Spotlight: Bayliner Trophy T20CX

This open centre console boat is just the ticket for families seeking a full-featured, good value all-rounder.

Bayliner launched two new Trophy models last year, re-introducing the renowned Trophy nameplate after a decade-long absence. The new models — both centre consoles — include the T20CC/CX and the T22CC/CX.

The CC and CX designations refer to slightly different seating/rear transom layouts available with each model.

At a glance, the two different sized Trophy boats look identical. The layouts are the same across the two models, but the longer boat is substantially wider; it has a maximum beam of 2.59 metres.

This extra-wide beam boosts interior space, but makes the T22 boat package over-width for towing on Australian roads and potentially subject to towing restrictions.

In contrast, the smaller, more compact T20CC/CX has a narrower 2.43-metre beam, putting it well inside Australia's 2.5-metre maximum towing width limit.

The T20 series Trophy is also quite a bit cheaper than the flagship model, making it more affordable for budget-conscious families.

During our test of the larger Trophy T22CX last month, we were also able to sample the T20CX, complete with a trick black gelcoat colour scheme and paired with a Mercury 175hp Pro XS V6 outboard.

The Bayliner Trophy models have always targeted the recreational fishing market, but with sufficient seating and soft-touch features onboard to cater for family boaters. This philosophy has not changed with the latest models.

The interior layout in the T20CX will certainly appeal to all-round boaters. Up forward, for example, there is a U-shaped seating area that doubles as a casting deck with the removal of the seat cushions and the inclusion of an infill board.

Whether it is configured as a lounge seating area, or as a fishing platform, this forward space is remarkably wide due to its squared-off bow shape.

Beneath the seat cushions, the moulded fibreglass seating area contains three storage lockers, with the centre compartment set up as an anchor locker.

In the CX version of the Trophy T20, there is another moulded bench seat aft complete with clip-on cushions, a padded backrest, a large plumbed live bait tank, and a starboard side battery locker.

Taking centre stage inside the Trophy T20CX is the dual-width helm console with port side-accessed changeroom/toilet compartment and forward seat/storage locker.

Fronting the console is a cushioned box lean seat with a backrest, cup holders, aft-facing vertical rod rack and a second plumbed live well.

The helm station features a modern layout with the stainless steel steering wheel and throttle box offset to the port side to provide standing room for two people.

Our test boat did not have a multifunction display, but there is ample flat-panel fascia space for a moderate-size flush-fitted unit alongside the regular instrumentation.

Surrounding features include console grab rails, a full-width console footrest, single-piece acrylic windscreen, 245mm wide side deck coamings with horizontal gunwale rod racks underneath, and 690mm of cockpit freeboard.

The Trophy T20CX is rated for a single outboard engine with performance ranging between 115hp and 175hp.

The entry-sized engine would likely provide sufficient performance for some applications, but for tow sport activities and offshore fishing, I would opt for at least 150hp; Mercury's superb 150hp in-line four-cylinder outboard engine springs to mind here.

Our speedy test boat was paired with the highest rated outboard engine, a 175hp Mercury Pro XS four-stroke. This torquey V6 engine delivered on all fronts, providing the Trophy T20CX with effortless performance from idle through to a top speed of 38.2 knots.

Underway the boat/outboard engine combination feels smooth, stable and sporty. The 18-degree deadrise vee hull is softer than I expected, whilst also being stable and well mannered.

These excellent handling and performance attributes make the Trophy T20CX ideal for a mix of bay and coastal boating and fishing.

C-Worthy Marine on the Gold Coast has package prices for the Bayliner Trophy T20CX starting from $94,490 when paired with a 150hp Mercury Pro XS four-stroke outboard engine and a dual-axle braked trailer.

As tested with the larger Mercury 175hp Pro XS V6 outboard, black-coloured hull topsides, stainless steel upgrade package, interior lighting, power steering, bow filler cushion, and transom freshwater shower, the Trophy T20CX package is priced from $97,890.

Supplied by: C-Worthy Marine