The spec sheets list the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 as modified vee and the Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 as cut diamond, so check how each hull rides in the conditions you use before you decide.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 at 23,0 ft versus Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 at 20,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 tips the scales at 3 900 lbs - 700 lbs more than the Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 at 3 200 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.
The Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 tops out at 400 hp. Engine specs for the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 carries 56 gallons versus 46 gallons in the Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008. 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 Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 is rated for 15 passengers, while the Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 caps at 11. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Malibu 23 vRIDE 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 15 passengers and at 23,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Malibu Sunscape 20 LSV 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 11 that costs less to run day-to-day.