So we currently have a 2019 Malibu 21 VLX which has been well used and has nearly 250 hours. 6.0L engine is great and quiet. We are considering an upgrade but there are considerations so would love some advice. First, we have about 39” of water depth at the end of our dock. New boat requires a new lift and probably another 4’ of dock for a few more inches of depth and bigger boat. VLX gets on and off a 5k lift no problem. Not a deal-breaker but we are in a shared dock within an association so will have to navigate that.
Second is the tow vehicle and I have a 2019 Ram 1500 4x4 with 8200 lb. towing capacity. I love the truck and don’t want a new one.
Third is obviously choosing the right boat. We mostly surf, with a bit of wakeboarding and some (sorry) tubing interspersed. We like to cruise and float/swim and trailer the boat 2-3x a year for a change of pace. Drive-ability is important - don’t want a bus. We love the VLX - it does everything we need for sure. If we are being picky it would be for clamping racks, new engine, new mOS, reset of the hours/warranty, more space, a little better rough water performance (we can get pretty wet in the VLX is there is chop), and a little more fit and finish including transom walk through.
My wife and daughter love the bow and prioritize that space above all else, my son and I prioritize performance and the walk through.
All this to say we are either going to be content with what we have or take the plunge and upgrade. But is the best option a 23 LSV (new design and features are nice), 23 MXZ (bow would be nice but none of us love the look) or the new m220 (blend of the best of all but perhaps too heavy to be practical?) I really wouldn’t consider a MC but might consider a Nautique 230 as an alternative to Bu.
How should I think about the pros and cons here? Thanks in advance