The Wakesetter 22 MXZ incorporates Malibu’s signature pickle-fork hull shape with its Integrated Surf Platform technologies to help it produce large, consistently surfable waves. Our surf team found the waves behind this boat to be heavy and substantial, with a really big pocket and enough power to play around farther back. Another thing you’ll notice once behind this boat is how tall the wave is, one that’s comparable to the waves produced by much larger models. It’s a high-caliber wave that offers the rider a lot to work with.
As with the entire Malibu Wakesetter line, the 22 MXZ features the wearable Surf Band, so you can control the wave’s shape and size, switch sides and adjust speed, all right from your board. This wave is truly versatile and can be customized to accommodate riders of all skill levels, from beginner to pro. With the Command Center control system at the dash, featuring 12-inch and 7-inch touchscreen displays, the driver can control the boat and the surf tools with a simple touch of the fingertips. The MaxBallast system, which consists of two L-shaped hard tanks, can be combined with the optional plug-and-play bladder ballast system to add serious displacement and generate that giant wave.
The seating aboard the 22 MXZ is as outsize as the wake is, with enough room to comfortably seat 15 people. The seats are plush in both the bow, where the pickle-fork design affords extra legroom, and main cockpit area, where a rear-facing backrest to port provides the perfect area for a spotter. There’s plenty of stowage, and Malibu offers cutting-edge color schemes that will look cool to even the most jaded millennial in the family. Malibu builds its hull via its patented FibECS chassis and eight-layer lamination process, creating a superior build that helps the hull last while producing a solid, rattle-free ride across kicked-up lake chop.
While it’s built to make a wake, the 22 MXZ holds its own while cruising around or running over to the best spot to start a session. Powered with an Indmar Monsoon 575 gasoline inboard, our test model hit a top speed of 35.5 mph, reaching 20 mph in about 13 seconds. With no ballast aboard, the 22 MXZ planed in 4.5 seconds.
High Points
* MaxBallast system adds all the necessary weight for precise measurements, helping amplify the wake.
* The 12- and 7-inch touchscreen displays give the driver fingertip control of the boat’s functions.
* Integrated Surf Platform technologies include Surf Gate, Power Wedge and Surf Band.
* Pickle-fork design creates wide-open bow seating for the crowd.
Price: Unavailable (at press time)
How We Tested
Engine: Indmar Monsoon 575 6.2L
Prop: 15″ x 14 1/4″ 4-blade Acme Nibral
Gear Ratio: 1.76:1
Fuel Load: 36 gal.
Crew Weight: 580 lb.
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