2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155 Review

Fuel efficient and affordable craft with much improved stability

Sea-Doo’s latest generation GTX platform generated a lot of buzz upon its introduction in 2018, revealing innovative new features and enhanced stability. Naturally, flagship models using the platform – GTX LIMITED, WAKE PRO 230, RXT-X 300 and for 2019 the FISH PRO – hogged most of that spotlight, but savvy buyers may have also noticed that all of that newfound innovation and stability could also be had in the 2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155, a fuel-efficient model that still offers plenty of power but won’t break the bank at the dealership or gas pump.

Innovation Machine

Rather than a tweak or three, Sea-Doo re-envisioned the GTX platform almost in its entirety.

Let’s work our way from the bottom up. The hull has been compared to the RXP-X, and like that craft features two sets of chines, one slightly reversed to increase the craft’s stability and another adding width to the hull and really enhancing the craft’s rock-solid feel at rest. Meanwhile, the entry has been sharpened considerably. Deadrise still lists at 20 degrees, but the steeper vee at the bow sharpens the boat’s cornering ability while also allowing the hull to cleave through offshore waves. Dimensions? The new platform is 3” longer, 1” wider, yet weight is trimmed.

The deck, meanwhile, is newly low slung with a lowered center of gravity. You can see it immediately in the boat’s profile. Driver sits about 1.5” lower than the previous design and passengers as much as 3”. Footwells have correspondingly been recessed further into the deck. All those pics you may have seen of body builders and yoga types doing crazy things atop the GTX? They’re all true. At rest, the 2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155 is now far more stable than any watercraft before and I boarded from the side and stood with all my weight in port then starboard footwells to prove it.

With this newfound emphasis on at-rest stability as well as at-speed performance, other innovations were introduced. An already large rear deck area now features the LinQ cargo system, pop-up cleats that rise above the deck surface to anchor a variety of accessories, including a welcome 4.2-gallon cooler, 4-gallon gas caddy, 5.5-gallon dry bag, and a retooled retractable ski pylon. Long-distance touring riders will especially appreciate the cooler and gas caddy. Cam-style latches secure each solidly in place as well as allow each item to be completely removed and the deck returned to flat space. The seat is also now modular, with the aft half now removable to lighten the load or open up even more platform space (think coving sun bed or casting deck for fishing).

And then there’s the new take on bow storage. Recognizing the awkwardness of reaching items in the commonly used forward storage when out on the water, Sea-Doo moved the compartment directly in front of the rider, effectively putting the handlebar assembly on one massive lid. It’s incredibly practical and convenient, even if storage space is technically reduced by about 15 gallons (I’m betting you won’t even notice the difference) and the glovebox is reduced to little more than a cellphone holder (this one proved a little more noticeable, as now accessing an item as simple as a water bottle requires you to raise the main compartment lid rather than just reach into the glovebox).

Improved Handling, New Display/Audio System

That new hull of the 2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155 proves more stable than ever before, but also more responsive during aggressive riding. Changes in direction happen with RXP-X-like quickness, as the hull literally charges in and out of corners. The craft’s offshore pedigree has also greatly improved, with a confident manner in waves that racers and offshore distance riders alike should appreciate.

Yes, the 2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155 sports less power than many of its GTX platform siblings. The obvious difference is the lack of a supercharger/intercooler combo, meaning response isn’t as brutally aggressive and top speed averages more around the 55 mph mark. Still, the 1,494cc Rotax produces plenty of thrust for aggressive performance riding and all manners of watersports towing. And, it also consumes considerably less fuel while doing so, a bonus for touring riders or those whose focus is more on overall fun or greater distance between gas stops. Cruise control, no-wake mode, ECO mode, and the familiar Touring and Sport modes are all still included, as is fast-acting electric trim and the latest generation of Sea-Doo’s celebrated Intelligent Brake & Reverse. The stepped, ErgoLock saddle also cradles the driver for more comfort and security.

New for ’19? A 7.6” widescreen display, with large digital numbers and auto-dimming backlight. One notable cool kid option? You’ve probably heard (pardon the pun) about BRP Audio Premium. It’s BRP’s very affordable ($800) 100-watt Bluetooth sound system, with dual speakers and touchpad control. Yes, I wish the control was a little closer to the handlebars, but sound quality is impressive and a waterproof case with foam padding is now provided for your smarthphone in the retooled glovebox.

Toughest competitor for the 2019 Sea-Doo GTX 155? That would be Yamaha’s FX HO, a craft sharing a similar flagship platform with naturally aspirated engine. New for the FX HO in ’19? A refashioned top deck, industry first color touchscreen, and the very affordable Multi-Mount accessory system to attach wireless, waterproof EcoXGear Bluetooth speakers and/or Garmin GPS Fishfinder.

Both craft offer flagship hull, deck and features at very competitive price tags.