Top 10 Malibu Boat Models 2027

Direct Answer

The Best Overall Malibu for 2027 is the Wakesetter 23 LSV, starting around $165,000, the brand's best-selling tow boat thanks to Surf Gate wave-shaping, up to 4,000 lb of Plug-N-Play ballast, and a versatile layout that surfs, boards, and cruises better than anything in its size class.

The Best Value pick is the Response TXi, starting near $95,000, a true direct-drive ski boat that delivers Malibu hull quality and a clean wake for the lowest entry price in the lineup. This list is built for watersports families — wakesurfers, wakeboarders, and slalom skiers — who want proven Surf Gate tech, dialed ballast, and resale that holds.

Budgets here run from a sub-$100,000 ski boat to a loaded $210,000-plus flagship. Every pick uses real 2026–2027 model-year specs and MSRPs.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each Malibu against what tow-boat buyers actually prioritize, drawing on published data from Boating Magazine, WakeWorld, BoatTEST, boats.com, Wakeboarding coverage, and Malibu's own spec sheets. The weighting:

• Build quality and reliability — 25%
• On-water performance (wake/surf/ski) — 20%
• Value and price — 15%
• Comfort and layout — 15%
• Features and tech — 15%
• Resale — 10%

A boat that throws a great surf wave but cramps passengers, or skis clean but bleeds value at trade-in, drops fast. The winners balance all six.

1. Malibu Wakesetter 23 LSV 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $165,000 | Best for: All-around watersports families who want the best-selling tow boat

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 23 LSV is the brand's volume flagship and arguably the best all-around surf boat on the water. It runs a 23-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam, carries up to 4,000 lb of Plug-N-Play ballast, and seats up to 17. Power comes from the Monsoon M6 6.2L rated up to 450 hp, fuel capacity sits near 62 gallons, and the patented Surf Gate plus Power Wedge III deliver instant, switchable surf waves on either side.

The G4 tower, 16-inch Malibu Touch Command helm, and refined hull make wave tuning push-button simple. Class-leading resale seals the win.

Pros:

• Up to 4,000 lb ballast with patented Surf Gate wave shaping
• Monsoon M6 6.2L rated to 450 hp for strong hole-shot
• Best-in-class resale as the segment's best-seller
• 16-inch Touch Command helm and Power Wedge III tuning

Cons:

• Options push pricing past $190,000 loaded
• Popular hull means limited dealer discounting

Verdict: The 23 LSV wins on balance — the best all-around wave, build, and resale with no real weak spot.

2. Malibu Wakesetter 25 LSV

Starting MSRP: $195,000 | Best for: Big families who want the largest LSV surf platform

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 25 LSV is the largest of the LSV line and a genuine people-mover. It stretches to a 25-foot 6-inch LOA on a 102-inch beam, holds up to 4,500 lb of ballast, and seats up to 20. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity reaches roughly 78 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III produces a long, forgiving wave ideal for groups.

The expansive cockpit, large bow, and G4 tower make it equal parts surf boat and day cruiser for buyers who entertain.

Pros:

• 25-foot 6-inch hull seats up to 20 comfortably
• Up to 4,500 lb ballast for a large, long surf wave
• Roughly 78-gallon fuel capacity for full days out
• Surf Gate with Power Wedge III tuning

Cons:

• Big hull is harder to trailer and store
• Priced near the top of the lineup

Verdict: The big-family surf platform — flagship wave and the most usable space Malibu offers.

3. Malibu Wakesetter 24 MXZ

Starting MSRP: $210,000 | Best for: Buyers who want the premium pickle-fork flagship

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 24 MXZ is the brand's premium pickle-fork model and its most luxurious tow boat. It runs a 24-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam, carries up to 4,200 lb of ballast, and seats up to 18. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity sits near 66 gallons, and the walk-through pickle-fork bow opens up huge front seating.

Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, dual helm displays, and yacht-grade upholstery make the MXZ the top-trim surf cruiser in the range.

Pros:

• Walk-through pickle-fork bow maximizes front seating
• Up to 4,200 lb ballast with Surf Gate wave shaping
• Premium upholstery and dual helm displays
• Monsoon M6 6.2L power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Highest entry price in the lineup
• Pickle-fork bow rides wetter in chop than a closed bow

Verdict: The luxury flagship — choose it for the open bow, premium finish, and a big wave.

4. Malibu Wakesetter 22 LSV

Starting MSRP: $155,000 | Best for: Families wanting LSV surf in a slightly smaller, nimbler hull

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 22 LSV brings the proven LSV recipe to a more compact hull. It measures a 22-foot LOA on a 100-inch beam, carries up to 3,400 lb of ballast, and seats up to 16. The Monsoon M6 6.2L offers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity is near 57 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III still shapes an excellent surf wave.

