Can-Am Defender HD5 is new for 2017 and features a mid-size engine and lower price point.
Can-Am has expanded their more work-oriented Defender side-by-side product line with the Defender HD5. The Defender HD5 features a mid-sized engine and a lower price point with an $9,999 MSRP for the base model. Key features of the vehicle include:
- CVT with engine braking
- Selectable 2WD / 4WD Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential
- 25″ Maxxis tires on 12″ wheels
- 10″ of front and rear suspension travel
- 10.5″ of ground clearance
- 600 lb. capacity tilting cargo bed
- 1,500 lb. towing capacity
- VERSA-PRO bench seat than can flip up for more cab space
- Dynamic Power Steering model available
- Available in three colors including optional Mossy Oak Break-up Camo
- See specs for Base and DPS models
The following is the full press release from BRP
VALCOURT, Quebec, Canada, Oct. 26, 2016– BRP (TSX:DOO) has expanded its line of Can-Am Defender utility-recreational off-road vehicles with the launch of the new Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle. The Defender platform is now available with a mid-size engine, offering both value and performance while maintaining the Defender vehicle’s highly touted tough, capable and clever design.
“The 2017 Can-Am Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle provides full-size functionality and unmatched versatility at an attractive price point,” explained Marc-André Dubois, Global Marketing Director, Can-Am Off-Road. “This addition of the handy Defender HD5 packages helps us expand the Defender family lineup to meet market demand and also grow the Can-Am footprint in the highly popular utility-recreation segment of the industry.”
TOUGH
The 2017 Can-Am Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is every bit as tough as its larger siblings. The Rotax HD5 engine has been calibrated to supply excellent power and torque for work on the farm and in the field. The engine requires no break-in service and remains maintenance-free for one year or up to 1,865 miles (3,000 km) or 200 running hours. Additionally, the durable CVT comes equipped with engine braking, drive belt protection and a work-ready low range as standard equipment.
CAPABLE
The Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is equipped with a dependable high-strength, low-alloy steel chassis. A double A-arm front suspension, unique Torsional Trailing A-arm (TTA-HD) rear suspension and twin-tube, gas-charged shocks supply 10 in. (26.7 cm) of travel, front and rear. The Can-Am HD5 side-by-side vehicle also has a 10.5-inch (26.7-cm) ground clearance, selectable 2WD / 4WD Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential and 25-in. (63.5-cm) Maxxis tires on 12-in. (30.5cm) wheels for superior off-road capabilities.
The Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle also delivers impressive capacities, with its ability to tow up to 1,500 lbs. (680 kg) and a payload capacity of 1,200 lbs. (544 kg). The heavy-duty cargo box has intuitive adaptability to go with its 600 lbs. (272 kg) rated capacity, tilting bed and fully functional tailgate. It also has the industry’s largest fuel tank, at 10.6 gal. (40 L), meaning more time for work and less time spent refuelling.
CLEVER
A roomy, intuitive cockpit is designed to be fully functional and comfortable with cab pillars pushed forward, an open-dash configuration and a truck-inspired VERSA-PRO bench seat that accommodates up to three adults and flips up for added space in the cab. The Defender DPS HD5 package features up to 10.4 gal. (39.5 L) of onboard storage with its cup holders, under-dash storage and industry-exclusive, water-resistant toolbox. The cargo box presents additional usefulness with its integrated design elements like the LinQ quick-attach system, built-in anchors and tie-down points and many recesses for easy box separator solutions.
The 2017 Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is available in two packages (base and DPS) and up to three available colors, including an optional, water-dipped Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo finish. The Defender family of side-by-side vehicles is also highly adaptable with a line of 160 genuine Can-Am accessories, giving owners numerous customization choices.
The tough, capable and clever 2017 Defender HD5side-by-side vehicle is an exceptional value complete with full-size accommodations designed to improve comfort and convenience for simplifying tough jobs.
About BRP
BRP (TSX:DOO) is a global leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems. Its portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am all-terrain and side-by-side vehicles, Can-Am Spyder roadsters, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. BRP supports its line of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business. With annual sales of over CA$3.8 billion from over 100 countries, the Company employs approximately 7,900 people worldwide.
www.brp.com
Comment: This is another example of a continuing trend in the side-by-side market of new value priced models being introduced. The slower growth in the overall side-by-side market and the rise of less expensive smaller brands has led a number of the larger brands to launch lower priced models around the $10,000 price point. With an economy that looks like it will continue to grow relatively slowly and weakness for side-by-sides in oil/gas and agriculture segments, the move to bolster lower priced offerings is likely to continue and competition could become fiercer in the $8,000 to $11,000 price range.