The new Can-Am Defender utility side-by-side.
The Can-Am Defender with Camo paint and cab options.
Can-Am recently launched their Defender line of utility side-by-sides. The lineup includes four models: Defender, Defender DPS, Defender XT and Defender XT Cab. MSRPs range from $10,999 to $23,699. This represents Can-Ams first foray into the more pure work end of the side-by-side spectrum. Key features of the models include:
- Two EFI engine options: The 72 hp 976 cc Rotax HD10 V-Twin engine with 61 lb-ft of torque for work or recreational use and the work focused 799.9 cc Rotax HD8 V-Twin with 50 hp and 50 lb-ft. of torque
- High rigidity steel chassis
- PRO-TORQ Transmission with Quick Response System (QRS), high airflow ventilation and Electronic Drive Belt Protection
- 4-mode traction system – Users, via a separate front-and-rear toggle switches, can select between a 2×4 open rear differential for tight turning and turf protection, a 2×4 lockable rear for improved 2WD traction, a 4×4 open rear for more maneuverability in rugged terrain and a 4×4 locked rear for maximum traction. This is optional on the Defender HD8
- Electronic Hill Descent Control
- Torsional Trailing A-arms rear suspension with 10″ of travel and dual A-arm front suspension with 10″ of travel
- 11″ of ground clearance
- 1,000 lb. capacity cargo box and 2,000 lb. towing capacity
- 25″ Maxxis tires and 12″ steel wheels
- Front steel bumper and central skid plate
- Versa Pro 40/20/40 bench seating for three
- Removable, water-resistant tool box
- Adjustable tilt steering
- Cargo box with indentations to fit five-gallon buckets and a tailgate with cup holders.
The Defender DPS ($12,799 MSRP) adds the following features:
- Dynamic Power Steering
- Mossy Oak Break-up Country Camo and Yellow color options
- Cast aluminum wheels
The Defender XT ($15,599 MSRP) features:
- 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14″ black cast aluminum wheels
- Dynamic Power Steering
- Mossy Oak Break-up Country Camo, Intense Red and Pure Magnesium Metallic color options
- Multifunction analog/digital gauges
- 4,500-lb winch with roller fairlead
- Steel front bumper
- Full skid plate
- Full hard roof
The Defender XT Cab ($23,699 MSRP) features:
- 72 HP Rotax HD10 engine as the only option
- Dynamic Power Steering
- 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14″ black cast aluminum wheels
- Mossy Oak Break-up Country Camo, Intense Red and Pure Magnesium Metallic color options
- 9″ of ground clearance
- Multifunction analog/digital gauges
- 4,500-lb winch with roller fairlead
- Steel front bumper
- Full skid plate
- Full hard roof with line
- Full black doors with electric opening windows
- 3-position full glass tilt up windshield with wiper/washer kitRear glass with sliding opening
A crew version of the Defender will likely be introduced in the next 6 to 12 months.
Comment: The competition in the side-by-side market continues to heat up. Many of the larger players have now launched models into market segments they did not previously compete in directly. This will likely create downward pricing pressure for manufacturers through either more competitive MSRPs and/or more promotional dollars. However, product innovation and more marketing dollars and awareness should be an impetus for growing the overall market. Consumers should win with an improved and wider selection of product offerings.