It is easier to store and tow than the 23 and 25 LSV while keeping the same premium helm and G4 tower. For many buyers, it is the value-conscious LSV pick.

Pros:

• Up to 3,400 lb ballast with full Surf Gate system
• Nimble 22-foot hull is easier to trailer and store
• Same premium helm and G4 tower as larger LSVs
• Monsoon M6 6.2L power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Smaller wave than the 23 and 25 LSV
• Priced close to the more capable 23 LSV

Verdict: The compact LSV — nearly the 23 LSV experience in a smaller, easier-to-handle package.

5. Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX

Starting MSRP: $135,000 | Best for: Smaller families who want an affordable Surf Gate boat

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 21 LX is the entry point to the Wakesetter line and the most affordable Surf Gate boat Malibu builds. It runs a 21-foot 6-inch LOA on a 96-inch beam, carries up to 2,850 lb of ballast, and seats up to 15. The Monsoon M6 6.2L is available up to 450 hp, fuel capacity sits near 52 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge still delivers a genuine, switchable surf wave.

The compact hull is easy to store and tow, making it ideal for first-time surf-boat buyers.

Pros:

• Lowest-priced Surf Gate boat in the lineup
• Up to 2,850 lb ballast for a real surf wave
• Compact 21-foot 6-inch hull is easy to handle
• Available Monsoon M6 power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Smaller wave and less ballast than the LSVs
• Simpler helm and trim than premium models

Verdict: The entry Wakesetter — the most affordable way into Malibu's Surf Gate surf tech.

6. Malibu M240

Starting MSRP: $200,000 | Best for: Buyers who want the luxury M-series surf cruiser

The 2027 Malibu M240 sits in the ultra-premium M-series and blends surf performance with near-yacht luxury. It runs a 24-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam, holds up to 4,300 lb of ballast, and seats up to 18. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity reaches roughly 70 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III shapes a tall, clean wave.

Distinctive M-series styling, premium upholstery, and a high-feature helm make the M240 the design statement of the range.

Pros:

• Up to 4,300 lb ballast with Surf Gate wave shaping
• Premium M-series styling and yacht-grade interior
• Roughly 70-gallon fuel capacity for long days
• Monsoon M6 6.2L power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Premium pricing near the top of the lineup
• Style-forward design costs some practicality

Verdict: The design-led luxury surfer — buy it for M-series style with a big, clean wave.

7. Malibu M220

Starting MSRP: $175,000 | Best for: Buyers who want M-series luxury in a smaller hull

The 2027 Malibu M220 brings M-series styling and finish to a more compact body. It runs a 22-foot LOA on a 100-inch beam, carries up to 3,600 lb of ballast, and seats up to 16. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity sits near 57 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III produces a strong surf wave.

It is easier to store than the M240 while keeping the premium M-series helm, upholstery, and tower. For buyers who want the M look without the largest hull, it is the sweet spot.

Pros:

• M-series styling and finish in a nimble 22-foot hull
• Up to 3,600 lb ballast with Surf Gate
• Premium helm and upholstery from the M-series
• Monsoon M6 6.2L power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Smaller wave than the M240 and 23 LSV
• Premium pricing for the size

Verdict: The compact luxury surfer — M-series style and a strong wave in an easier-to-own size.

8. Malibu Response TXi

Starting MSRP: $95,000 | Best for: Slalom skiers who want a direct-drive boat at the best value 💎 BEST VALUE

The 2027 Malibu Response TXi is the brand's dedicated direct-drive ski boat and the best value in the lineup. It runs a 20-foot LOA on a 90-inch beam, weighs in light for a flat, clean wake, and seats up to 8. The Monsoon LT5.7L delivers up to 350 hp, fuel capacity sits near 38 gallons, and the center-mounted engine produces the smallest, most consistent slalom wake Malibu builds.

You still get the brand's hull quality and a refined helm at the lowest entry price in the range.

Pros:

• Lowest entry price in the lineup at $95,000
• Direct-drive layout for the cleanest slalom wake
• Light, precise hull tracks dead straight at speed
• Same Malibu hull quality as the surf boats

Cons:

• Direct-drive layout is not built for wakesurfing
• Smaller cockpit than the Wakesetter surf boats

Verdict: The value champion — a true competition ski boat with Malibu quality at the most accessible price.

9. Malibu Wakesetter 26 LSV

Starting MSRP: $205,000 | Best for: Large groups who want the biggest LSV people-mover

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter 26 LSV is the largest LSV and the brand's ultimate group surf boat. It stretches to a 26-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam, holds up to 4,800 lb of ballast, and seats up to 22. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity reaches roughly 82 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III produces a long, powerful wave.

The huge cockpit, expansive bow, and G4 tower make it the most accommodating tow boat Malibu builds for big crews and long days.

