Looking for advice: AR190 vs. AR195 for a first boat
I’m looking for some advice from the Yamaha crowd on whether the AR195’s performance/engine upgrade is worth choosing over the AR190.
I’m in California and unfortunately can’t purchase a new AR195, but I’ve found a used 2023 AR195 (~$38K) that I’m considering. My other option is buying a brand-new 2026 AR190(~$45K).
This will be my first boat. We’re a family of five with kids ages 6, 10, and 17, so family use is the priority. Most of our boating will be on local California lakes, with some harbor/inshore fishing mixed in.
That said, I do enjoy going fast, I have a few sports cars so I’m wondering if I’ll regret going with the AR190 once I get used to it. 😁
For those who have owned or driven both:
● How noticeable is the performance difference between the AR190 and AR195?
● Is the 195 engine/performance upgrade significant enough to justify buying a used boat versus a new 190?
● How do they compare for getting a family of five on plane and maintaining speed with a full load?
● Is the AR195 noticeably better for watersports/towing?
● Any meaningful differences in handling, fuel economy, or overall ownership?
● If you were in my position, would you buy the new 2026 AR190 or the used 2023 AR195?
I’m especially interested in hearing from people who have actually driven both. I’m trying to figure out whether the AR195 is a meaningful performance upgrade or whether the AR190 is more than enough for what we’ll be doing.
Thanks!