Want to get a taste of Sea-Doo's performance watercraft at the lowest possible price? Meet the 2015 Sea-Doo GTR 215, which offers nimble handling and peak value. You may not get things like a sport seat or the company's renowned S³ hull featuring a stepped, deep-V design (this model is actually based on the GTI platform), but expect a ton of fun on the water, nevertheless.

Photo: Sea-Doo

Superior control and peace of mind for occupants of the 2015 Sea-Doo GTR 215 start with Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR), which allows you to stop up to 100 feet sooner than with any other personal watercraft, the company says. Plus, the separate levers let you keep both hands on the handlebars at all times. iBR makes docking far easier, too.

Not as powerful as the other, 260hp models in the lineup (which all start with the letters “RX”), the 2015 Sea-Doo GTR 215 is smaller, lighter, and equipped with a supercharged engine that offers more power (215 hp) than similar competitors. Specifically designed for marine use, the 1,494cc Rotax 4-TEC not only provides quicker acceleration and a higher top speed, but also works hand-in-hand with ride-by-wire Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) for more precise engine calibration and better fuel economy. By the way, if you plan to put novices at the helm, the programmable Learning Key allows you to limit the GTR's performance based on a rider's skill level.

This machine also boasts a Variable Trim System (VTS) on the handlebar for fine-tuned handling based on rider preferences, water conditions, and the number of passengers (up to three), as well as Off-Throttle Assisted Steering (OTAS) that improves manoeuvrability in off-throttle situations.

Interestingly, Sea-Doo watercrafts are the only ones to start in neutral, so the engine runs without propelling the craft forward. At speed, you can choose between three different operating modes at the touch of a button: Eco, Touring, and Sport.

Other great features on the 2015 Sea-Doo GTR 215 include a sophisticated digital information centre, wide-angle mirrors, a large, water-resistant storage compartment up front (116L), and a large swim platform in the rear with full traction matting that makes hanging out in the sun or hopping in and out of the water a breeze. As always, the exclusive D-Sea-Bel sound reduction system makes Sea-Doo watercraft among the quietest on the water.

The 2015 Sea-Doo GTR 215 starts at $13,349. Consider it along with the Yamaha VXR/VXS.