Pros:

• 26-foot hull seats up to 22 for big groups
• Up to 4,800 lb ballast for a large, long wave
• Roughly 82-gallon fuel capacity for full days out
• Surf Gate with Power Wedge III tuning

Cons:

• Largest hull is hardest to trailer and store
• Premium pricing and demanding storage needs

Verdict: The ultimate group surfer — the most space and ballast Malibu offers for big crews.

10. Malibu Wakesetter T25

Starting MSRP: $215,000 | Best for: Buyers who want the premium T-series flagship surf wave

The 2027 Malibu Wakesetter T25 is the flagship of the T-series and a premium, performance-tuned surf boat. It runs a 25-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam, carries up to 4,600 lb of ballast, and seats up to 19. The Monsoon M6 6.2L delivers up to 450 hp, fuel capacity sits near 76 gallons, and Surf Gate with Power Wedge III shapes one of the tallest, cleanest waves in the lineup.

Premium upholstery, dual helm displays, and refined styling make the T25 a top-trim surf flagship for buyers chasing the best wave.

Pros:

• Up to 4,600 lb ballast for one of the tallest waves
• Premium T-series styling and dual helm displays
• Roughly 76-gallon fuel capacity for long days
• Monsoon M6 6.2L power to 450 hp

Cons:

• Highest-tier pricing in the lineup
• Large hull demands a big tow vehicle and slip

Verdict: The T-series flagship — buy it for one of Malibu's tallest, cleanest waves and premium finish.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a wake/surf boat

• Ballast and surf system — More integrated ballast and a proven surf-shaping system (Malibu's Surf Gate plus Power Wedge III) mean a bigger, cleaner, switchable wave. Confirm pounds of ballast, not just that a system exists.
• Hull quality and weight — A well-built hull holds value and rides better. Heavier hulls make bigger waves but want more horsepower.
• Engine and hole-shot — The Monsoon M6 6.2L to 450 hp pulls hard; ski use can run the lighter LT5.7L. Match power to ballast load.
• Tower and helm tech — A solid G4 tower for racks and speakers plus a large Touch Command helm with auto-tuning makes daily use far easier.
• Seating and layout — Count real usable seats and decide between an open pickle-fork bow (24 MXZ) and a closed bow for drier rides in chop.
• Trailer and storage fit — Confirm LOA and beam fit your slip, lift, and tow vehicle before you fall for the biggest hull.

What matters less than marketing implies: peak horsepower numbers, screen size alone, and trim-name badges. Ballast capacity, hull quality, and resale value affect your ownership far more than a 30-hp spec difference.

FAQ

Which Malibu is the best overall for 2027? The Wakesetter 23 LSV earns our top spot — it pairs up to 4,000 lb of ballast, patented Surf Gate, a Monsoon M6 6.2L to 450 hp, and the segment's best resale.

What is the best value Malibu? The Response TXi, starting near $95,000, is the value leader — a true direct-drive ski boat with Malibu hull quality at the lowest entry price in the lineup.

Which Malibu makes the biggest surf wave? The Wakesetter 26 LSV with up to 4,800 lb of ballast shapes the largest wave, with the Wakesetter T25 and 25 LSV close behind thanks to their size and ballast.

Which Malibu is best for slalom skiing? The Response TXi is the dedicated direct-drive ski boat, producing the smallest, flattest, most consistent slalom wake in the lineup.

How much does a 2027 Malibu cost? Pricing runs from about $95,000 for the Response TXi to roughly $215,000-plus for the Wakesetter T25, with most Surf Gate boats landing between $135,000 and $210,000 depending on options.

Which Malibu seats the most people? The Wakesetter 26 LSV is the largest model, seating up to 22, followed by the 25 LSV at up to 20 and the T25 at up to 19.

Bottom Line

For 2027, the Malibu Wakesetter 23 LSV is our Best Overall tow boat — from about $165,000, it wins on all-around wave quality, ballast, build, and resale with no real weakness. The Response TXi, from about $95,000, is our Best Value, delivering a true direct-drive ski boat with Malibu quality at the most accessible price.

If your priorities lean toward maximum space, premium luxury, or the tallest wave, use the decision tree above to route yourself to the 26 LSV, 24 MXZ, M240, or T25 instead. Buy on ballast, hull quality, and resale — not headline horsepower — and you will be happy season after season.

Sources

• Boating Magazine — tow boat reviews and tests
• Discover Boating — boat buying guides
• BoatTEST — certified boat tests and specs
• boats.com — listings, reviews, and pricing
• WakeWorld — wakeboard and wakesurf boat coverage
• Wakeboarding / Alliance Wake — watersports boat reviews
• Yachting — performance boat features
• Power & Motoryacht — boat tests and ownership
• Malibu Boats — official 2027 models and specs

*Malibu Boats review — best Malibu 2027, reviews, ratings, prices, and a review of the top wake and ski boat picks for buyers.*