2020 Malibu Wakesetter 23 MXZ

Overview

Malibu’s all-new 23 MXZ slots right between the already popular 22 and 24, and may just be the Goldilocks of the group.

Interior and Accessories

With room for 16, the 23 MXZ is set up for comfortable fun for everybody aboard. In the oversize bow, there is room and comfort for sitting forward or aft. Under the walk-through cushion, Malibu has relocated the batteries, thereby creating valuable space for stowing items behind the spotter seat. In the main cockpit, the aft bench slides forward and easily converts into both a rear-facing seat for watching the on-water action as well as a tabletop. At the transom, two inset upholstered seats provide a comfortable spot for just hanging out or a convenient place to get ready to ride.

Engine

Speaking of riding, the signature calling card of the MXZ are its wakeboarding wakes and wakesurfing waves, both of which are sizable and easily customized thanks to the Power Wedge III. Trim up this automated foil, mounted at the transom, for a bigger, steeper wave face, or drop it down to lengthen out the wave. Thanks to the patented Surf Gate system and 3,170 pounds of ballast, the wave has plenty of push for all levels of riders, and the wakes can be built up for even the most advanced riders to enjoy big-air thrills.

Malibu’s Command Center dash setup delivers easy control of all the tech and systems on board, and new animations highlight how the Power Wedge’s position will affect the shape of the wake. Also new for 2020 is the Android operating system, which allows the installation of numerous apps. Connect your Malibu to a Wi-Fi hotspot and install your favorites (Spotify, Pandora, etc.). Download the playlists you want, then access them anytime you’re on your boat, no phone connection or cell signal necessary.

The Wakesetter 23 MXZ hits the sweet spot of wakeboats and should appeal to a variety of users. And thanks to its user-friendliness, full days of on-water fun for all are just a couple of screen taps away.

How We Tested

• Engine: Malibu Monsoon M5 Di
• Drive/Props: V-drive/Acme 3077 17″ x 15″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 45 gal. Crew Weight: 360 lb.

High Points

• Extra-deep storage easily fits full-size coolers, plus lots of other gear.
• Stern thruster, mounted below the swim step, makes maneuvering the 23 MXZ in tight spaces a breeze.
• Malibu’s new Monsoon engines provide all the power you’ll need in a quiet, efficient manner.

Low Points

• Power folding tower is not standard.

Toughest Competitor

The Supra SA is 7 inches shorter but still rated for 16 people. The starting suggested retail price is $137,200, which includes a power folding tower.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation