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Sea-Doo GTR History and Models [Video]
Sea-Doo GTRs are known as the most affordable performance models in the Sea-Doo lineup. As a rule of thumb, each GTR is built on the GTI hull and features a supercharged Rotax engine. The first ski in this family was the 2012 GTR 215 while the latest model is the 2024 GTR-X 300.
If you want to find out more about the Sea-Doo GTR series and compare the various models head-to-head, this post is for you.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know under one roof!
The History of the Sea-Doo GTR
Interestingly, the history of the Sea-Doo GTR goes back to the early 2000s when the manufacturer released the RXP line.These skis borrowed their hull from the small, nimble GTI but featured high-performance supercharged engines. This means from 2004 through 2011 every RXP was built on the medium-sized GTI hull.
But everything changed in 2012 when Sea-Doo revealed the all-new RXP-X 260. Unlike its predecessors, this ski was built on the revolutionary T3-R platform.
However, the Canadian manufacturer also decided to keep their GTI-based performance line, which was rebranded as GTR.
Consequently, it’s safe to say that the GTR series is the actual successor of the GTI-based RXP family.
The main idea behind this demotion was that the manufacturer reserved its high-end engine options for top-of-the-line RXP and RXT models.
This is why the first GTR only had 215hp while its successor, the still-in-production GTR 230 was only designed with 230hp.
The latter was also available with the X-package (GTR-X 230) in the 2017-2019 seasons and was revived for the 2024 model year with the 300hp engine option.
In summary, the list of all the Sea-Doo GTRs ever produced is as follows:
(You can discover each model by following the links above.)Let’s get down to the nitty, gritty and talk about these skis in detail!
The Sea-Doo GTR Family
2012-2016 Sea-Doo GTR 215
Released as the first Sea-Doo GTR, the 2012 GTR 215 was actually the successor of the 2008-2011 RXP-X 255.
Unlike the RXP-X, the new GTR 215 lacked the X-package and had a restricted 215hp engine. In return, it came standard with the innovative iBR electric brake and reverse system.The top deck of the ski was also heavily redesigned, but the GTI hull was carried over from its predecessor without any significant changes.
The only novelties of the 2012 GTI/GTR hull was its enhanced stern and slightly lengthened bow. These ensured a larger rear platform and increased buoyancy.
Regarding dimensions, the GTR 215 was 132.6 inches long and 48.5 inches wide, while its dry weight was 756 pounds.
Its hull also featured a shallow (16-degree) deadrise, which ensured playful and forgiving rides.
2017 – GTR 230
The more powerful GTR 230 replaced the outdated GTR 215 for the 2017 season.
While the latter featured the 215hp Rotax 1503 4-TEC engine, the new model was designed with the revamped 230hp Rotax 1500 ACE HO. This unit was a de-tuned version of the flagship 260hp engine.
Aside from the different power options and slightly heavier weight (807 vs. 765 lbs.), the GTR 230 and GTR 215 were basically identical.
While the 215 was discontinued in 2016, the GTR 230 is still part of the latest Sea-Doo lineup.
2017-2019 GTR-X 230
The Sea-Doo GTR-X 230 was a more sporty version of the base GTR 230.
Unlike its simpler brother, it featured the race-inspired X-package, 2-rider Ergolock seat, RXP-inspired top deck, and a unique color scheme.
It was built on a slightly modified GTI hull, which was 2 inches shorter and 3.2 inches narrower, but it was 14 pounds heavier than the base shell.
The engine of the GTR 230 and GTR-X 230 was the same Rotax 1500 ACE HO rated at 230hp.
Despite its popularity, Sea-Doo discontinued the X model after just two years of production.
2024 GTR-X 300
To the greatest delight of many fans, Sea-Doo revived the GTR-X for the 2024 season with the more powerful, Rotax 1630 ACE HO 300 engine.
The introduction of the 325hp configuration of this engine made it possible to allow its 300hp sibling to find its way into mid-range models.
Labeled as GTR-X 300, this new model is almost equivalent to the GTR-X 230 except for its new color scheme, more powerful engine, and the Polytec Gen 2 hull material.
Aside from these differences, other features have been carried over from its predecessor, including the X-package, Ergolock seat, iBR brake and reverse system, and the iTC throttle control.Surprisingly, the dry weight of the GTR-X 300 is only 794 pounds, 27 pounds less than its predecessor!
Sea-Doo GTR Comparison Chart
For your convenience we’ve listed the key specs of the Sea-Doo GTRs in one chart:Years | Model | HP | Engine | Dry Weight (lb) | Rider Capacity | Length (in) | Width (in) | iBR |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
12-16 | GTR 215 | 215 | Rotax 1503 4-TEC | 765 | 3 | 132.6 | 48.5 | Yes |
17- | GTR 230 | 230 | Rotax 1500 ACE HO | 807 | 3 | 132.6 | 48.5 | Yes |
17-19 | GTR-X 230 | 230 | Rotax 1500 ACE HO | 821 | 2 | 130.6 | 45.3 | Yes |
24- | GTR-X 300 | 300 | Rotax 1630 ACE HO 300 | 794 | 3 | 130.6 | 49.2 | Yes |
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the GTR line:When did the Sea-Doo GTR First Come Out?
Sea-Doo introduced the GTR series for the 2012 model year.
How Fast is a Sea-Doo GTR?
The top speed of each Sea-Doo GTR is limited to 67 mph for safety reasons.
How Much HP Does a Sea-Doo GTR Have?
The production GTR 230 and GTR-X 300 produce 230 and 300hp, respectively. Their predecessors were rated at 215-230hp.
Is the Sea-Doo GTR Supercharged?
As a rule of thumb, each Sea-Doo GTR was designed with a supercharged engine.
Is the Sea-Doo GTR a 3-Seater?
The latest Sea-Doo GTRs can carry three adult passengers, but the GTR-X 230 was rated at only two riders.