Boat Test: 2026 MasterCraft X22

Overview

MasterCraft’s X-line of models have always been known for a striking balance of luxury and performance—think Cadillac or your favorite German automaker. With the redesigned X22, that blend hits new levels. The X22 is not only a showstopper visually and aesthetically, it also packs a heck of a punch in a 22-foot frame.

Interior and Accessories

Taking cues from its redesigned big brother, the X24, the X22 offers a striking new design. Bold and aggressive sculpting are complemented thoughtfully with modern lines and trends. Sticking with some tradition, the X22 retains MasterCraft’s signature sheerline, gently dipping from bow to transom, with a rise at the hip. Once onboard the X22, the attention to detail is immediately noticeable. From the upholstery’s texture and stitching patterns to armrests integrated into the gunwale wells and more, the attention to detail is profound, and really makes the X22 feel luxurious. Even the interior of the gunwale cubbies feature a woven fabric, rather than just being bare plastic, while the speaker housings and covers are thoughtfully integrated into the lines of the boat—adding to the seamless looks. Long known for its comfortable upholstery and padding choices, MasterCraft ensured that held true in the new X22, no matter which seat you find yourself in. The X22 is rated for 15, and storage can be found throughout. Under the seats, each cubby is carpeted, ensuring your gear stays in place and doesn’t get beat up.

The most popular seats at the house are found at the transom, with dual lounger-style chairs built in. The backrests that flip up are over-sized, making the seats a premium for kicking back in style. Underneath is more innovative storage, with MasterCraft’s new integrated system that utilizes padded sleeves that slide on tracks mounted to the underside of the seats. Want to take your board out of the boat for the transport home or to a friend’s boat? Slide the sleeve out of the track and off you go. Accessing the MasterCraft X22’s transom is also easier and more comfortable, thanks to cascading steps from both the swim platform and the interior cockpit. These steps mean that not only will you not step on any upholstery and possibly slip or damage it, but you won’t have to crawl or do other gymnastics either.

While not as flashy as the rear loungers, the captain’s chair is also all new for this year and proved to be very comfortable during our day running this boat. Given how fun the X22 is to drive, it may be just as popular too. Like the rest of the boat, the helm is also completely redesigned, featuring a 15-inch panoramic screen above the steering wheel and a 12-inch, vertically mounted touchscreen to the right. The sleek lines of the interior and upholstery give the low-profile dash a refined look, and your eye is never distracted by the “too much stuff” problem found in many of today’s boats. The X22’s operating system is clean and intuitive, making operation of the different functions a breeze, whether you’re setting up to wakeboard like a pro or teach a little one to wakesurf for the first time. New for the X22 is a rotary command dial, mounted next to the throttle, allowing the captain to navigate the boat’s systems without having to tap the touchscreen. A stereo control knob sits just above the rotary dial, offering easy adjustment to the X22’s audio.

One of the most striking features of the new X22 might just be something you don’t see: the frameless windshield. Not only does it add to the clean lines of the boat as a whole, but it also eliminates the blind spot often created by a solid frame. A frame is used on the port and starboard portions of the windshield, and the angles are designed to perfectly blend with the lines of the boat and the all-new Z9 tower. Aside from looks, the Z9 offers a lot of functionality, as it easily collapses with the push of a button, features hanging hooks for items such as towels or life jackets, and boasts some hefty Meridian speakers. I can sum-up the X22’s sound system in one word: superb.

Ballast

For all the on-water activities, the X22 also shines. The wakes can be customized from mellow to mega by tapping the screen and filling the 3,800 pounds of ballast. MasterCraft’s SurfStar system isn’t just intuitive to use, but it makes for fun, playful waves with lots of push behind the X22. A diagram helps the driver understand how adjusting the plates will affect the wave. Opt for the MAAX transom audio as part of the Meridian system and whoever is wakesurfing will be treated to clear, epic tunes while they ride.

Read Next: MasterCraft Brings Back the X23

If you are comparison shopping, there really aren’t many direct competitors to the MasterCraft X22 when you combine the size, luxury and performance that it delivers because not many other watersports boat manufacturers are focused on that combination in the 22-foot-size range. Tigé’s Ultré ZX is over a foot longer, but has its own style and unique features not seen in other boats. The Supra SA is comparable in size, performance and technology, and known for its pro-level wakes and waves. Ultimately, if you’re interested in a 22-foot boat that oozes style, luxury, and attention to detail while also offering up tons of fun for all your watersports activities, the X22 sits alone in that regard.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 6.2L GDI 440 hp/479 lb.-ft.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/17.5″ x 16″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 42 gal.Crew Weight: 350 lb.

High Points

• Wireless phone chargers are seamlessly integrated throughout the cockpit.
• Optional touchscreen for the observer seat, gives control over X22’s tunes, lighting and more.
• Storage compartments on either side of the transom walkthrough are perfect for wet ropes or vests.

Low Points

• Tiered steps from cabin to transom eliminate middle back seat as well as the option for a convertible back bench.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation