PDB Shootout: Barletta Corsa 23QSSA

First Impression

As it should be, the all-new Corsa is centered on a beautiful and sporty helm console design. But as far as this mid-line model is concerned, it’s only the tip of the iceberg, as this 2021 lineup has so much to offer.

Details

When its price-point C Class line was introduced last year, it brought a high-end feel to its entry-level models, but for some it also blurred the line between its E-Class and mid-range pontoons. The distinction is no longer an issue with the release of the mid-line Corsa that replaces Barletta’s E line.

Going for more of a sporty yet classy new look, there is still plenty of Barletta DNA built into the new Corsa. From the stylish exterior rails to the comfortable interior amenities, it’s packed with a lot of standard features.

Starting at the raised helm platform with a color-coordinated Marine Mat, the automotive-style dash is centered on two large multi-function gauges with a row of push buttons down each side, along with an upgraded 7-inch Simrad GO7 XSE touchscreen. Then just below the chartplotter you’ll find the controls to the Hertz audio system. There is even an integrated wireless charging station that protects your phone from the elements yet allows you to keep an eye on it. On the side of the helm is a locking glove box as well as a slide-out pet dish drawer, which has become a staple on all Barletta boats.

Directly across from the helm is a multi-use club lounge that allows the first mate to sit forward- or reverse-facing, lie flat or even lounge back with a leg rest. The vinyl color used throughout the boat is only available in wraith gray (light gray), but you can customize the accent pieces in either a charcoal, red or blue color.

Rated for up to 13 passengers, there are plenty of comfortable seats for everyone and we especially like the new speaker cover, USB port and cupholders that are all recessed in the backrests of the bow bench seats. If we had to be picky, it would be nice to have cupholders recessed in the rear seats too, but as tested only the bow included those.

The power Bimini top, large in-floor ski locker, extended swim platform and tube/tow cage top the list of features that come standard, and there are many others. One of the few options is the bow anchor locker that gives you an easy place to store your anchor so you’re not dragging it through the boat. It includes a Danik hook so you can clip to the eye on your nosecone when anchoring.

Closer Look

The 26-inch diameter pontoons include full-length exterior wave tamers on the outside tubes with solid keels, and a combination box and I-beam/C-channel construction make up the hybrid cross member configuration for a solid deck. The V.I.P (Vibration Isolation Pads) Technology helps provide a quiet ride too. The exterior panels around the perimeter of the boat stand over 26 inches tall for most of the boat, with the lowest rail in the stern still measuring nearly 25 inches in the bow.

Throttle Down

The sporty look is backed by an exhilarating ride. With the Mercury 250hp engine on the back, our 0-to-20 mph time was just under 4 seconds with a top speed in the mid 40 mph range at full throttle. Overall, she handled well and was fun to drive.

Why Buy

It’s easy to see why Barletta is so excited about its new mid-line of boats. The Corsa line adds a sporty vibe to the lineup, while building on the key features and quality craftsmanship the manufacturer is known for.

Bristol, Ind.
574-825-8900
www.barlettapontoonboats.com

Number of Occupants: 13
Price As Tested With Power: $104.2K
Maximum Speed: 44.1 mph
Wild Ponies: 250 hp
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 4.0 seconds
Ladder Measurement: 4’ deep

Why we love this boat…A lot of unique and fresh designs are found throughout the boat, but the look of the sporty helm was clearly the focal point on this new beauty.

Just being picky…With a total of 9 cupholders there are plenty already, but we’d like to see the recessed space on the stern bench seats used to add at least one to each side.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

U-Flex EZ Steer Steering, Bimini Dome Light, Power Bimini Top w/ Boot, Snap-less Playpen Cover, 10-Year Bow-to-Stern Warranty, Dual Battery Trays w/Switch, Extended Swim Deck, Full-Length Exterior Wave Tamers, Full-Length Solid Keel, Full-Length Underbelly Skin, Hybrid Cross Member Configuration, Premium Exterior Top-Rail Extrusion, VIP Technology, Stainless Steel Stern Ladder, Blackout Pkg., E-Z Access Integrated Waste Basket, Hertz Marine Stereo w/4 Speakers, Tube-Tow Watersports Cage, Yeti-Ready Cupholders, Helm Seat w/ Swivel and Slide, Integrated Cell Phone Storage With Charging Station and AUX, Integrated Pet Food/Water Dishes, Raised Helm Platform w/ Marine Mat, and Wireless Phone Charger.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Metal Jacket Tube Protectant, Stainless Steel Flag Pole, Anchor Storage at Bow Gate, and Simrad 7-inch GO7XSE Chart Plotter/Multifunction Display.

VITAL STATS

LOA: 25’
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Triple Tube
Dry Weight: 3,640 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 48 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine: Mercury 250L FourStroke
Cylinder Type: V8
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 279ci/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Propeller: 15 X 15

RPM     vs.      SPEED    vs.   DB-A

600                  1.6                   71.5
1000                3.0                   78
1500                5.8                   80.5
2000                8.0                   81
2500                10.7                 87.5
3000                14.0                 89
3500                19.5                 96.5
4000                24.1                 97
4500                30.2                 104.5
5000                34.5                 103.5
5500                35.3                 103.5
6000                44.1                 103

PRICE

Price As Tested: $104,250
(Boat and Motor)

Base Price: $101,100
(Boat and Motor)

This article originally appeared in our 2021 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.