Twin-engine pontoons can be potent performers on the water, but it takes a special running surface to make them fly. Enter the new ESP-3 running surface on Bennington’s Q27 Fastback. It provides the performance of twin-engine power with a more traditional and convenient 8-foot-6-inch beam, rather than the 10-foot beam of the renowned ESP-10 package. With twin Mercury 300 outboards on the transom and a trio of unique 32-inch elliptically shaped pontoons belowdecks, our test boat peaked near 58 mph. Elliptical tubes maximize buoyancy on a boat -carrying twin-engine weight and lower the center of gravity, giving the boat a sporty feel.
Long characterized by its radius bow, the Q line gets refined for 2022 with a new rail design and integrated docking lights. Step through into the bow and the Q’s Quad Bench seating is arrayed couch-style, with parallel 4-foot-4-inch lounges forward and 3-foot-6-inch lounges aft. Wrapped in easy-to-clean Simtex vinyl, they’re comfortably cool to the touch. Lumbar regions feature cutaways for speakers and Bennington’s seemingly ever-present high-speed USB charging ports. Stowage is located below them all, with both drainage and ventilation to help ward off moisture.
A sleek, low-profile windshield spans the port and starboard consoles. Behind, both the driver and passenger enjoy standard luxury recliner seats with acrylic-clad backs for style and durability. At the helm, the new Commander dash makes its debut. Outfitted in Bennington’s impeccable style, it features an up to 12-inch screen front and center; option an additional 5-inch screen to enhance the info at hand. We give extra points for the leather-wrapped Corvina wheel, the padded elbow rest for the captain’s throttle arm, and yet another wireless charger to keep your phone topped off.
Looking to enjoy the boat on the hook or at the sandbar? The aft gate leads to a large swim platform with an angled, flip-down boarding ladder. The Fastback design includes stereo control and 8-inch speakers hidden behind a stainless-steel mesh panel. Turn on the RGB accent lighting to add ambience to the party.
High Points
- New profile includes docking and navigation lights.
- Optional sport arch adds style, an integrated tow point, and power- or gas-assist folding.
- Wireless chargers are at the helm and behind the starboard chaise armrest.
How We Tested
- Engines: Twin Mercury 300
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia Eco 16″ x 20″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 74 gal. Crew Weight: 360 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $219,023 (with twin Mercury 300s) |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 28’3″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft: | 2’8″ (max) |
| Dry Weight: | 4,630 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 15/2,454 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 83 gal. |
Bennington Marine – Elkhart, Indiana; 574-264-6336; benningtonmarine.com
