An all-new 19-foot-5-inch hull is the foundation for a 2019 Yamaha SX195 that’s three inches longer and two inches wider than last year’s model. Do a few inches make a big difference? They can if that extra space is managed well, and Yamaha has put a lot of thought into the cockpit of this new model, and yes, they did capitalize well on the added square footage.
A new seating layout features a bench seat wrapping from the stern to the port console. The sole area behind the helm seat is now open for stowing a 25-quart cooler below a detachable table. Even with the table in place there’s always a clear walkway through the boat.
The slim helm seat swivels to face the table, and the lower portion of the backrest is cut away to allow the driver to pivot on the seat without unlocking the seat swivel. That’s a valuable feature when waiting for a wakeboard rider to get in position for the hole shot.
Now larger, the port console offers more stowage space, and its inboard surface is angled towards the cockpit so it’s easier to reach the lockable door. There’s more foot room in the bow, and those bow seat cushions as well as the portside aft seat cushion are now hinged and easier to open than the previous lift-off cushions. The AR195 model ($37,599) includes a watersports tower with integrated sun top.
The helm features a new space-saving side-mount control. The dash has a new Connext 4.3-inch color touchscreen, a remote for the Clarion audio system and a pivoting phone holder. Rocker switches control the Yamaha No Wake Zone and Cruise Assist speed-control functions.
The new hull features a deeper keel to improve low-speed tracking. The shape of the strakes and an extended running surface are intended to reduce bow rise on acceleration. The jet drive features a new reverse bucket that improves lateral thrust for better control in tight spaces such as around the dock, and we noticed that right off when backing into the slip. The Yamaha “articulated keel” rudder has been revised to reduce drag. The Yamaha SX195 is a little bigger, even better and more fun all around.
High Points
- Jet power is easy to maintain and operate.
- Supercharged engine packs some punch.
- Still the best transom design for lounging.
- Outstanding fit, finish and components.
Price: $35,599
How We Tested
Engine: 250 hp Yamaha Marine 1.8L SVHO jet drive
Drive/impeller: Water jet pump/160 mm stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1:1
Fuel Load: 12 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Yamaha Motor Corporation USA – Kennesaw, Georgia; 800-962-7926; yamahaboats.com
