SONIC 45SS

Hotboat Magazine / September 1997

It's a Triple-engine Machine That Burns Up the Open Water.

Big, fast and sexy--that's the way the offshore sport-boat market seems to be heading. Think large, let's say about 45 feet, may be triple engines, giant, stand-up, bolster-style seats and a fully appointed forward cabin that ultra plush.

You probably don't know it, but you just described the magnificent Sonic 45SS, a killer high-performance, deep-vee offshore rocket that offers up equal helpings of speed and luxury. If you're unfamiliar with the Sonic brand name, you're definitely not from Florida. For the past 20 years, Sonic's J. Ross has been developing and fine-tuning an unique line of offshore performance boats that have earned them an enviable niche in this highly competitive marketplace.

Sonic is not a high-volume production boatbuilder but rather a custom shop used to interacting directly with its upscale clientele. While there's ample industry bluster about racing achievements. Sonic is more focused on the total package, making a boat that's way above the normal.

A good example is the 45SS, a roomy and comfortable megasport that demonstrates nothing but admirable performance characteristics. Because of its size, Sonic lists triple engines as the standard propulsion configuration. This does a couple of things. First, three stock engines are a lot more reliable and driver-friendly than a pair of super-modified big blocks. Our test model 45SS was equipped with a trio of 500HP MerCruisers (502 c.i.) and Bravo One drives with standard 1.5:1 gear ratios. These engines are the backbone of the new Factory offshore racing classes in APBA, primarily due to their excellent durability, reasonably affordable price and superstrong performance. After test driving the Sonic 45SS, we agree with the engine selection. Pushing the speedo needle past the 80-mph mark was no trouble and coming on plane in only four seconds was something to be proud of for a 12,500-pound payload. The engines also idled docilely; making docking and tight marina maneuvers a breeze.

In the open water the 45SS loves a challenge and that's where the triple-engine installation gives its second assist. Since the engines are mounted two aft side-by-side with a third one in front, weight distribution and hull center of gravity are enhanced compared to carrying all the load in the transom. Even in moderately rough conditions in the 60-plus mph range, the 45SS keeps its onboard passengers comfortable and dry thanks to a generous 25-degree vee deadrise bottom and rock-solid construction. There's no flex or wiggle from the deck or hull sides. The extra-tough vinylester resins, divinycell core reinforcement and high-tech biaxial glass materials do their job in creating a fortresslike outer structure. It also doesn't hurt that Sonic foam fills all its vacant hull cavities to deaden noise and strengthen the structural integrity. And don't forget to give two thumbs-up to the optional Marine Machine hydraulic/external steering system. Although not recommended, you can literally take your hands completely off the steering wheel and the boat doesn't change or alter direction in the least, regardless of whether you're on a straightaway or in a tight turn.

While the performance is impressive, the Sonic 45SS is equally dazzling in the cockpit and below deck. Because it has a full-fiberglass liner, the total cockpit floor is easy to maintain nonskid with a removable carpet. Seating consists of twin stand-up bolsters (side-by-side) and an aft lounge. There's also a standard arch that frames the stem engine hatch.

To enter the cabin, Sonic has chosen a portside entryway. This allows a below-deck arrangement consisting of three long sitting lounges, a fully enclosed head including shower and sink, a convenient entertainment center (with TV and VCR) and a spacious vee berth in the bow. Quite possibly, the most important feature the 45SS Cabin is the fact that there is 6'2" of stand-up headroom.

If you feel so inclined to prepare a meat onboard, the 45SS has a gallery that would make a gourmet chef proud. The galley module comes equipped with a freshwater sink, refrigerator and microwave oven. If you like, you can also order an optional electric stove. And it you're worried about hot summer boating, don't. Sonic offers an optional air conditioning system to keep things cool down under.

Although the 45SS is financially beyond the means of most people, it is a motivating goal to aspire toward. Maybe money can't buy everything, but it can buy you an incredible offshore sport boat like the Sonic 45SS.

Additional standard equipment (not mentioned in article): Twin batteries, automatic fire-extinguishing system, fume detector, K-Planes, electric engine hatch, Shore Power, stainless-steel tie bar, mechanical trim tab and drive indicators, race-style engine mounts, stainless props, interior lighting, storage compartments, racing compass, digital depth-sounder, swim platform, instrument panel with circuit breakers, twin deck hatches, Tonneau cover, molded windscreen, VHF radio.

Optional equipment: Generator, bimini top, mufflers, Silent Choice MerCruiser, transom shower, central vacuum, radar, electronics package (GPS), seats (electric), automatic beverage dispenser.