MasterCraft has just released the 2026 X24. Is it worth upgrading to the current model? Learn here!
When the MasterCraft X24 hit the water in 2018 (as a 2019 model year release), it quickly set a new benchmark for premium surf boats. With its massive wave, luxury finishes, and innovative technology, the X24 has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and high-performing wake boats in the industry. Fast forward to 2026, and the latest X24 builds on that legacy with cutting-edge features, more comfort, and refined performance.
So, should you upgrade to the 2026 X24, or stick with an older model? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of the MasterCraft X24
The X24 has only been around for a handful of years, but it’s already become one of MasterCraft’s most iconic models. Each model year has brought meaningful updates that transformed the way boaters experience wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and long days on the water.
2019 Model Year – The Launch of the X24
MasterCraft first introduced the X24 in 2019. This was the debut of a boat built for riders who wanted the biggest, most customizable surf wave in the lineup. Equipped with the GEN2 Surf System and FastFill ballast technology, the X24 was immediately recognized as a game-changer.
- GEN2 Surf System: Allowed riders to shape waves with precision and consistency, no matter the water conditions.
- FastFill System: Cut ballast fill times dramatically, so you would spend less time waiting and more time riding.
The X24 quickly found its place as the go-to surf machine for families and pros alike. 
2022 – SurfStar Technology
By 2022, MasterCraft introduced SurfStar, replacing GEN2 as the new industry standard in wave shaping. SurfStar made switching sides faster, wave shapes even more customizable, and control more intuitive. The X24 with SurfStar opened the door for beginners and seasoned riders to dial in their perfect ride with ease.
2025 – MyDrive Encoder
The 2025 model year brought another leap with the MyDrive Encoder system, a feature that gave the driver an easier way to control boat settings. With the push of a button, riders could save their preferred speed, ballast, and wave settings, ensuring a consistent pull every time they got behind the boat. This upgrade made everything easier while out on the water ensuring that you’re having a great time. 
What’s New on the 2026 MasterCraft X24?
The 2026 X24 takes all the best parts of past models and layers in fresh innovation, comfort, and style. This year’s redesign puts a heavy focus on storage, ergonomics, and rider experience, making it more versatile than ever.
New Helm Design
The helm on the X24 has been completely redesigned to be the ultimate place for the driver to control the boat from. With dual digital displays featuring a 15-in panoramic screen in the center and a 12-in touchscreen to the right, you are able to easily drive the boat without a worry in the world.
Rear Storage with Surf Sleeves
The X24 already offered some of the best storage in its class, but the new 2026 model takes it up a notch. The rear storage compartments now feature built-in surf sleeves, allowing you to safely and conveniently store boards without sacrificing space.
SoundStage Audio Sound System
Music is an essential part of every day on the water, and the new SoundStage Audio sound system delivers richer, louder, and more immersive sound than ever before. Developed with audio experts at Meridian, this system is perfectly tuned for life on the water.
Z9 Tower Standard
The all-new Z9 tower is a fully powered tower that rises and lowers with the push of a button. This allows for effortless control from the helm making time on the water simple and easy.
Co-Captain Control Center
New to the X24 is the co-captain control center. Positioned next to the co-captain, this person now has the ability to make changes to the audio, lights, and switches. Taking the load off the captain, this innovative feature makes time on the water more entertaining.
Frameless Windshield
Have you ever thought about how much the frame of the windshield actually obstructs your view. Probably. After years of positioning yourself in a way that you can either see below or above the frame, MasterCraft finally has a solution.
The frameless windshield allows you to completely see out of the windshield with no obstruction. This feature may not seem like a necessity at first, but after you get behind the wheel of an X24, you won’t be able to go back because of this innovation.
Updated Options and Layouts
- Board Racks (Optional): Riders can customize their storage setup to fit their lifestyle.
- Wider Beam & Bigger Bow: The 2026 design tweaks add more usable space, making the boat feel even larger and more open.
- New Phone Chargers: Multiple wireless and USB charging spots mean no more dead devices on long days.
- Bimini & Cover Updates: The improved Bimini design offers better shade coverage, while the cover now features a zipper system that makes putting it on and off much easier.
How Do the Specs Compare?
The 2026 X24 didn’t just get cosmetic changes—it also received measurable upgrades across its specs. Here’s a breakdown of how the numbers stack up against previous years.
Key Specifications to Consider:
- Fuel Capacity: Bigger tanks mean longer days without refueling. The X24 has a massive 86 Gallon tank.
- Interior Beam: The interior has been designed to give everyone onboard as much room as possible with a whopping interior beam of 83”.
- Deadrise: Designed to cut through chop smoothly, keeping passengers comfortable.
- Engine Options: Multiple Ilmor engine packages remain available, giving owners flexibility in power and performance.
- Weight: Slight increases in weight (from 6,100lbs to 7,200lbs) help deliver a more planted ride while also improving wave push.
- Ballast: Already industry-leading, the ballast system remains massive with over 4,000 lbs. These massive ballast tanks deliver one of the biggest, most customizable surf waves.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Storage
Older X24 models already offered deep compartments and under-seat storage. But the 2026 rear surf sleeves give it an edge for water sports families who want their boards accessible and protected. This also reduces the need for board racks if you don’t prefer having board racks on your boat.
Ergonomics
With a wider interior beam and expanded bow, the new X24 feels roomier than ever. Add in wireless chargers and more intuitive seat layouts, and passengers will notice a clear difference in day-to-day comfort.
Drivability
Past X24s handled impressively well for their size, but the 2026 tweaks in draft and weight distribution make the ride even smoother. Combined with SurfStar and MyDrive, captains will appreciate the blend of precision and power.
Comments From Our Team
Some members from our team got the chance to head out on the New X24. Brian Lerch, the General Manager of Action Water Sports in Hudsonville stated the first noticeable feature was the sheer space inside of the boat. With the extended interior beam, there is more room for passengers and gear than ever before.
The second part of the boat that caught Brian’s eye was the co-captains seat. Stating “The ergonomic design featuring the touchscreen control center and armrest beat out any other co-captains seat in the industry.”
Along with these two noticeable changes, other features caught Brian’s eye as well. The frameless windshield, the storage capabilities, and easy access ballast and fuel pumps. All of these features are a true testament to MasterCraft’s unwavering desire to bring the best product to the market year after year.
Should You Upgrade to the 2026 X24?
If you currently own a 2019 or early-2020s X24, the 2026 model offers substantial improvements in both comfort and performance. The wider interior beam, bigger bow, upgraded sound, and integrated surf sleeves are all quality-of-life features that make a real difference on the water.
For those with a 2025 X24, the decision comes down to priorities. The MyDrive Encoder and SurfStar are already game changers, so your boat isn’t far behind in technology. However, if storage, passenger comfort, and audio experience matter most, the 2026 upgrade would be worth it.
At the end of the day, the MasterCraft X24 is a boat built to grow with you. Whether you stick with your current model or upgrade to the newest release, you’ll be part of one of the most innovative surf boat legacies in the world.
Will You Upgrade?
The MasterCraft X24 has evolved rapidly since its introduction in 2019. Each model year added innovations that made the boat more comfortable, capable, and fun for families. The 2026 X24 is no exception as it represents the most refined version yet, combining legendary wave performance with premium comfort.
So, should you upgrade? If you want the very best in storage solutions, ergonomics, and rider-focused technology, the 2026 X24 is calling your name.
