Sea-Doo Unveils 2017 PWC Lineup

Freestyle-minded Spark, new midrange engines among highlights

Given the multiple innovations of recent years – the Spark, new low and high-end ACE engine models, and the introduction of the lightweight PolyTec hull material – it seemed almost inevitable that Sea-Doo would ultimately expand these technologies to more models. And judging by the lineup revealed to dealers August 16th in Orlando, that time has come. A new midrange ACE engine, expanded use of the Spark’s 900 HO ACE engine and PolyTec construction, and a “tricky” Spark are all on the menu for 2017 as Sea-Doo focuses on fun, affordability, and performance.

The SPARK Turns Tricks

Since its heralded introduction in 2014, the Spark has been an obvious hit for Sea-Doo. Given that success, it’s no big surprise that the craft returns for ’17 with its familiar ’16 color hues (Blueberry, Key Lime, Chili Pepper, Pineapple, and Vanilla), low entry-level price point, two or three-up configuration, and choice of 60 or 90hp Rotax 900 ACE engines.

So what’s new? The freestyle-minded Spark TRIXX. Offering several new innovations – including a handlebar with adjustable riser, step wedges, and extended range variable trim – the Spark TRIXX is designed to make all those tricks people were already trying with the Spark, like tail stands, power slides, 180 hops and more, that much easier and within the reach of a wider audience. The adjustable handlebar riser is made from aluminum and offers the rider greater leverage over the craft; the step wedges promise a better footing when getting all extreme; and the extended-range variable trim doubles the range of the current VTS to pop the bow into the air at the first punch of the throttle.

The Spark TRIXX promises to stand out at the beach as well, decked out in an exclusive Candy Blue & Chili Pepper coloration, with additional graphics for both deck and hull.

GTI Family Gets PolyTec, 900 HO ACE Engines

The Spark’s PolyTec hull material will trickle “up” for 2017, as will the Rotax 900 HO ACE engine. With an eye on affordability and fuel efficiency, the lightweight construction material and advanced-combustion-efficiency engine will now be featured in the rec-minded GTI family models, including the GTS, GTI, and GTI SE. The combination allows Sea-Doo to bring the models in at lower price points than previously possible, and thanks in part to the lightness of the hull, offers greater fuel savings (Sea-Doo claims a full 30% better) than the previous versions of the craft featuring the Rotax 1503 4-TEC.

GTI models continue to get the second generation of Sea-Doo’s Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR). iBR shortens stopping distance by almost 160’ at speed, while providing intuitive forward, neutral and reverse handling at low speed.

Expect a bright palette of colors for the Recreation-class GTIs, with Sunrise Orange on the GTI SE, Manta Green on the GTI, and Orange Crush on the GTS. The GTI SE will also be offered in classic Black for those that prefer tamer color options. Not jumping on the PolyTec bandwagon is the GTI Limited 155, which returns with conventional hull construction and last year’s engine bathed in ’16’s familiar Jet Black Metallic and Deep Pewter Satin.

New Engine For Midrange Luxury, Sport, Tow Sports Models

With ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) engines now covering the high and low-end of the spectrum, a midrange ACE seemed inevitable. The new 1500 HO ACE debuts in the Sea-Doo GTX Limited 230, GTR-X 230, GTR 230, and WAKE Pro 230, giving the brand more punch in this midrange portion of the lineup. The 1500 HO ACE engine boasts 15% more horsepower than the previous supercharged 1503 4-TEC engine and includes advancements in combustion and cooling efficiency to produce that power without adding size. It’s also notable for being optimized for regular – not premium – fuel, and like the 1630 ACE introduced in 2016, features a maintenance-free supercharger.

While all these craft stand out thanks to their new power, the GTR-X 230 deserves special mention. The craft not only gets the new engine, but also the top deck of the RXP-X, meaning all elements of the ErgoLock system – ErgoLock seat, Adjustable Ergonomic Steering handlebar, and angled footwell wedges – will now be accessible at a lower price point.

Returning unchanged? The RXT 260, RXT-X 300, and RXP-X 300, the latter models all featuring the 300hp Rotax 1630 ACE. All Performance models feature iBR, high-performance variable trim, and race-inspired coloration and graphics.

Stay Tuned…

In a switch from the norm, Sea-Doo kept all these models a secret from the press prior to the mid-August dealer reveal. Look for our standard in-depth reviews following actual test rides later this month.