2022 Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX revealed globally

The new boat will be a new entry-level model for the traditionally highly appointed Australian-built Malibu range when the Wakesetter 21 LX arrives on the market here early next year in time for late summer deliveries.

Of note, it features a new ‘hybrid’ bow that carries more beam forward to create a more spacious bow lounge that increases its seating capacity compared with a conventionally bowed Malibu model.

“Entry into the coveted Wakesetter family of towboats has never been so accessible,” Malibu said in a statement announcing the new model’s official arrival.

“Building on the value, quality and performance that made the iconic 21 VLX and 21 MLX unbeatable, the all-new 21 LX brings a class-leading feature set that perfectly matches with its Malibu performance and industry-dominating versatility.”

However, while the Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX will offer the choice of two hulls in the North American market – either the Wake Plus version optimised for boards or the Diamond Hull that works better as a wake, surf and ski all-rounder – the Albury, NSW version of the boat will feature only the Diamond Hull.

According to Malibu, despite its compact 6.4-metre length and Australian towing law-friendly 2.49-metre beam, the new Wakesetter 21 LX has enough mass to create a “pro-level wake or wave” when needed.

However, with the Diamond Hull, the Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX “can still ride high in the water at waterski speeds for smooth, soft wakes for anything from first-time combo skiers to veteran slalom skiers”. 

The new boat will feature an aft pull-up pylon recessed into the transom for tow sports.

Malibu said the design allowed the Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX to retain “crisp traditional bow lines with exterior facets that make for a sharp on-water profile. 

“Inside, the bow creates a spacious forward area complete with plenty of cup holders, Wet Sounds audio, plush interior, ergonomic seating and billet grab handles,” it said.

Malibu’s G5 tower is fitted to the Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX as standard to take board racks, speakers and a bimini sunshade.

The extra-low folding TXi tower, which allows the Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX to slip into a standard garage, is optional. It is also light enough on the trailer to be towed behind a standard mid-size car.

Performance comes from Malibu’s Monsoon M5Di inboard V8 engine, with the M6Di available as an option in North America.

The new boat features a clean, unobstructed helm fitted with Malibu’s Command Centre digital dashboard that allows the skipper to trim the boat from behind the wheel, including pushing the wake to the left or right of the transom and even changing it to suit skill levels ranging from beginner to expert.

“With all this performance it can be easy to forget about luxury, but the 21 LX is a true Wakesetter model and Malibu takes that very seriously,” Malibu said.

“There is a high level of comfort and convenience that Malibu owners have come to expect from the Wakesetter name, and the 21 LX has it in spades. 

“A plush, wraparound lounge complete with Malibu Soft Grip flooring, eight-inch speakers, cupholders and Malibu logos is the setting for the perfect summer. 

“With seating for 12 and storage for all the crew’s gear, the 21 LX has plenty of space and all the amenities to leave the dock for a long day.”