Professional-level skiers don’t ask for much — just a boat that tracks as straight as a ruler on a slalom course and throws the smallest, softest, flattest wake known to mankind. The Malibu Response TXi delivers on all counts. Look a little closer, and you’ll find that it delivers even more.
At the helm, the driver works off of both a 12-inch and 7-inch touchscreen display to set the boat up to his liking, as well as monitor speed and fuel. With Zero Off GPS cruise, the driver can set the speed, the course and go, so he or she can focus solely on giving the skier the best possible tow. The standard adjustable rudder tab allows the driver to set the rudder torque to his or her liking. Malibu’s T-Cut Diamond hull design considerably reduces the boat’s footprint in the water, and the three-finned design helps it track straight. Underway, the TXi doesn’t throw spray that can obscure the skier’s view of the next slalom gate. Everything about this boat puts the skier in the most likely position to succeed.
That’s not to say the TXi doesn’t have the luxurious interior to keep the crew in comfort on a joyride. It does. The open-bow version features plush bow seating with forward-facing backrests against the consoles, boasting stereo speakers, cup holders and grab handles. The closed-bow version features a windshield walk-through to the bow and storage underneath. (The open-bow version holds seven passengers; the closed bow holds five.) In the main cockpit, passengers will like the billet aluminum grab handles and the twin seats adorning the centerline step-up to the transom. Folding billet aluminum ski racks in the gunwales keep the skis safe and secure while cruising around the lake. Like all Malibu boats, the TXi hull is cut and molded to precise tolerances thanks to its CAD design and production via a five-axis router. Whether you plan to use this boat in the highest levels of competition or just as the family tow boat for weekends at the lake, the Malibu Response TXi is a boat that will make you a true winner.
High Points
* Malibu’s T-Cut Diamond hull design ensures laser-straight tracking and the flat wake beloved by pro-level skiers.
* Four water-skiing world records have been set behind the TXi hull, with more records sure to come.
* Billet aluminum folding ski racks in the cockpit keep your skis safe and secure while underway.
How We Tested
Engine: Indmar Monsoon 450 6.0L HO
Prop: 13″ x 12″ 4-blade
Gear Ratio: 1.00:1
Fuel Load: 25 gal.
Crew Weight: 380 lb.
Price
$76,800 (base)
Malibu Boats – Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; malibuboats.com
