Polaris Recalls RZR XP Turbo S UTVs

RZR XP Turbo S

Polaris is recalling RZR XP Turbo S models due to an issue with the ROPS.

Polaris is recalling 2018 RZR XP Turbo S UTVs because the rollover protection structure can fracture during a high-speed rollover. The recall involved approximately 1,300 vehicles. Owners reported six instances of the ROPS fracturing. Owner should immediately stop using the vehicles and contact a Polaris dealer for a free repair.

SVR’s Take:  The recall is relatively small compared to typical recalls, and considering the number of vehicles Polaris sells. However, this is the first time I remember an issue with a ROPS structure for any manufacturer. In addition, Polaris mostly likely manufactured these 2018 models under their new design and manufacturing processes implemented to produce better quality vehicles. SVR maintains a list of recent recalls of UTVs, golf cars and LSVs. The following recall information is from the Consumer Protection Safety Commission.

Name of product:  Model year 2018 RZR XP Turbo S recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs)

Hazard:  In the event of a high-speed rollover, the vehicle’s rollover protection structure (ROPS) can fracture, providing inadequate protection during a rollover.
Remedy:  Repair
Recall date:  August 27, 2018
Units:  About 1,300
Consumer Contact:  Polaris at 800-765-2747 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.polaris.com and click on “Off Road Safety Recalls” for more information. In addition, check your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the “Product Safety Recalls” page to see if your vehicle is included in any recalls.

RZR XP Turbo S Recall Details

Description:  This recall involves model year 2018 RZR XP Turbo S recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) sold in red and blue. The recalled vehicles have “POLARIS” printed on the front grille, “POLARIS” printed beneath the doors, and “RZR” printed on the rear fenders. The vehicle identification number (VIN) and model number can be found on a label affixed to the vehicle frame in the left front wheel well.
Polaris Model Year 2018 RZR XP Turbo S
Year Model Number Model/Color
2018 Z18VEL92BR RZR XP TURBO S WITH RIDE CMD AND LV INDY RED
2018 Z18VEL92BK RZR XP TURBO S WITH RIDE CMD AND LV POL BLUE
Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ROVs and contact a Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair. Polaris is contacting all registered owners directly.
Incidents/Injuries:  Polaris has received six reports of rollover protection structures fracturing during rollovers. Polaris has received one report of an injury but does not attribute it to ROPS fractures.
Sold At:  Polaris dealers nationwide from January 2018 through August 2018 for about $27,500.
Manufacturer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn
Importer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn
Manufactured In:  Mexico
Recall number:  18-762

Polaris Recalls Gravely Atlas UTVs

Name of product:  Gravely Atlas JSV 3000 and 6000 utility vehicles
Hazard:  The utility vehicle’s exhaust header pipe can crack, posing fire and burn hazards.
Remedy:  Repair
Recall date:  August 8, 2018
Units:  About 2,100
Consumer Contact:  Gravely at 877-740-7060 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.gravely.com and click on the Product Support link at the bottom of the page, then select Product Safety Recall in the menu on the left of the page for more information.

Recall Details

Description:  This recall involves all model year 2015 through 2018 Gravely Atlas JSV 3000 and 6000 gas-engine-powered utility vehicles. The recalled utility vehicles were sold in red and have one or two rows of seats and a rear box. “Gravely” is printed on the rear box, and “Atlas” is printed on the hood of the utility vehicle. The model and serial number can be found on the driver’s side and are visible from the front wheel well. The following model numbers and serial number ranges are being recalled:

Year

Model

Serial Number Range

2015

996200 Base

150100, 150102 – 150299, 150310, 150321, 150332, 150343, 150354, 150365, 150376, 150387, 150398, 150409 – 150771, 150774 – 150803 and

150805 – 151173

996201 Crew

150100 – 150299, 150310, 150321, 150332, 150343, 150354, 150365, 150376, 150387, 150398, 150409 – 150599 and 150601 – 150641

2016

996200 Base

160100 – 160299, 160310, 160321, 160332, 160343, 160354, 160365, 160376, 160387, 160398 and 160409 – 160640

996201 Crew

160100 and 160102 – 160112

2017

996200 Base

170100 – 170256

996201 Crew

170100 – 170102 and 170108 – 170152

2018

996200 Base

180101, 180105 – 180116, 180118 – 180136, 180138 – 180149, 180151 – 180154, 180158 – 180161, 180163 – 180166, 180168 – 180170, 180172,

180174 – 180178, 180181 – 180182, 180186 – 180187, 180190, 180192, 180199, 180202, 180205 – 180206, 180209 – 180211, 180214 – 180215, 180218 and 180220 – 180222

Remedy:  Consumers should contact an authorized Gravely dealer for a free repair. If the exhaust system becomes noisier, consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles. Gravely is contacting all known purchasers directly.
Incidents/Injuries:  Gravely has received seven reports of cracked header exhaust pipes. No injuries have been reported.
Sold At:  Gravely dealers nationwide from September 2014 through July 2018 for between $13,000 and $15,700.
Manufacturer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.
Distributor(s):  Gravely Company, of Brillion, Wis.
Manufactured In:  United States
Recall number:  18-758

Bobcat 3400 and 3400XL UTVs Recalled

Bobcat 3400 utility vehicle

The Bobcat 3400 for model years 2015 through 2018 is being recalled.

