Malibu at Melbourne Boat Show

Three new 2012 models bound to make waves and wake

Malibu Australia is debuting three exciting new wake and ski boats at the Melbourne Boat Show opening next Thursday, July 5. The Albury-based boat builder has upped the ante with its 2012 towboats pitched at everyone from the all-out enthusiast with deep pockets to those shopping for a great wake and a keen price.

Driven by our test team on Lake Hume, the new Wakesetter 22 MXZ leads the way in the burgeoning wakeboarding and boat-surfing stakes. With three ballast tanks and a wedge, preset tow modes and cool tower, you can dial up your desired stage and take flight.

Malibu Australia says the 22 MXZ has been designed entirely in a digital environment for precise construction with a sleek new style that commands attention. The wide-open bow helps create more seating and storage, while the extra-deep design provides a safe and snug social space.

David Thorpe, Marketing manager of Malibu Boats adds that the 22 MXZ’s all-new hull delivers more of Malibu’s signature standout performance.

“Up front, its super-sharp entry into the water yields a smooth, dry ride in even the roughest water, while the big, clean wake is designed to take your riding to the next level,” Thorpe says.

“The wake definitely has that classic Wakesetter shape with long transitions to take off and land on and it’s nice and big without adding a ton of weight,” he adds.

Meanwhile, the Response TXi offers proven high-end performance thanks to the new T Cut Diamond Hull that accommodates different levels of skiers by taming the flow of water to allow smoother wakes at slower speeds and longer line lengths.

The boat's innovative running surface has been said to produce pillow-soft wakes for skiing's elite as well as for advancing longline skiers looking for every competitive edge they can get.

“In the TXi, the ‘T’ is for Tournament but even if you’re only competition is yourself, this boat will bring out your best,” Thorpe says.

Last but not least, the Response LXR (not pictured) is said to offer watersports enthusiast the practicality of a deep, walk-through, open-bow design, but in a more compact high performance package with a very attractive price tag.

The new 2012 Malibu Response LXR, which is said to blend the features of the immensely popular Response LX and the record-breaking Response TXi, has a recommended retail of $53,229.00 (excluding statutory and dealer delivery charges).

Malibu says the LXR produces slalom wakes of the highest and most competitive standard, yet with its slightly narrower beam than the TXi, it also offers board riders super clean, rampy wakes with the addition of the company’s Manual or Power Wedge.

Other features include MH2 frameless vented windscreen -- as featured on the premium Wakesetter range -- redesigned deck for a new sharp and edgy look, signature upmarket fit and finish, abundant storage, and flip-up bow entry step with storage below.

The LXR comes standard with a the 330 LCR multiport fuel-injected engine, but can be optioned up to either the 350 Monsoon or the new 410hp 6 litre L96.

The long list of standard features includes a polished stainless dash panel with LCD info-centre display featuring Precision Pro speed control, fly-by-wire throttle control with electric F-N-R shift, adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, navigation lights, Cipa mirror, 2 ½ inch solid core ski pole with patented swivel head, stainless grab handles and hardware throughout, freshwater flush system, dripless shaft seal, battery isolator switch and more.

The standard braked trailer has hot-dip galvanising, 15 alloy wheels, valanced guards, spinner guide poles and Fulton winch and jockey wheel. Bound to be a showstopper when its unveiled at the Melbourne Boat Show. For more information see www.malibuboats.com.au.

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Malibu at Melbourne Boat Show

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