Bennington has a sure winner with this new Q Series 27. The QR27 10 Wide is a huge craft with huge power: Twin 250 Yamaha four-strokes give it low-end power that rivals some of the quickest bass and performance boats. Zero-to-30 mph comes up ultra quick, in 4.2 seconds. Large-diameter pontoons with sealed-end lifting strakes guarantee flat turning and rough-water stability; length eliminates pitching in big rollers, ensuring serene ride comfort. Top speed is just over 51 mph, and best cruise is 15 mph at 2,000 rpm, where fuel economy is right at 2.4 mpg.
The optional electrically powered changing room is a nice touch. Optional color-changing LED mood lighting is strategically located around speakers and cup holders, as well as the sides and even underwater. The raised helm grants the pilot better visibility, and the Yamaha digital dash provides engine and cockpit information. The Yamaha controls with joystick docking are extremely precise and allow for pinpoint control — important when docking and maneuvering.
Our tester was equipped with the Elliptical Sport Package, giving us power-assisted hydraulic steering with an engine tie bar, twin cranking batteries with isolation switches, and an isolated house battery to power the accessories. Underneath, the decking and structure was assembled with all stainless-steel hardware and locking nuts.
The Napa Beige interior upholstery is elegant, and it wipes down easily. The flooring material is vinyl sea grass, offering a textured surface that’s still easily hosed off without retaining water. In the floor is a wide storage compartment that swallows watersports gear.
For sounds, Bennington uses a Kicker subwoofer system with amp upgrade. The three-wide loungers have nicely engineered folding armrests with cup holders. The captain’s chair is equally plush; it reclines, moves fore/aft and rotates. At the stern, two lounges face aft, with enhanced headrests and built-in grab handles.
High Points
* Contoured bow panels give a sleeker look than traditional vertical-bow pontoons.
* Yamaha 250 V-6s have ferocious low-end punch.
* Ten-foot-wide dinette model is a terrific setting for large groups.
* Furniture vinyl and stitching give a luxury look.
How We Tested
Engine: Twin Yamaha F250 250 hp four-strokes
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury 15.5" x 17" pitch Saltwater Series 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.0:1
Fuel Load: 21 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$193,367 (as tested)
Contact
Bennington Pontoons Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com
