Malibu Axis A22 Review

The release of a new American boat on the Australian market is always an exciting event, but it's particularly noteworthy when an Australian manufacturer decides to produce the vessel locally. The Axis A22 wakeboat is a prime example, and a wonderful step forward for the Australian water sports market. This unique design, developed by Axis Wake Research, is now manufactured locally by Malibu Boats Australia at its Albury, NSW facility.

Wakeboard enthusiasts are generally known for their energy and flair, and they are celebrating the introduction of the Axis with great enthusiasm. These beautifully equipped sports boats supply all the features of an inspirational wakeboarding masterpiece and combine them with masterful power, humping sound systems, fully adjustable cruise control and ballast systems, party-going layouts and facilities and boasting exceptional style and striking visuals. 

The striking appearance of the new black and white Axis AX22 is accentuated by striking white lightning blazes that give an awesome spectre to the sharp, diamond-cut demeanour. Its lines and decals are ultra-modern and, in many ways, appealing more like an architectural innovation than a conventional craft. In short, it looks commanding and powerful.

Aquatic Eye Candy

The Axis A22's striking appearance is brought to life by its distinctive pickle fork bow, frameless windscreen, laser-cut stainless trim, futuristic FatAX tower, and bold colour accents, all complemented by a classy upholstered finish.

The result is a vessel that exudes attitude and turns heads. As a reputable Australian boatbuilder, Malibu brings its high standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail to the Axis A22, ensuring a premium product that reflects the brand's reputation.

The package was first released to the public at the Melbourne Show, and to put it mildly, I was greatly impressed and eager to take one for a spin. Needless to say, I was pumped when a test finally eventuated.

Big Water Dreaming

Our test of the Axis A22 at Lake Eildon, Victoria, coincided with a rare warm spring day, providing ideal conditions for evaluation and fun. With calm waters, clear skies, and minimal wind, the setting was perfect for assessing the boat's capabilities.

Regal Marine, Victoria's long-standing and successful Malibu/Axis dealer, hosted the test, with their experienced team providing a warm welcome at the Eildon Boat Club. Following an extensive session on the water, exploring the A22's features and performance, I was thoroughly impressed. The boat's capabilities and value proposition left a lasting impression, making it a compelling purchase consideration.

Fully Loaded 

The Axis A22 is equipped with an impressive array of standard features, making it an exceptional wakeboat. Notably, the Wakebox 900 Ballast System, featuring three hard-tank, sub-floor ballast tanks totalling 400kg, allows for customisable wake profiles via dash-mounted control panels. An optional Plug N' Play ballast system adds a further 590kg of ballast capacity.

The innovative Skybox Slide Seating arrangement provides flexibility and comfort, enabling rear-seat passengers to participate in the action or relax, while also optimising weight distribution for ideal wake creation.

Standard features include cruise control, a removable fibreglass boarding platform, Axis board racks, and a bimini top for the FatAX wakeboard tower. Optional features include a premium stereo and air/lake temperature gauges.

Measuring 22ft (6.7m), the A22 is considered a highly advanced wakeboarding machine, offering ample space for family and friends. Its performance is impressive, generating a smooth, perfect wake at 18.9kts (35kmh).

A notable optional feature is the Auto-set Wedge, adding 450kg of displacement, which creates an ideal wake without additional ballast, further enhancing the A22's capabilities.

The Bear Test 

The Axis A22 was an absolute pleasure to drive, exhibiting handling characteristics reminiscent of Malibu's popular VLX model, but at a more accessible price point. The steering was light and responsive, with the throttle providing excellent feedback and response.

The impressive power from the gutsy 335hp Indmar EFI engine, paired with a 14.5in/14.75in prop, delivered commanding power with impressive torque for launching heavy loads including boarders out in back. A booster seat at the helm would have been a welcome addition, although less of an issue for taller drivers.

The bow stays high, even when loaded with passengers keeping the crew safe and dry, while the innovative Skybox Slide Seating and pickle fork bow design provided ample space and seating comfort. Overall, the Axis A22 impressed all on board with its blend of performance, features, value, abilities and power. It's presentation to our Australian market is very welcome to purist wakeboarding enthusiasts and families alike.

Pro's

• Visually stunning

• Mega wake

• Helm control

• Standard features and options

• Price point

• Horsepower

• Comfort levels

• Ballast system

• Pickle Fork bow

Cons 

• Could do with a bolster seat

Specifications

Options fitted: Registered tandem trailer with paint over galvanising, removable carpet, Plug N’ Play ballast system, and entertainment system.

General

Type:   Rear-mount wakeboat

Length (LOA):  6.7m

Beam:  2.5m

Weight (boat only):    Approx. 1680kg

Weight (on trailer):     Approx. 2281kg

Capacities

Fuel: 180lt

People: 13

Rec. min. HP: 335

Rec. max. HP: 400

Engine

Make/model: 335hp Indmar EFI

Type: V8 petrol

Rated HP: 335

Displacement: 5.7lt

Gearbox Ratio: 1.5:1

Supplied by Regal Marine, Vermont, Vic.

Manufactured by Malibu Boats Pty Ltd.

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