The Scout 262 XSF 2008 is a modified-V design and the Scout 282 XSF 2012 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 - Scout 262 XSF 2008 at 26,0 ft versus Scout 282 XSF 2012 at 28,2 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 282 XSF 2012 tips the scales at 4 900 lbs - 1 000 lbs less than the Scout 262 XSF 2008 at 3 900 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 600 hp, the Scout 282 XSF 2012 has a 250-hp advantage over the Scout 262 XSF 2008'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 Scout 282 XSF 2012 carries 205 gallons versus 145 gallons in the Scout 262 XSF 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 Scout 282 XSF 2012 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Scout 262 XSF 2008 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Scout 282 XSF 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Scout 282 XSF 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 8 passengers and at 28,2 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Scout 262 XSF 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 7 that costs less to run day-to-day.