When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Xpress H17 2012 and the Xpress H20 2012 are modified vee designs with aluminum 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 Xpress H20 2012 measures 20,3 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 3,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Xpress H17 2012 at 17,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Xpress H17 2012 tips the scales at 951 lbs — 804 lbs more than the Xpress H20 2012 at 147 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 — 115 hp for the Xpress H17 2012 and 115 hp for the Xpress H20 2012. 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 Xpress H17 2012 carries 18 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Xpress H20 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 4 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: The Xpress H20 2012 at 20,3 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Xpress H17 2012 at 17,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.