When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Malibu Response LXi 2006 and the Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012 are modified vee designs with composite construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012 measures 22,3 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 20,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Malibu Response LXi 2006 at 2,0 feet (2006). At 28 lbs and 4 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 400 hp, the Malibu Response LXi 2006 has a 50-hp advantage over the Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012's 350-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Malibu Response LXi 2006 carries 41 gallons versus 5 gallons in the Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012. 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 Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012 is rated for 15 passengers, while the Malibu Response LXi 2006 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 15 passengers and at 22,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Malibu Response LXi 2006 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.