Gibbs Quadski XL First Look

The Gibbs Quadski, the world’s first high-speed sports amphibian, gets a new front-end appearance and a two-seat Quadski XL model added to its lineup for 2014.

These high-speed amphibians (Click here for full test of the single seat Quadski) feature a unique retractable suspension system that provides a superb ride and nimble handling on land, and retracts in seconds after entering water.

Compared to the standard Quadski, the new Quadski XL offers seating for two; has 11.8 inches of additional wheelbase; is nearly a foot longer and offers increased storage capacity as well as larger hood-mounted air scoops that boost engine cooling and overall performance, along with new, more resilient front bumper systems. The Quadski XL has an overall length of 140.2 inches, compared to 128.3 inches for a standard Quadski. Its curb weight of 1,437 pounds is about 100 pounds heavier and its wheelbase of 82.3 inches is nearly a foot longer. The Quadski XL’s longer wheelbase delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride on land and greater stability on water. Under-seat storage includes additional space for a second helmet and safety gear, supplementing the storage bin and glove box already available on the single-seat Quadski.

Both models have durable, light-weight composite hulls; utilize patented water-jet technology, and are equipped with a 1.3-liter BMW Motorrad engine and transmission. The four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest power plant in its segment and features electronic fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts and dry-sump lubrication. Producing 140 horsepower, the engine enables Quadski and Quadski XL to reach speeds of 45 mph on both land and water.

Built at a 54,000-square-foot assembly plant in Auburn Hills, the Quadski is available in four colors – red, yellow, silver and blue – and will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $41,125 for standard models and $47,650 for the all-new XL. The Gibbs Quadski currently is available at dealerships throughout the United States, including Florida, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Minnesota, Washington, Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.