Delivering a stellar combination of performance and value, Bennington proves it can compete at any level with the SVSB-SPS. Rigged with Yamaha’s VMax SHO 200, we planed in just 3.3 seconds, reaching 30 mph in a cat-quick 6.1 seconds. Top speed was a healthy 45 mph at 5,900 rpm. In the midrange, this Bennington-Yamaha package was quiet as well as thrifty; our decibel meter recorded just 69 dB(A) while sipping fuel at 3.6 gph (that’s 4 mpg) at a best-cruise speed of 14 mph and 2,500 rpm. Handling was sure-footed and predictable at all speeds; we carved turns with little heel-over leaning, and skipped over boat wakes and wind chop without drama.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS cruising](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-01-1024x768.jpg)
Aboard, the SVSB-SPS is new and redesigned from the deck up for 2024. New for 2024 is the Swingback aft lounge seat, previously only offered on Bennington’s higher-end models. The intent is to offer this model as a package all-inclusive of most options, making it an easier purchase for new boaters.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS bow seating](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-07-1024x768.jpg)
Interior seating vinyl is a Serene Soft Touch pillow-top style, with colors that include a shadow gray with carbon accents for a subdued and tasteful combination. Seagrass is the name of the vinyl flooring.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS helm](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-06-1024x768.jpg)
In the bow, dual facing loungers form a gathering place, with lumbar areas set back below the pillow tops for more storage for phones, hats, etc. A removable snack table fits between the seats. Leading back to the single console, an in-floor storage locker houses water toys. The helm is redesigned for 2024, with a more sweptback look and better ergonomics and instrument placement; there’s also more legroom underneath for taller captains. New for ’24, Bennington has incorporated courtesy lights at the bow and portside door stoppers. Astern, the Swingback seating arrangement provides a lounge pad with a reversible backrest; there’s a large storage compartment under this seat.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS sunpad](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-11-1024x768.jpg)
Bennington has priced this package very competitively; for $65,504, boaters get a well-equipped package with legendary Bennington quality.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS boarding ladder](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-12-1024x768.jpg)
High Points
- The 22-foot package offers the performance and features of much larger boats.
- Lillipad boarding ladder and tow bar on the aft deck.
- Swingback aft sun pad is versatile and comfortable.
![Bennington 22 SVSB-SPS performance data](jpg/btgbg24-pon-bennington-22-svsb-sps-specs.jpg)
How We Tested
- Engine: Yamaha VMax SHO 200 four-stroke 200 hp
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 14.5″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 22 gal. Crew Weight: 260 lb.
Pricing and Specs
Price: | $65,504 (as tested) |
LOA: | 22’4″ |
Beam: | 8’6″ |
Draft: | NA |
Dry Weight: | 2,407 lb. |
Seat/Weight Capacity: | 10/1,819 lb. |
Fuel Capacity: | 22.4 gal. |