Pontoons
Malibu Response LX Boats for Sale
The Malibu Response LX is a legendary direct-drive ski boat that delivers world-class slalom performance with added space and comfort. Designed for serious skiers who also want family versatility, the LX combines Malibu’s soft, flat wakes with an open-bow design, efficient handling, and durable craftsmanship that has made it one of the most respected ski boats ever built.
The Malibu Response LX was introduced in 1998 as an evolution of the original Malibu Response that first appeared in 1996. Malibu designed the LX to maintain the tournament level precision of the closed bow Response while adding an open bow and rear trunk storage for greater comfort and usability. Built on Malibu’s proven Diamond hull, the LX was engineered to produce minimal wakes, excellent tracking, and balanced performance at all slalom speeds.
Measuring 20 feet 6 inches in length with a beam of 90 inches, the Response LX offered a perfect mix of performance and practicality. Its lightweight fiberglass construction and direct drive engine placement provided centered weight distribution and predictable handling. The Diamond hull allowed for soft, symmetrical wakes at ski speeds while maintaining versatility for recreational wakeboarding or cruising.
Power options included Indmar and Monsoon inboard engines that produced between 310 and 340 horsepower depending on the model year. The LX also featured Malibu’s first integrated trunk storage system and open bow seating configuration, giving it broader family appeal than traditional tournament boats.
Inside, the Response LX featured a classic Malibu layout with premium vinyl, ergonomic driver controls, analog gauges, and seating for up to seven passengers. Over its production run Malibu refined the model with updated dashboards, PerfectPass speed control, and improved interior materials.
The LX remained a cornerstone of Malibu’s ski lineup until the mid 2000s when it was succeeded by the Response LXI. Today the Malibu Response LX remains one of the most admired crossover ski boats of its era, offering championship level performance with real world comfort and usability.