Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ Review
Reference price: around $73,672
Type: Pontoon boat
Weight: 2425 lbs
Capacity: 13 people
What we like about it: The reasonable spatial layout and detailed design give the rider a comfortable experience.
What we didn’t like about it: The price is not too friendly for people on a budget.
Rating (4.8/5)
As a leisure party boat, the design of the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ captures the hearts of many customers, and the reasons behind it are not difficult to understand. On one hand, with a size of 24’10”, the boat can accommodate up to 13 people for a gathering. This mid-sized pontoon boat is highly appealing to young party enthusiasts. On the other hand, the boat’s engine can reach a maximum horsepower of 300, providing ample power for various recreational activities, including water skiing.
Now, let’s provide a detailed introduction from several aspects, such as the driving experience, seating experience, layout details, and specifications of the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ.
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Driving Experience
With the arrival of spring and summer, it is the perfect season for outdoor activities. The weather has been sunny and beautiful in recent days. Bob recently purchased a used Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ and suggested going out with friends to relax, and everyone gladly agreed.
As soon as we stepped onto the boat, my first impression was that it had a spacious interior. Even with about ten people on board, it didn’t feel crowded at all. Bob went straight to the helm and sat down in the seat, leaning back with his arms resting on the armrests. There was also enough space beneath the console for his legs to stretch comfortably. When asked about his experience, Bob said, “This is incredible! The seat provides excellent support for the head and lower back. I don’t think I’ll feel any soreness even during long drives. The adjustable armrests also meet my different needs.”
Next, Bob placed his phone on the phone holder on the console and adjusted the height of the steering wheel. This made it more convenient for him to operate the boat according to his height. Then Bob started the engine, and the needles on the dashboard spun accordingly. He could easily grasp the data about boat speed, RPM, fuel, voltage, and other indicators, making the operation more effortless.
As time passed and the sunlight became more dazzling, Bob opened the Bimini top on the boat. This double-layered sunshade design provided better sun protection. As we approached the center of the lake, Bob turned on the boat’s stereo, connected his phone via Bluetooth, and the high-quality sound immediately emanated from the six speakers distributed throughout the bow and stern of the boat, igniting everyone’s enthusiasm.
Riding Experience
As I enjoyed the gentle breeze blowing in my ears, my friend David called me over to join their conversation. I retrieved the drinks we had prepared in the storage compartment beneath the console and sat down next to the L-shaped sofa beside the helm. I placed the drinks in the cup holders on the table in front of me, without worrying about spills.
Laughter and playfulness emanated from the back of the boat as Jeff and his group jumped into the water for a swim. The rear-entry ladder located at the stern made it easy for them to climb back onto the deck. Bob informed us that the boat’s engine can reach speeds of 46 to 48 miles per hour. If we were interested, we could also try water skiing. Michael immediately responded enthusiastically and invited me to join him, but feeling a bit tired, I politely declined. My favorite part was the two long sofas at the bow of the boat. They were incredibly comfortable and plush, making it a delight to rest on them with sunglasses on.
As we headed back, although the sky was getting dim, the illuminated cup holders ensured easy access to our drinks. The Concealed Mood Lights also came on, casting a blue glow that created a mysterious and charming atmosphere. The design of the docking lights ensured safety during nighttime navigation.
Specification
Helm
The comfort and functionality of the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ helm were truly top-notch in my experience. This boat is suitable for medium-sized party entertainment, while also considering the captain’s driving experience.
Firstly, the comfortable and spacious seats, along with the support for the head, neck, and waist, undoubtedly increased the captain’s comfort while driving. Secondly, the Gussi – Verona steering wheel supports vertical adjustment, allowing it to be tailored to the captain’s height and driving habits, further enhancing comfort. The inclusion of technological features such as the Hummingbird Depth Finder and GPS ensures a safer journey, allowing the captain to stay informed about the boat’s location and water conditions. The console, made of full fiberglass, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers superior strength and rigidity.
