The Qwest E-Class 822 Splash Pad LTZ we tested featured a Suzuki DF200. A great choice, it zipped us to 30 mph in 6.3 seconds and topped at 44 mph. At its most economical cruise speed of 14 mph, the Suzuki sipped fuel at just 2.5 gph, netting 5.6 mpg. With its 45-gallon tank, 300 miles of range is possible, leaving 10 percent in the tank as reserve. The Qwest will handle and ride; the triple 25-inch pontoons with lifting strakes and underdeck underskin give swift and stable performance over late-afternoon lake chop and boat wakes, and when turning hard over. Extra baffles are welded in the tubes to help handle rougher water. 

The outside perimeter fencing features a blacked-out railing with gray and cayenne red accent panels. It’s an excellent color contrast and gives an attractive look without overstatement.  

In front, two long, facing curved loungers offer expanded seating for a larger group. Even cooler, the optional sleeper seats fold down to form a complete bed across the entire bow section. The pilot’s console features a 7-inch graph flanked by control switches for all boat functions, a neat little pocket phone charger pad, and a Clarion premium Bluetooth sound system with LED-lit speakers. Twin high-back reclining chairs await the captain and mate. The portside forward-lounge aft end cap features a built-in flip-up table and storage cubby. A folding 9-foot Bimini top is standard.

The aft seating arrangement is where this boat gets its name. The Splash Pad is a three-quarter-width lounge seat with a multiposition reversible backrest. This makes for another complete bedlike pad when both backrests are folded flat. Alternatively, riders can lounge facing forward or aft, depending on how the backrests are positioned—a versatile arrangement.

Aft of the rear perimeter fencing, an extended swim deck features a stainless-steel boarding ladder. The Splash Pad is packed with useful and innovative features; coupled with the performance, construction and price point, it commands attention.

Apex Marine – St. Louis, Michigan; 989-681-4300; qwestpontoons.com