Boat Test: 2026 Sylvan G5 CLZ

Overview

The Sylvan G5 CLZ continues on the benchmarking theme that the pontoon builder set last year, ensuring that these boats compete head-to-head with other high-end brand names at the top of the market. (More on that in a few paragraphs.) At the ramp, docks, or sandbar, the G5 GLZ turns heads with its slick, advanced styling and digital features. Rigged with top-shelf Yamaha 300 power, this ‘toon rips to a top speed of nearly 43 mph. It jumps on plane, hitting 30 mph in 6.5 seconds from an in-gear idle. Turning was sharp, with defined banking, a feat made easy thanks to optional digital steering. 

It’s stingy with fuel—at least below 4,000 rpm: Our most economical cruising speed occurred at  3,000 rpm and 19.4 mph (6 gph and 3.2 mpg). That’s nearly 175 miles of range from the 60-gallon fuel tank leaving 10 percent in reserve. Delivering the performance and economy is the SPX PR25 Performance Package, which features triple 25-inch-diameter logs with lifting strakes flanking the center ’toon and on the insides of the outer logs. While this configuration has become somewhat of an industry standard over the past decade, Sylvan has adapted its own version, which clearly works well. In addition to brisk acceleration and confident cornering, the G5 CLZ flutters over lake chop and boat wakes with zero drama.

Interior and Accessories

Topsides, the new sculpted, aero-influenced exterior perimeter surround is molded in fiberglass panels and painted Malibu Blue.  Features include custom pods for the navigation and docking lights. Two great service features of this design are that the panels are easily removed for access to the wiring and structure behind them, and they are individually replaceable if damaged.

The electric-power carbon-fiber arch with a folding Bimini top is optional. Optional RGB mood lighting makes for a cool look aboard, especially at dusk. The Malibu Blue and grey pillow-topped cool-touch seating surface provides a plush look and comfortable feel. The bow seating on the G5 features facing lounges with Rotocast bases, with storage underneath and contoured bottom cushions for improved legroom. Inset pockets along each seatback feature charging ports and drink holders. The Platinum Package includes a handy see-through front gate, which is great for better forward visibility when docking or loading. In-floor storage, a 4-inch raised helm with a SeaDek mat, and Lillipad stern boarding ladder are also standard in the Platinum Package. Finally, the pontoon tubes are painted to match the topside surround, which offers a visually impactful aspect.

The captain’s console features a sturdy framed windshield. Behind that, a completely digitized dashboard with C-Zone touchscreen switching integrated into the Simrad screen helps the captain monitor the engine and boat’s systems intuitively. The system proves user friendly and easy to learn. There’s also an Ultra-Premium JL Audio sound package with subwoofer and six speakers. Underneath the floor, the center pontoon houses a cavernous storage compartment, which is standard (too many manufacturers make this an option).

The aft portside lounge is U-shaped with a reversible seatback to allow for forward or aft-facing lounging in a myriad of positions. To starboard, there’s a walkway for aft deck access. To the right of that walkway, the CLZ offers a complete galley with a countertop, a sink with a 5-gallon water supply, and more storage behind stainless-steel access doors. This is a nifty addition and one that will likely get used often; it’s in a strategic spot on the deck, and is well-organized for frequent access.

Astern, a very nicely sculpted, quite intricate black powder-coated safety railing keeps riders aboard while underway, even when seated facing aft. An extended aft deck is complete with watersports tow bar.

Read Next: Sylvan M-5 CLZ DC

Comparison shopping? G3’s SunCatcher Elite 324 SL Diamond Arch compares well with the G5 CLZ. It’s a tri-toon designed for performance and luxury, measures a slightly smaller 23 feet, 10 inches with an 8-foot, 6-inch beam and a 46-gallon fuel tank. Paired with a Yamaha F300, it hits a 46.5 mph at top end, punches to 30 mph in 7.6 seconds, and sells for $141,800 as rigged.

Alera’s M25L measures a very close 27 feet, 6 inches long and 8 feet, 6 inches wide and features a 70-gallon fuel tank. Fitted with a Mercury Verado 425 V-10 outboard, it took 6.4 seconds to reach 30 mph from an in-gear idle and topped out at 51 mph. As rigged, it sells for $184,723.

How We Tested

• Engine: Yamaha 300
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha 15.5″ x 16″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 49 gal. Crew Weight: 375 lb.

High Points

• Solid and surefooted in wind-driven lake chop and wakes from passing boats. Zero rattling, creaking or unsettling noises whatsoever. 
• Sleek, sculpted-fiberglass cockpit surround sets the G5 CLZ apart; the look is stylish and clean. 
• Yamaha digital integrated electric power steering means just a light touch at the helm is necessary to execute turns whether at full speed or maneuvering at docks or ramps.
  

Low Points

• Water-separating fuel filter is mounted in the outboard pod, exposed to spray and immersion. (Many builders do the same.) This risks corrosion and shortened life. There is room for it on deck where these risks would be avoided.
• Battery access is directly under the folding privacy surround, which can be awkward to access. 

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation