The Sea-Doo RXP-X high-performance jet ski has had a 325hp boost thanks to a significant engine overhaul, including an all-new supercharger
Sea-Doo claims the 2024 version of the RXP-X has the highest power-to-weight ratio in the jet ski world today and can accelerate to 60mph (96km/h) in about 3.4 seconds.
Our real-world testing showed it hits 100kmh in about 4.7 seconds with a 100kg rider on board. This is not as brisk as the claim but still incredibly quick.
If this were a car it would be nearly as fast as a Porsche. But the Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 RS feels so much faster than this when you’re on the water, the wind is blasting your face, and you’re struggling to hold on.
The 2024 Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 RS costs from $32,464 excluding trailer and registration, making it one of the most expensive jet skis on sale today.
Key changes for 2024 include a new supercharger, new fuel pump, new electronic control module, new injectors, new air intake, new exhaust manifold and an O2 sensor to more accurately measure the fuel mixture.
The 2024 RXP-X325 also gains the carbon-fibre hood cover and adjustable steering damper set-up that debuted with the 2023 Sea-Doo RXP-X300 Apex limited edition unveiled by Australian F1 ace Daniel Ricciardo.
It also comes with high-performance 'X' sponsons (for sharper reflexes and tighter turns), a polished impeller, an extended trim system and launch control for optimum acceleration. And a “scoop grate” in the belly to make sure the jet pump gets fed plenty of water, and doesn’t cavitate on take-off.
Standard equipment includes a 7.8-inch ‘VIP’ digital instrument display, factory-fitted speakers, and a USB charge port in the waterproof phone-holder compartment inside the centre console.
Despite the power increase, the differences in acceleration and top speed between the previous 300hp version and the latest 325hp model are incremental. It’s worth noting the previous RXP-X 300 was already the quickest PWC of its era.
The 325 feels a lot stronger in the middle of the rev range and doesn’t get an asthma attack at the top end either. The result is a much more responsive engine and one that feels tireless all the way to its top speed.
The steering damper (now fitted as standard) may have initially been dismissed as a gimmick, but having tested it at length it’s a must-have. It makes the sharp handling of the RXP-X much more manageable.
The sponsons are so aggressive and dig into the water in tight turns so well, that without the adjustable steering damper the rider risks being ejected.
Making the steering heavier at the turn of a dial – and providing more resistance to the steering input from the rider – means the RXP-X is much more linear in tight turns. You still need to hold on tight and lock your knees into position to stay in control.
The other impressive aspect of the RXP-X 325 is the design of the new generation hull which launched a few years ago. The bow and the sponsons cut through chop well. Here’s hoping Sea-Doo realises what a gem it has on its hands with the current generation RXP hull and applies some of the design to other models in the future.
There is one important aspect to note, however. The RXP-X is not suited to riders who prefer to ride while crouching or standing up.
The handlebars are not adjustable, which makes it uncomfortable to lean down while standing in rough conditions. It feels like you’re about to go over the handlebars.
Sitting down gives the rider better steering and throttle control, but it means your body is taking more of a battering and you may need to adjust your riding style.
Another note. The glovebox lid won’t open when the handlebar is turned at full lock. And if you turn the handlebar – perhaps when you’re idling – it will slam the centre console lid shut.
Although the RXP-X has a choice of Eco and Normal modes – as well as Sport and Launch modes – we would say this really is a ski for advanced, experienced riders.
First timers to supercharged power might consider the Sea-Doo RXT-325 RS, which has the same 325hp engine but installed in a larger, heavier platform than the RXP-X 325 RS, is a three-seater rather than a two-seater, has height adjustable handlebars, has a more accessible and more user-friendly main storage compartment, and a longer list of accessories.
Our testing found the Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 RS launches hard and fast, hitting 40km/h in just 1.25 seconds on the way to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds.
This makes the Sea-Doo’s acceleration about 0.5 seconds quicker than the equivalent supercharged jet skis from Yamaha and Kawasaki, based on our testing.
The average top speed of the RXP-X 325 RS over four runs, two in each direction, was 118.5km/h – though on one run we did nudge 120.1km/h on our GPS.
Others have recorded slightly higher top speeds in cooler conditions and with lighter riders, but this is what we got on the day – and these numbers are repeatable even in adverse conditions.
The RXP tested was in standard condition, straight out of the box, with no modifications.
Other RXP-X 325 performance times you might see online could be for craft fitted with a SCOM, or speed control override module.
Maximum revs on the RXP-X 325 tested were 8000-8100rpm. The owner’s manual lists peak revs at 8250rpm.
Sea-Doo says the RXP-X 325 is usually run-in from 3-5 hours. The craft tested had more than five hours on the clock.
Maximum revs on the RXP-X 325 is 8250rpm – once the engine is run-in – versus 8000rpm on the Sea-Doo GTR-X 300, 7800rpm on the Yamaha FX SVHO and 7400rpm on the Kawasaki Ultra 310.
As acceleration figures show, the RXP-X 325 is the fastest PWC on the market today. However, our testing showed it is a thirsty machine, too, which is understandable given the performance.
Our preliminary testing showed the Sea-Doo RXP-X325 – with its supercharged 1630cc three-cylinder engine – consumed fuel at a rate of 65L/100km.
This makes it as thirsty as the supercharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder Kawasaki Ultra 310. And about 10 per cent thirstier than the Yamaha FX SVHO powered by a supercharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder.
The 2024 Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 is an epic machine and definitely not for the faint hearted.
This craft is better suited to experienced riders.
The RXP-X is the best performance ski on the market today, not just because of its blistering acceleration, mid-range grunt, strong top-end, and industry-leading top speed, but because of the way it carves through choppy water.
Big thanks to Lake And Valley Powersports, located in the Central Coast just north of Sydney, for loaning us this craft to test over two weekends.
Engine: Supercharged 1630cc three-cylinder Rotax
Power: 325hp
Beam: 125cm
Height: 111cm
Dry weight: 362kg with sound system
Fuel: 70L
Passengers: 2 (182kg total)
Bow storage: 143L
Centre console storage: 9.7L
Warranty: Two years
Priced from: $32,464 excluding trailer and registration
Supplied by: Lake And Valley Powersports