Boats

Malibu Response TXi

The Malibu Response TXi offers one of the best slalom wakes we’ve tried.

By Boating Tech Team

Updated: December 18, 2017

When it comes to the Malibu Response TXi, the most notable thing about it is the wake — or lack thereof. Its smooth, small, passable wakes with miniscule trough and almost nonexistent chine spray combine to make one of the best slalom wakes we’ve tried. Our test crew skied the 2018 TXi at 34.2 mph at 28 off. They couldn’t find a single thing to nitpick, giving it 10s across the board. The pull is consistent, and the wake is symmetrical, consistent, and has virtually no bump.

Malibu Response TXi Malibu Boats

At the helm, the driver works off of both 12-inch and 7-inch touchscreen displays 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 and 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-fin 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 best position to succeed.

Malibu Response TXi Malibu Boats

The TXi also has the interior to keep the crew in comfort on a joyride. 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 secure while cruising around the lake. SeaDek flooring adds style points while creating padded traction underfoot. 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 competition or just as the family tow boat for weekends at the lake, the Malibu Response TXi will make you a winner.

Malibu Response TXi Malibu Boats

High Points
* Comes in both traditional closed-bow or open-bow configurations.
* Three-fin T-Cut Diamond hull design ensures laser-straight tracking and the flat wake beloved by pro-level skiers.
* Ten water-skiing world records have been set behind the TXi hull.
* Billet-aluminum folding ski racks in the cockpit keep your skis safe and secure while underway.

Price: Unavailable (at press time)