Bobcat 3400XL utility Vehicle

The Bobcat 3400XL is being recalled as well.

Last month Bobcat issued a recall of the gas powered Bobcat 3400 and 3400XL UTVs for model years 2015 through 2018. The vehicle’s exhaust header pipe can crack and create potential burn and fire hazards. Owners have not reported any injuries or fires related to this recall, which involves approximately 2,700 units. The 3400 model is a two-seater and the 3400XL is a four-seater. Polaris manufactured both models for Bobcat under a partnership the companies formed several years ago to develop UTVs for commercial markets. If you have an affected model you should contact your local Bobcat dealer. The following recall information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Name of product:  Bobcat 3400 and 3400XL utility vehicles
Hazard:  The utility vehicle’s exhaust header pipe can crack, posing burn and fire hazards.
Remedy:  Repair
Recall date:  August, 2018
Units:  About 2,700

Recall Details

Description:  This recall involves model year 2015 through 2018 Bobcat 3400 and 3400XL gas engine-equipped utility vehicles manufactured by Polaris Industries. The recalled utility vehicles are white and black with orange decals and have one or two rows of seats and a rear box. “Bobcat” is printed on the hood of the utility vehicle and “3400” or “3400XL” is printed on the rear box. The model and vehicle identification number (VIN #) can be found on a label under the seat and storage bin on the passenger side. The following models and VIN ranges are being recalled:

Year

Model

VIN Range

2015

3400 4X GAS

B3FL11001 through B3FL11911

3400 4X GAS DLX

B3FN11001 through B3FN11286

2016

3400 4X GAS

B3FL12001 through B3FL12803

3400 4X GAS DLX

B3FN12001 through B3FN12245

2017

3400 4X GAS

B3FL17001 through B3FL17580

3400 XL GAS

B3FN17001 through B3FN17124

2018

3400 4X GAS

B3FL18001 through B3FL18097

3400 XL GAS

B3FN18001 through B3FN18065

Remedy:  Consumers should contact an authorized Bobcat dealer to schedule a free repair. Bobcat is contacting all known purchasers directly.
Incidents/Injuries:  Bobcat has received seven reports of cracked exhaust pipes. No injuries or fires have been reported.
Sold At:  Bobcat dealers nationwide from August 2014 through July 2018 for between $10,000 and $15,000.
Manufacturer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.
Distributor(s):  Bobcat Company, of West Fargo, N.D.
Manufactured In:  United States
Recall number:  18-757

Polaris Reveals 2019 Model Year Side-by-Sides

Polaris Industries revealed their 2019 model year side-by-side lineup last week with improvements across a host models. In the Ranger product line Ride Command technology will now be available for select Ranger XP 1000 models as a factory-installed package. The Range XP 1000 and Ranger Crew XP 1000 models now include a 20th anniversary edition and the new High Lifter Edition.

2019 model year RZRs feature aggressive styling and performance upgrades across the product lineup. Ride Command will be available in all RZR XP 1000 colors and the RZR XP 1000 Dynamix vehicles. The trail-ready RZR S4 1000 is now powered by a 100 hp engine.

The General lineup has been updated with performance and technology upgrades, as well as new colors and graphics. The following are more specific features for select models.

2019 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS High Lifter Edition

The 2019 model year Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS High Lifter Edition with redesigned half doors and improved driveline strength.

2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS High Lifter Edition – $19,999 MSRP                                    2019 RANGER CREW XP 1000 EPS High Lifter Edition – 21,499 MSRP

  • Redesigned factory-installed half doors with new one-inch water drains
  • 82 hp engine
  • 11″ of suspension travel
  • 20% increase in overall driveline strength
  • New geared reverse transmission
  • 28″ Outlaw tires
  • 13.5″ of ground clearance
  • Crew version has 6-passenger capacity

2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS RIDE COMMAND – $17,999 MSRP                                    2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS NorthStar Edition RIDE COMMAND – $25,999 MSRP

  • Ride Command technology is now available as a factory-installed package
  • Seven-inch glove-touch display features built-in navigation and front and rear cameras.
  • System provides vehicle diagnostics, allows smartphone connectivity and factory-installed in-dash speakers.
  • Topographical map allows consumers to better navigate trail overlays and drop waypoints to remember key locations
  • Interactive interface gives every type of rider the freedom to stay connected while hunting, working on their ranch, or trail riding.