In addition, the Mercury power-assisted hydraulic steering provides smooth and stable steering, offering improved performance. Finally, various user-friendly designs have also won me over, such as the illuminated cup holders, ensuring convenient access to drinks even at night. The sound system and radio add enjoyment, making driving a more engaging experience.
Layout Details
The Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ pays great attention to detail in its layout.
Notably, the backrest of the rear sofa at the stern can be moved forward or backward, allowing adjustments for optimal comfort based on the occupants’ needs. This design is particularly cherished by sunbathers.
Furthermore, the foldable changing room is a thoughtful addition. For those coming ashore after swimming in the lake, having a simple changing room to switch into dry clothes while prioritizing privacy is excellent. Of course, if a restroom is needed during long trips, the curtain in the changing room provides convenient coverage. Moreover, this foldable design does not take up much space.
Lastly, the front door of the boat has a width of 30 inches. This spacious setting is friendly for elderly individuals who require a wheelchair or children in strollers. Their vehicles can easily board the boat, improving overall accessibility and enhancing the overall experience.
Basic Configuration
As a medium-sized party pontoon boat, the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ differs from traditional two-tube pontoons by incorporating a three-tube design. This type of design enhances the boat’s stability and performance, allowing for larger engines and higher speeds. However, it also results in increased manufacturing costs and larger dimensions.
In terms of exterior design, this boat features a sleek carbon fiber panel appearance. The black railing design is a standard feature of the X5 series and adds to the overall sophistication of the boat.
Storage has been carefully considered on this boat. Almost every sofa has storage space underneath, with some sofas incorporating foldable changing rooms in the backrest area. Additionally, the space below the console is suitable for storing storage boxes. For example, equipment like skis or wakeboards needed for recreational activities can be stored under the floor at the stern of the boat.
Other Versions
When mentioning other versions of this series, Bob told me that he did consider other similar boat models, such as the Sylvan MIRAGE X X3, before purchasing the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ. However, after comparing them, he ultimately chose the former based on his specific needs. Here’s a brief overview of the Sylvan MIRAGE X X3, which might be helpful for you.
Sylvan MIRAGE X X3
Both of these boats serve similar recreational and gathering purposes. However, there are differences in size and layout details.
Compared to the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ, the Sylvan MIRAGE X X3 is slightly smaller in size. The boat measures 22’10” in length, with a reduced maximum capacity of 12 people. In terms of layout, the X3 series includes a co-pilot seat on the left side of the helm, allowing for shared driving during long trips to avoid fatigue. Additionally, the X3 series does not feature the movable sofa backrest design found in the X5 series, which greatly enhances passenger comfort.
In reality, both the Sylvan MIRAGE X X3 and Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ are not considered budget-friendly options, especially for those with limited budgets. The added brand value contributes to their higher price range. If you’re seeking a more affordable boat, feel free to contact us.
What we like about it
- The foldable changing room meets the needs of passengers.
- The Bimini top effectively blocks direct sunlight.
- The steering wheel angle can be adjusted according to the driver’s height and driving habits.
- The boat’s maximum horsepower reaches 300, providing enough power for water sports and other recreational activities.
- Mercury power-assisted hydraulic steering ensures smooth maneuvering.
- The all-fiberglass console not only looks sleek but also offers superior strength and rigidity.
- The spacious door easily accommodates wheelchairs and strollers.
What we don’t like about it
- The price is somewhat expensive and may not be suitable for everyone.
- The larger size resulting from the three-tube pontoon design leads to higher costs for docking, storage, and towing.
FAQ
- How fast does a pontoon boat go?
As a recreational pontoon boat, the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ can reach a maximum horsepower of 300. It’s relatively fast among pontoon boats, providing sufficient power for recreational activities like water skiing.
2. How much weight can a pontoon boat hold?
This medium-sized pontoon boat has a maximum weight capacity of 1,835 pounds and can accommodate up to 13 people, making it a good choice for gatherings with larger groups.
