2023 Riviera 445 SUV

The new 445 SUV is in all respects a true embodiment of Riviera heritage.

By this we mean that all the familiar— and reassuring — aspects of classic Riviera boatbuilding are there: the purposeful lines, the hefty scantlings, the solid feel in a seaway, the spatial sense, the layout, the sumptuous decor. As well as a full no-nonsense Flybridge-scale cockpit.

All our learning is on show here again.

The SUV’s confident offshore poise comes, to a large degree, from Riviera’s leading-edge CAD technology and legendary build quality that combine superstrong hand layups with solid GRP bottom and structural core material on the hull flanks, main deck and hardtop, as well as precisely fitted lightweight resin transfer moldings, pre-fitted for a perfect seal when all major components are bonded together.

A great deal of our acumen regarding hull shape has contributed to, for example, aft chine strakes that have a straight run, to enhance both speed and manoeuvrability, as well as a moderate Vee shape going forward, to a precise 14.5-degree deadrise at the transom to stay beautifully composed in a choppy quarter sea without diminishing top end performance.

The extensive Flybridge and Sport Yacht Collections really had a big influence on the choice of IPS pod-drive propulsion as the must-have standard propulsion for the new SUV; confirmed over our now four-year experience and close collaboration with Volvo engineers on seven different Sport Yacht, Flybridge and Offshore Express models and hundreds of production craft.

The system’s twin engines and forward facing, counter-rotating props not only offers exhilerating performance, but precise micromanagement of handling in confined spaces. A skipper— either solo or with a novice crew— can, just using a joystick, direct the twin pod units so as to place the boat easily and exactly where it’s wanted.

There seem to be only upsides and upsides to the Volvo system; in efficiency, top speed, acceleration, economy, maneuverability and quietness. But one of the biggest advantages is that the bulk of engineering machinery can be positioned well aft, rather than amid-ships, as shaft drive engineering dictates.

SYS Yacht Sales offers new Riviera Yachts for sale on the U.S. Gulf Coast and West Coast of FL. Contact our factory-trained Riviera specialists for more information on the new 445 SUV and other models available.