2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS and Ranger XP 1000 EPS NorthStar Edition models

  • Available in four new color options including Steel Blue, Pearl White, Magnetic Gray and Polaris Pursuit® Camo.
Polaris 2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS 20th anniversary

The 2019 Ranger XP 1000 EPS 20th Anniversary edition with two-tone maroon and tan colors and embroidered seats.

2019 Ranger XP1000 EPS 20th Anniversary Limited Edition – $16,799 MSRP            2019 Ranger CREW XP 1000 EPS 20th Anniversary Limited Edition – $17,799

  • Two-tone maroon and tan color option
  • Custom embroidered seats
  • Limited production quantities
Polaris 2019 RZR S4 1000 EPS

The 2019 model year RZR S4 1000 EPS now features 100 hp.

Polaris 2019 RZR XP 1000

The 2019 RZR XP 1000 has new styling and LED lighting.

2019 RZR Xtreme Performance Lineup – Starting at $17,999 MSRP

  • Styling features a more aggressive cut with a chiseled muscular stance
  • LED accent lights
  • Brand-new LED headlights
  • Premium digital instrumentation
  • More storage
  • DYNAMIX active suspension and Ride Command technology now available on RZR XP 1000 models
  • Horsepower boost to 100 hp for the 2019 RZR S4 1000

2019 General – Starting at $16,299 MSRP

  • New colors and graphics
  • Factory-installed bronze wheels on the Ride Command edition

Learn more:  Polaris.com

Polaris Industries Reports Q2 2018 Results

2019 Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS

New models like the 2019 Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS helped drive side-by-side revenue for the quarter.

Polaris Industries reported their financial results for the second quarter of 2018. Second quarter 2018 revenue increased 10% year over year to $1.503 billion with the ORV/Snowmobile segment jumping 17% to $993 million and off-road vehicles, excluding PG&A, increased 19%. Some of the gains in ORV were because of the need to boost dealer inventory levels to match retail demand.

Earnings Call Highlights

The following are highlights from the earnings call related to the small, task-oriented vehicle market.

  • The powersports market in North America is essentially flat to up slightly with Polaris ORV flat
  • ORV retail is growing in every region of the US
  • Ag markets have not slowed down at all at this point
  • ORV/Snowmobile segment sales were up 17% in Q2
  • Improved ORV demand for side-by-sides worldwide, and availability and sale of new models accelerated during the quarter helped drive sales
  • Polaris side-by-side North American retail sales up mid-single digits driven by new products and improved oil/gas and agriculture markets
  • Average selling prices for ORV increased 3% and promotional spending per unit decreased
  • Polaris gained market share in side-by-sides and ATV for the quarter
  • Production costs are increasing due to higher logistical and commodity costs
  • ORV helped drive international growth, particularly in Europe
  • Global Adjacent Markets sales increased 17% in the second quarter to $113 million, due to growth in Commercial, Government, and Defense businesses

Guidance for Full Year 2018

  • Management increased guidance for the Global Adjacents and ORV businesses with Global Adjacents expected to be up low-double digits % for the year and ORV/Snowmobiles up high-single digits %
  • ORV sales are expected to be up high single-digits percent from international results and pricing actions and slightly higher volumes

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Earnings call transcript)

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S Reviews

Polaris RZR SP Turbo S

The RZR XP Turbo S has 25″ of usable front and rear suspension travel.

Polaris introduced their new, top-of-the-line RZR, the 72-inch RZR XP Turbo S in March. The RZR XP Turbo S was completely “redesigned and reengineered” with a reinforced chassis, stronger axels and other strengthened components. Like other high performance RZRs this model is powered by a 168 hp ProStar turbo H.O. engine. Rather than bump up the horsepower, Polaris beefed up almost every other aspect of the vehicle. The XP Turbo S features 32″ ITP Coyote tires 16″ of ground clearance and 25% more assist in power steering. This model also has the Dynamix Active Suspension system, 19″ or 21″ of wheel travel depending on settings and 25″ of what Polaris refers to as useable travel to the skid plate. The drive system is the new Isolated Xtreme Performance True On-Demand AWD/2WD with greater front drive impact strength, improved throttle control and a redesigned clutch box “..for better air flow and decreased belt temperatures.”

Other key specs and features of the RZR XP Turbo S include:

  • 4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc with Triple-Bore Front and Dual-Bore Rear Calipers
  • EPS
  • 2.5″/3″ FOX Podium Internal Bypass Shocks with Live Valve
  • Premium Sparco Steering Wheel
  • Bolstered Bucket Seats with 4-point Harness
  • Aluminum Roof
  • Bowed 1/4 Doors
  • Front Blacked Out White LED Low/High w/ Accent Lights & Rear Red LED Tail / Brake / Accent Lights
  • Rear Wired Camera
  • RIDE COMMAND™ 7” Glove-Touch Display with DYNAMIX Visualizer
  • Built-In GPS
  • Bluetooth & USB Smartphone Connectivity
  • GoPro® Control
  • In-Vehicle Communications Capable
  • Ride Command App Integration

The RZR XP Turbo S is available in Indy Red or Polaris Blue and has an MSRP of $27,499.

