With its new sleek exterior and integrated docking lights, the latest mid-level model from Bennington Marine makes the LX Sport reminiscent of the ultra high-end RX Sport. Of course the massive wakeboard tower and the 300hp outboard on the model we tested only added to its sporty vibe. At the top of its L Series, the LX Sport provides a premium look and feel with an attractive price point. We were immediately drawn to it when it first pulled up to the docks, and after a day on the water it clearly didn't disappoint.
Quality craftsmanship has always been a Bennington staple and it's arguably what the Indiana-based manufacturer is best known for.
“Every line we draw, every detail, everything we do has a purpose and aims to deliver excellence,” said Michael Shedivy, general manager at Bennington Marine. “Each year, when we improve upon and expand our offerings, we do so with the goal to make every model year the best for Bennington and our customers. This year, we have exceeded that goal.”
LX Sport Interior
The attention to detail, and rich, luxurious finishes are found throughout the interior of the LX Sport with distinguished embroidery and custom winged logos. The color scheme on the specific model we tested was elegant with multiple greys and a luminous blue accent color to tie it all in. Speaking of going all-in, the dash on the standard elevated helm matches the sporty vibe and is centered on a 7-inch Garmin touchscreen with a row of rocker switches below. To the left of the stainless steel Corvina steering wheel are the controls to the upgraded Rockford Fosgate sound system that includes six speakers, plus an amp and subwoofer. We always like to see a place to store small items on any boat we review, so we were happy to find a locking glove box (with a USB charging port inside) built into this helm. It is located just to the right side of the elegant wheel from Gussi Italia.
Swing And A Hit
Just past the identical dual Pure Comfort reclining helm chairs is the Swingback layout, which enables multiple seating capabilities by allowing users to face forward or backward depending on the position of the furniture back. The popular layout is a hit and adds versatility to the comfortable seating on board. We also appreciate the lighted stern speakers and a stainless steel keeper rail for added safety.
Added Touches
Every detail matters and Bennington seems to understand this the best. Most of its extended aft deck models – including this LX Sport – come standard with the pet-friendly LilliPad Revo swim ladder for easy boarding. The ladder angle ensures getting back on board from the water is simplified in every way. Also worth noting, the stainless steel pop-up cleats are also standard. Not only does the low profile look great, the cleats are there when you need them for docking but much easier on the feet when you don't.
What's Below?
As impressive as the layout and features are above deck, it's what Bennington has going on below that doesn't get enough recognition at times. Bennington's legendary Elliptical Sport Package (ESP) offers top-of-the-line performance and comfort while adding stability and maneuverability. The unique hull maximizes water displacement with quick planing and handling characteristics that rival fiberglass sport boats.
It includes two 25-inch diameter outer pontoons with performance foils, splash fins, and .100 gauge aluminum tubes, Wavetamer, and its patented 32-inch elliptical center pontoon with lifting strakes. Engineered for higher horsepower applications and rated up to 450hp, ESP is an option, but after running it we could make a strong case for it being a must-have upgrade.
Throttle Down
Engaging performance meshes with a captivating sporty style to produce a thrilling ride. With the Yamaha 300hp outboard on the back we reached speeds in the mid 40s at full throttle with a zero-to-20 mph time of just 4 seconds. Translation: the removable and optional 54-inch aluminum ski pylon won't stay hidden below the seats for very long. She banks beautifully in the sharp turns, handles great, and is a joy to drive.
Final Thoughts
As tested with the Yamaha 300hp outboard with the listed features, you're looking at around$152K. A base price of just the boat and its standard features comes in around $83K. We see a considerable amount of added value on this model and enjoyed the balance of the standard and optional features with the Yamaha power, but it is nice to know you could take fewer options and less power if you're looking to hit a specific price for your budget.
Specifications
LOA: 25’9”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: ESP Performance
Dry Weight: 3,828 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 32 gals.
Engine: Yamaha 300hp
Cylinder Type: V6
Displacement/Horsepower: 4.2L/300hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Propeller: 15 1/5 x 16 SW Series II
Top Speed: 44.7 mph
0 to 20 mph: 4.0 seconds
Notable Standards
Portable Armrest w/2 SS Cupholders & Side Mesh Pocket, 27 Quart Cooler Seat Insert, SS & Woodgrain Accents Throughout, 37 Gal Fuel Tank, SS Corvina Steering Wheel, Swingback Stern Lounger, Two-Tone Vinyl Furniture, Mega Pan Fuel System, Simtex Vinyl Upholstery, 2 USB Charge Station w/Volt Meter; 1 USB w/Quick Charge 3.0 & 1 USB-C Port, LX Sport Upholstery, Duraframe Seat Bases, Fire Extinguisher, Blue Ice LED Illuminated Kicker Speakers (4), Captain and Co-Captain Seating Pure-Comfort Reclining Helm Chairs w/Integrated Headrests, 2 Chaise Lounges, Powder Coated Seat Hinges, SS Rimmed Cupholders, Exterior 25" Diameter Pontoons, 6" SS Cleats & Corner Castings, Anodized Raised Rails, Extended Aft Deck Full Length Extruded Anodized Skirting, Heavy Duty Rub Rail, Large Radius Bow Rails w/ 24" Wide Gate, SS Deck Bolts (Fanged Elevator Bolts secured w/Stainless Steel Nylock Nut, Surlast Mooring Cover, Underdeck Spray Deflectors, Flush Bow Deck, 32" Wide Stern Gate, 18” Stern Deck, Mooring Cover Quick Clips, Full Height Panels, Swingback Lighted Stern Speakers, Extruded Splash Guards, Rounded Solid Keels, Open Sport Arch, Streamline Rail System w/Four Large Louvers, LilliPad Marine Revo Boarding Ladder, .250" Thick Bow & Stern Cross Channels, 12-Volt Receptacle, Custom Sterling Gauge Pkg, Illuminated Rocker Switches w/Dash Mounted Breakers, Low Profile Windscreen, Sealed Deutsch Connectors, Zebra Wood Slate Dash Accents, Tilt Steering, Elevated Helm, Locking Helm Glove Box w/12-Volt, Aux & USB, Rockford Fostgate PMX Stereo System, and Fiberglass Console w/Side Access Door & Bench Back Access.
Options
Power Hydraulic Assist, Rockford Fosgate Audio Package (6 Speakers, Amp, Sub), SS Rub Rail, SS Swingback Keeper Rail, In-Floor Storage, Removable Gate Seat, ESP Performance Pkg., Aluminum 54-inch Ski Pylon, Yamaha Saltwater Anode ESP/SPS Pkg., RGB Interior Lighting Package (4 Accent Lights, 7 Cup Holders), RGB Exterior Lighting Pkg. (Side/Underwater Illumination), Yamaha Mechanical and Garmin 943 Display (LXS).
