If you're looking for a solid PWC this season, the 2024 vx deluxe is easily one of the most balanced options out there. It's always been that "middle child" in the Yamaha lineup, but I mean that in the best way possible. It isn't a stripped-down budget model, yet it doesn't carry the eye-watering price tag of the luxury or high-performance race craft. For most families or casual riders, this is usually the sweet spot where you get the most bang for your buck.
Choosing a jet ski—or WaveRunner, if we're being brand-specific—can feel a bit overwhelming lately because there are just so many trims. But Yamaha seems to have doubled down on what makes the VX series work: reliability, a decent bit of tech, and a hull that doesn't make you feel like you're riding a bucking bronco when the water gets a little choppy.
That New 1.9-Liter Engine
The biggest talking point for the 2024 vx deluxe has to be what's under the seat. Yamaha swapped out the old 1.8-liter high-output engine for a brand-new 1.9-liter naturally aspirated motor. Now, on paper, a 0.1-liter increase might not sound like a life-changing event, but you can actually feel the difference when you're out on the lake.
It's got a bit more "oomph" when you squeeze the throttle. It's not going to rip your arms out of their sockets like a supercharged GP1800R, but it gets on plane quickly and has a very smooth power delivery. The acceleration feels more linear and refined. Plus, because it's naturally aspirated (meaning no supercharger), it's generally going to be easier to maintain and much better on fuel. If you're planning on spending the whole Saturday out on the river, your wallet will thank you at the gas pump.
Another cool thing about the 1.9L is the redesigned engine cover and cooling system. Yamaha clearly put some thought into making this thing run cooler and quieter. When you're idling through a no-wake zone, it's remarkably hushed, which is great if you actually want to talk to the person sitting behind you without screaming.
Handling and the NanoXcel2 Hull
The hull is still made from Yamaha's NanoXcel2 material. If you aren't a total gearhead, all you really need to know is that it's way lighter than traditional fiberglass but still incredibly strong. This weight savings is a huge part of why the 2024 vx deluxe feels so nimble.
When you throw it into a turn, it bites. It doesn't slide around uncontrollably, which gives you a lot of confidence if you're a beginner. At the same time, it's got enough personality that an experienced rider won't get bored after ten minutes. It's stable enough that you don't feel like you're going to tip over the second a boat wake hits you from the side, which is a major plus if you're carrying passengers.
Speaking of passengers, the VX platform is surprisingly roomy. It's rated for three people, and while three full-grown adults might be a tight squeeze for a long trip, it's perfect for two adults and a kid, or just two people who want a bit of personal space.
The Tech That Actually Matters
Yamaha's RiDE system is back, and honestly, I don't know how we lived without it. For the uninitiated, RiDE is Yamaha's dual-throttle handlebar system. The right lever is for going forward, and the left lever is for reverse and deceleration.
It's so intuitive that you'll probably master it in about five minutes. There's no shifting gears or clunky mechanical sounds. If you're coming into a dock a little too hot, you just pull the left lever, and the machine slows down smoothly while keeping the nose level. It makes maneuvering in tight spaces—like a crowded marina or a narrow launch ramp—so much less stressful.
Then there's the Connext display. It's a 4.3-inch color screen that handles everything from your speed and fuel levels to some pretty cool "drive control" features. You can actually set top-speed limits, which is a lifesaver if you're letting your teenagers take the 2024 vx deluxe out for a spin and you want to make sure they aren't going full-throttle across the bay.
Comfort and Storage Space
Let's talk about the "Deluxe" part of the name. One of the main things that separates this from the base VX is the seat. It's a bit more ergonomic, with better stitching and a shape that keeps you locked in place without feeling restrictive. It's comfortable enough for those long-distance runs where you're exploring miles of coastline.
Storage is another area where this model shines. You've got a massive bow storage compartment where you can toss life jackets, a small anchor, or a dry bag. But my favorite part is the glove box. It's actually watertight and fairly deep, with a dedicated spot for your phone and a USB port. Having a place to keep your phone safe and charging while you're out on the water is one of those small conveniences that makes a big difference.
There's also some under-seat storage, though that's usually where I keep the fire extinguisher and maybe some emergency tools. Overall, there's plenty of room for all the snacks and gear you'd need for a full day.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
You might be wondering if you should step up to the 2024 vx deluxe or just stick with the base model—or maybe go all the way up to the Cruiser or Limited versions.
The base VX is great, but you miss out on the nicer seat and some of the trim features. On the flip side, the VX Cruiser adds the "cruiser" bolstered seat and usually comes with factory-installed speakers. If you really want music, the VX Deluxe can be ordered with the integrated audio system, which sounds surprisingly clear even when you're moving at a decent clip.
Personally, I think the Deluxe is the smartest buy for someone who wants a premium feel without paying for every single bell and whistle. You get the 1.9L engine, the RiDE system, and the upgraded hull, which are the things that actually impact your ride quality every single day.
Real-World Performance
When you get the 2024 vx deluxe out on the open water, it tops out somewhere in the neighborhood of 53 to 55 mph, depending on the conditions and how many cheeseburgers you had for lunch. That's plenty fast for most people. Sure, there are skis that go 70 mph, but unless you're racing, you're rarely going to be pinned at that speed anyway.
What's more impressive is the mid-range grunt. When you're cruising at 30 mph and you need to jump over a wake or accelerate out of a turn, the 1.9L engine responds instantly. It's snappy. It also handles "choppy" water better than some of the smaller, lighter Rec-Lite models (like the Spark or the EX series). It has enough weight and hull depth to cut through the small stuff rather than bouncing over it, which makes for a much drier and more comfortable ride.
Maintenance and Long-Term Value
One reason Yamaha has such a loyal following is that their stuff just tends to last. The 2024 vx deluxe is built on a very proven platform. Since it doesn't have a supercharger, there are fewer moving parts to worry about, and the maintenance schedule is pretty straightforward. Change the oil, swap the spark plugs, and keep it clean—that's about all it takes to keep these things running for years.
Resale value on these is also historically strong. Because they're known as reliable family boats, there's always a market for them if you decide to upgrade in a few years.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the 2024 vx deluxe is just a very "honest" watercraft. It doesn't pretend to be a race monster, and it isn't trying to be a cheap entry-level toy. It's a high-quality, dependable, and genuinely fun machine that works for almost everyone.
Whether you're into tow sports like tubing, or you just want to go out and find a quiet cove to hang out in, it handles it all with ease. If you want a PWC that feels modern, safe, and powerful enough to keep you smiling, this is definitely one to put at the top of your list. It's a solid investment in your summer, and honestly, it's hard to find much to complain about with this year's updates.