PDB Shootout: Lexington

Quick Glance

As the pontoon industry continues to evolve, it’s important for manufacturers such as Lexington to continue to build a wide range of value-driven models that ensures the next generation will grow up pontooning. That’s why the 525 X-Treme makes a lot of sense for those shopping for a great all-around boat that falls between an entry-level pontoon and a high-end one.  

Highlights

The 5 Series is considered to be Lexington’s mid-range line and we can appreciate the budget-friendly price coupled with a long list of standard features and key options designed to make life on the water more comfortable.

The controls for the standard electric Bimini are found on the dash of the raised helm console that includes a Simrad touchscreen with analog gauges on each side with two rows of push buttons below as well as access to the Boss Bluetooth stereo system.

The fully adjustable high back captain’s chair incorporates the same quilted pattern accent color found in the rest of the seating and is equally as comfortable. The boat is rated for up to 12 passengers and there are plenty of comfy seats for everyone including a port chaise in the bow and a second lounge directly across from the helm. However, the most coveted spot on the boat is most likely going to be the fixed rear-facing lounger in the stern that is safely located within the rails. Below this extra-wide lounger is a pop-up changing room that stands at 5 feet tall when fully open. If we had to be picky, we’d like to see this enclosure stand a little taller so it could be used by more people.

As you make your way out through the stern gate, there is a small swim deck, complete with a very tall ski/tow bar and a four-step boarding ladder. Other highlights include SeaWeave Infinity Woven Vinyl flooring, LED interior, docking and navigation lights and at least 10 cupholders including four extra-deep ones built into the bow table.   

Closer Look

Below deck the 28.5-inch diameter pontoons give this pontoon amazing lift and natural bow rise as the boat sits on top of the water with the extra flotation. There are lifting strakes on all three pontoons as well as a partial aluminum underskin. Above deck the rail height stands nearly 26 inches tall around the entire perimeter for a very safe and consistent design. 

Performance

A 200hp outboard comes standard, but as tested the pontoon included the maximum-sized 250hp from Suzuki Marine. At full throttle we easily reached speeds in the mid 40s with a zero-to-20 mph time of just under five seconds! With the standard hydraulic steering she handles well and even banked a little in the sharp turns, earning her a high “fun factor” score from our testing crew.

Final Thoughts

The larger diameter pontoons make more of a difference than you might think. This is a smooth-riding, mid-range pontoon that is priced well with a long list of standard features.  

Americus, Ga.
678-699-8811                    
www.lexingtonpontoons.com

SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Occupants: 12                 
Price As Tested With Power: $50K
Maximum Speed: 45.1 mph               
Wild Ponies: 250 hp   
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 4.94 seconds       
Ladder Measurement: 3’ 6” deep

Why we love this boat…With room for up to 12 on board, there are plenty of comfortable seats for everyone in this fully-loaded yet value-priced pontoon. 

Just being picky…Built in the rear-lounger is a pop-up changing room that is a great addition, but we wish it was a little taller so it could accommodate more users.   

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Mechanical Tilt Steering System, Fully Adjustable High Back Captain’s Chair, Electric Bimini, Simrad Touchscreen, Upgraded Furniture Pkg., Chaise Lounge Seating, Rear Folding Swim Ladder, UV Treated Fabric for Cover and 9-Inch Bimini, Sea Grass Vinyl Flooring, 28.5-Inch Diameter Toons, Backlit Instrument (Panel, Tachometer, Speedometer, Voltmeter), 12V Accessory Receptacle & USB Port, LED Interior Courtesy Lighting, LED Docking and Navigation Lights, 200hp Motor, Hydraulic Steering, Stainless Steal Prop, and Bluetooth Compatible Stereo w/ FM/AM Radio and Waterproof Speakers.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
None

VITAL STATS
LOA: 26’ 4”     
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Triple Pontoon
Dry Weight: 3,100 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 32

TEST DRIVE
Engine: Suzuki 250
Cylinder Type: V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 245.6ci/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.08:1

RPM     vs.      SPEED    
500                  1.7                   
1000                4.9                 
1500                6.0                   
2000                8.4       
2500                10.3                 
3000                14.1                 
3500                19.7                 
4000                24.7               
4500                30.8               
5000                35.5                 
5500                38.9               
6000                45.1                  

PRICE
Price As Tested (Boat and Motor): $49,995
Base Price (Boat Only): $34,995

This article originally appeared in our 2020 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.