PDB Shootout: G3

Quick Glance

This model first debuted last year and after seeing the 2020 version we’re still very much impressed. A lot of thought and detail went into the layout that includes a very versatile floorplan.

Highlights

The Elite series incorporates luxury, comfort and performance and on the SL, which stands for “stern lounge,” the multi-use section is arguably the focal point. Lounge combinations include forward- or rear-facing flip-back bench seating, booth-style seating with a pedestal table, or a double-wide tanning platform when the padded flip-back is in the lowest position. Plus regardless of how you use this lounge, there is ample space below for additional storage. In fact, when it comes to places to stash life jackets, towels, water toys, etc., this SunCatcher has plenty to offer including a box/bench seat behind the captain’s chair and an in-floor ski locker that is 13 inches deep and over 6 feet long inside. 

Built into the base of the port bow chaise is a designated spot for the ski pylon that is very well hidden and accessible by opening up the side door. This same cubby also doubles as the space for the pop-up changing room that stands 5 feet, 6 inches tall when open.

One of the best qualities of the reclining and adjustable first-mate chair is the identical one for the driver on a raised platform. Also for the captain is a large Simrad touchscreen centered on the dash with multi-function gauges on each side. There are toggle switches on the right of the steering wheel with access to the Kicker Audio stereo controls on the other. We especially like the glove box on the side of the helm with a 12-volt plug inside so you can charge your phone while keeping it out of the sun.

In the stern just outside the stainless gate is a great swim deck with a 4-step ladder with narrow handholds at the top. If we had to be picky, we’d like to see the ladder a little wider, but it still reaches plenty deep when folded down.

Closer Look

Three U-shaped pontoons with a full-length aluminum underdeck performance shield is the foundation of this well-built boat. All SunCatcher pontoons feature the extra protection of heavier gauge aluminum in the nose cones and closed-cell foam flotation blocks inside each tube for an added measure of safety. Speaking of safety, the lowest rail stands nearly 25 inches tall in the stern with the majority of the boat measuring at 29 inches.

Performance

The combination of the big Yamaha 225 SHO outboard and the SunCatcher hull creates a very quick and fun-to-drive thrill ride. At full throttle we reached a top speed of 40 mph while showcasing a very impressive zero-to-20 mph time of just over four seconds! She’s clearly quick to plane and handles well for a great all-around boat. 

Final Thoughts

For those dreaming of a high-end luxury pontoon with a versatile floorplan and comfortable plush seating for up to 14 passengers, this SunCatcher Elite 326 SL is worthy of a closer look. G3 engineers have been working some overtime hours lately to take this line of pontoon boats to the next level and we love what we’re seeing.  

Lebanon, Mo.
800-588-9787
www.g3boats.com

SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Occupants: 14                 
Price As Tested With Power: $73.5 K
Maximum Speed: 40.2 mph               
Wild Ponies: 225 hp   
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 4.84 seconds       
Ladder Measurement: 3’ 9” deep

Why we love this boat…From the versatile stern lounger to the thoughtful amenities, there is a lot of value on this SunCatcher that also performs very well.  

Just being picky…The rear boarding ladder is plenty deep so that’s not an issue; we just wish the handholds were a little wider at the top so it was easier to use.   

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Roto Molded Furniture w/Rain Drain Channel, Wraparound Lounge Seating w/Under Seat Storage, Privacy Enclosure, Anodized Deck Rails and Trim, ABS Pedestal Table w/ Cupholders, Blue LED Mood Lighting, Custom Stern Lounge Area w/Storage, Floor Level Courtesy Lights, Deluxe Console w/Full Instrumentation, SeaStar Power Assist Steering, Premium Kicker Stereo w/Four Blue Light Speakers, Simrad Go7, Yamaha Binnacle Controls, Elevated Helm Platform, Ski/Tow and Performance Lifting Strakes.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Black Painted Rails, Sunbrella Canvas Upgrade and Woodgrain Flooring Pattern.

VITAL STATS
LOA: 26’ 5”     
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Tri-Log Pontoon
Dry Weight: 3,320 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 38 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine: Yamaha VF 225 SHO
Cylinder Type: V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 256.3ci/225hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 1.75:1

RPM     vs.      SPEED    
500                  2.9                 
1000                3.6                 
1500                5.6                 
2000                7.5                 
2500                8.0                 
3000                8.9                 
3500                12.3               
4000                16.1               
4500                21.5               
5000                27.4               
5500                32.7               
6000                40.2                                                    

PRICE
Price As Tested (Boat and Motor): $73,495
Base Price (Boat w/ 115hp Yamaha): $61,995

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