat storage than before, and instead of storing the centre walkway’s wind blocker in a locker aft, it slots into a space beneath one of the cushions in the bow.

Malibu's Monsoon range of engines continues to power the Australian-built Axis boats, eith the optional M5Di providing the Axis A20 with more time on the water via much better fuel economy, and lower emissions.

The way the boat handles is also different, with changes to the propellor and a lower gear ratio for the transmission that improves how the boat works at ski speeds, as well as helping top-end performance.

Buyers can order the third generation of Malibu’s Sound Pack, which includes speakers mounted on a tower.