The Crownline 252 EX 2009 is a modified-V design and the Crownline 260 LS 2009 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Crownline 252 EX 2009 at 25,0 ft versus Crownline 260 LS 2009 at 26,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crownline 260 LS 2009 tips the scales at 5 800 lbs - 500 lbs less than the Crownline 252 EX 2009 at 5 300 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 425 hp for the Crownline 252 EX 2009 and 425 hp for the Crownline 260 LS 2009. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Crownline 260 LS 2009 carries 75 gallons versus 50 gallons in the Crownline 252 EX 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Crownline 260 LS 2009 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Crownline 252 EX 2009 caps at 13. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crownline 260 LS 2009 could be the deciding factor.