Hi Irie,
Figured I'd add my 2c worth as I've just made the move from a shaft drive to IPS Riviera.
Build quality on their newer boats is excellent and I asked a lot of people with hands on experience about the IPS before buying. The feedback from the mechanics working on them everyday was that the 2017 and newer generations are solid and support from Volvo Penta is good. I live in Australia and there are IPS powered Rivieras everywhere so plenty of techs with experience. Having said that, there is a lot of technology involved and if it's a boat you plan to keep for 10+ years then you will no doubt have to deal with issues as they age.
Comparing to previous older shaft drive boats, the IPS is a LOT quieter at cruise, faster and more efficient.
Happy to answer any other questions.
Paul
Figured I'd add my 2c worth as I've just made the move from a shaft drive to IPS Riviera.
Build quality on their newer boats is excellent and I asked a lot of people with hands on experience about the IPS before buying. The feedback from the mechanics working on them everyday was that the 2017 and newer generations are solid and support from Volvo Penta is good. I live in Australia and there are IPS powered Rivieras everywhere so plenty of techs with experience. Having said that, there is a lot of technology involved and if it's a boat you plan to keep for 10+ years then you will no doubt have to deal with issues as they age.
Comparing to previous older shaft drive boats, the IPS is a LOT quieter at cruise, faster and more efficient.
Happy to answer any other questions.
Paul