Tahoe’s 2485 LTZ Quad Lounge shows off Tahoe quality and features at a bargain price. It bristles with higher-end construction, materials and amenities, yet the as-tested price is just $54,012 with a Mercury 150 FourStroke outboard. With that compact and fuel-miserly engine, the 25-foot Tahoe hit a top speed of 38 mph at 5,400 rpm, accelerated from zero to 30 mph in 7.6 seconds, and recorded a best cruise speed of 17 mph at 3,000 rpm, where the Mercury sipped 87-octane regular fuel at 3.6 gph (4.7 mpg). At that pace, normal room-level conversations were easy—the engine and hull noise level recorded was a whisper-quiet 72.5 decibels. Range from the 38-gallon tank is just over 161 miles while leaving 10 percent in reserve.
Despite the great price, Tahoe doesn’t skimp on construction. The optional triple 25-inch Sport performance pontoons are mated to the deck with heavy-duty, double-bolted hat-channel crossbeams. An aluminum underdeck Wave Shield helps improve airflow and efficiency. The deck is ¾-inch PTP marine flooring that has a lifetime warranty, with optional in-floor storage. A 3-inch-tall perimeter rub rail caps the deck, with a black rubber insert to cushion docking. Our test boat featured the valuable in-floor storage option. Tahoe seat frames are all aluminum, which gives excellent storage room underneath, along with ventilation to minimize moisture. A 10-year bow-to-stern warranty and lifetime hull-and-floor warranty are standard.
The LTZ features a full-surround bow seating arrangement with tri-tone Matrix 50 premium-cushioned vinyl. A removable bow seat connects the twin facing loungers; it’s removable for beaching or docking access through the bow door. The captain’s console is positioned forward, making the bow conversation pit best suited for two. A removable snack table fits neatly between. Abaft, twin facing loungers create a larger gathering area for up to four. Behind the aft perimeter fencing is an extended deck with a storage canister center-mounted in front of the Mercury outboard. The installed optional ski-tow bar is a must-have.
High Points
- New Deco 4 smooth-look perimeter multipanel wall skins grant this pontoon a sleeker look and help make cleanup easier.
- New ergonomic Smart 80 touchscreen dash provides the captain with all the information he could want about the Mercury outboard at a touch, and it’s easy to navigate.
- Blue Ice interior lighting package creates a silky mood for evening cruises.
Specs
LOA: 24′6″
Beam: 8′6″
Draft: 1′6″
Dry Weight: 2,800 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 12/2,580 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 38 gal.
Price: $56,985
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury FourStroke 150 hp
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.92:1
Fuel Load: 22 gal.
Crew Weight: 250 lb.
More Information
Tahoe Pontoon Boats – Alma, Michigan; 800-334-2913; tahoepontoons.com