3. Are pontoon boats easy to drive?
Certainly, driving a pontoon boat is not complicated. By familiarizing yourself with the functionalities of the helm and practicing cautious driving with safety as the top priority, you can easily acquire the skills to navigate the boat.
Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ SPECS
Standard
Max Horsepower | 300 hp |
Third Tube Max Horsepower | hp |
Beam | 102 in |
Dry Weight | 2425 lbs |
Max Persons | 13 / 1835 lbs |
Fuel Capacity | 38 gal |
Length | 24’10” |
Tube Gauge | .080 in |
Tube Diameter | 25 in |
Max Horsepower | 300 hp |
Third Tube Max Horsepower | hp |
Beam | 102 in |
Dry Weight | 2425 lbs |
Max Persons | 13 / 1835 lbs |
Fuel Capacity | 38 gal |
Length | 24’10” |
Tube Gauge | .080 in |
Tube Diameter | 25 in |
Optional
Mercury® FourStroke | USD |
Video
Comparison Table
Boats | Deck | Maximum horsepowerLimits | Maximum capacity limit |
Sunchaser ECLIPSE 8525 SSB | Overall length 25’10” | 350 HP | 14 persons |
Bennington SX25 Swingback | Overall length 26′ 9″ | 250HP | 14 persons |
Harris Cruiser 250 SL | Overall length 25′ 10″ | 300 HP | 15 persons |
Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ vs Sunchaser ECLIPSE 8525 SSB
Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ and Sunchaser ECLIPSE 8525 SSB both belong to the category of recreational pontoon boats, but they do have some differences in terms of layout and basic features.
Firstly, the Sunchaser ECLIPSE 8525 SSB is larger, with a total length of 25’10” and an increased maximum capacity of 14 people. Moreover, in terms of engine configuration, this boat has a higher maximum horsepower than the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ, with an additional 50HP, and the fuel capacity is also increased to 60 gallons. This means that the boat can have a longer range.
Lastly, in terms of layout, the Sunchaser ECLIPSE 8525 SSB has two facing sofas at the rear, making it more convenient to observe the facial expressions of friends. Additionally, the backrest behind the sofas can be adjusted flat according to your needs.
In summary, both boats are good choices, and you can make your selection based on your personal preferences.
Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ vs Bennington SX25 Swingback 25 SXSB
The Bennington brand is known for its iconic blue and white color scheme, which exudes a simple and classy aesthetic. Compared to the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ, the Bennington SX25 Swingback 25 SXSB offers a more spacious interior. However, one notable difference in the functional setup is that Bennington boats lack the convenient and practical feature of a collapsible changing room, which may overlook the need for privacy.
Nevertheless, the longer sofa in front of the Bennington boat’s helm seat serves multiple purposes. On one hand, it accommodates the need for lying down and resting, while on the other hand, if the sofa becomes crowded with passengers, it might obstruct the captain’s line of sight. However, in terms of comfort, I lean towards Bennington, as the soft and skin-friendly upholstery fabric truly captures my attention.
If you find yourself unsatisfied with either option, feel free to visit our homepage to explore more fishing pontoon boats of a similar kind.
Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ vs Harris Cruiser 250 SL
The Harris Cruiser 250 SL boat, compared to the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ, is larger and can accommodate a relatively greater number of people. It’s fantastic for those who love hosting gatherings with multiple guests.
Additionally, the Harris Cruiser 250 SL features a vinyl interior that offers the advantage of being mold and water-resistant. The high-quality vinyl is also easy to clean and maintain.
One design feature that delights me is the built-in USB chargers in the sofa backrests. There’s always a place to charge your phone without the need to go to the console specifically for charging.
Summary
if you’re looking for a party-oriented and leisurely pontoon boat for your family or group, the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ is undoubtedly a great choice. Particularly for larger groups, its spacious design and thoughtful details aim to provide safety and enhanced comfort.
Of course, if you have budget constraints, you can also consider our carefully selected affordable alternative to the Sylvan MIRAGE X X5 CLZ—the Watlsure Moments. They not only come at a lower price but also offer excellent performance. Contact us to learn more about our boat options.