Below are highlights from reviews of the RZR XP Turbo S from a Polaris arranged test drive event in the desert near Las Vegas, NV. Not surprising for a high end vehicle, the reviews in general are predominantly positive. The Dynamix Active suspension with the new FOX shocks is a big hit. Reviewers are amazed at how the vehicle handles rough terrain and can corner. Reviewers noted the difficulty of the trails on which they drove the vehicles and on several occasions the vehicles easily handled terrain where the driver thought they had pushed the envelope too far. The new steering wheel is also widely praised. While the turbo provides the same horsepower as the previous RZR Turbo model, reviewers found the power output to be more than adequate and good throughout the throttle range. On the negative side, seat comfort could be an issue, one reviewer wants full doors and one wants a lower low range for rock crawling. The 4-point harness is welcomed but can take some adjusting.

UTVGuide.net – Las Vegas test drive first ride review

  • Feels sturdy and stout
  • Designed for 32″ tires
  • Can adjust suspension from the cab
  • Good visibility from the cockpit
  • Improved CVT cooling and stronger front differential
  • Liked the LED accent lights
  • Liked the new Sparco steering wheel
  • Not enough legroom
  • “Low range is too high for technical rock crawling.”
  • Too much seat movement in rough terrain
  • Hard to adjust harness
  • Usable travel is the distance from the bottom of the tires while at full droop to the skid plate.

UTVDriver.com – Las Vegas test drive first ride review

  • New Sparco steering wheel much better
  • EPS system works well similar to other RZRs
  • 32″ tires are “hook up well” and are smoother over obstacles than 29″ Bighorns
  • “Tires track and slide predictably” but wear relatively quickly in the rear in 2WD
  • Felt quick despite width and long travel
  • Punchy throughout throttle positions and a top speed of 85 mph
  • CVT belt appears more durable
  • Handles big bumps really well
  • Can drive with confidence with stronger suspension components
  • Would have liked full doors

Forbes.com – Las Vegas test drive  – This reviewer’s perspective is from a rider less experienced with high-end side-by-sides than the typical reviewers.

  • “…no flexing, clanking or rattling on the roughest of trails.”
  • Harness is “fiddly”
  • Soaks up the bumps
  • Provides a controlled and stable ride
  • “Ridiculously fast”

Dirt Trax Video  – Specs Review and some commentary

  • Best Polaris EPS system of any RZR to date
  • Balanced through the corners

SXSBlog.com – Full video review. Includes an informative discussion with Polaris technical about how the Dynamix system works.  This accompanying article provides an in-depth technical review.

  • Like the RIDE Command touchscreen
  • Linear power and well-tuned – more driveable
  • Impressive ride on very difficult terrain
  • Can really take a hit
  • “Dynamix system is real”
  • Longer throttle to control compared to X3
  • “Wow. that is super impressive…70 mph through those whoops”
  • “Tough and works really well”
  • Handles really well through corners

Brandon Pierce – Las Vegas test drive video

  • Love the steering wheel
  • Like the comfort setting on the suspension
  • Feels fast
  • This is a “beast”

Brandon Pierce – Polaris Marketing Spokesman Vehicle Walkaround & Main Points

  • Completely redesigned from old turbo model -not just larger tires and long travel kit
  • 168 hp turbo is the same but top speed increased to 85 mph and throttle mapping more aggressive for 32″ tires
  • Toughest machine – 32″ tires, which requires redesigned chassis and other components – control arms, tire rods, spherical, knuckles, trailing arms, radius rods, axles; larger and stronger front drive; improved clutch box and belt cooling
  • Higher ground clearance but same center of gravity as previous RZR Turbo
  • Most capable suspension – Smart travel with Dynamix Active suspension, usable travel and improved FOX Live Valve internal bypass shocks shocks
  • Most evolved cockpit – new Sparco wheel, new seats, 4-point harness, new driving position in relation to wheel and maintained sight lines; Ride Command with rear view camera;
  • Lower profile ROPS with more welds and generally beefier
  • Aluminum roof

Polaris Tailors UTVs for Police, Fire & Rescue

Ranger Law Enforcement

A Polaris UTV up-fitted for law enforcement use.

Polaris Ranger Fire UTV

A Polaris Ranger up-fitted for fire operations.

Another Polaris UTV with an alternative fire operations kit.

Polaris Ranger

A Polaris UTV up-fitted for rescue operations.

The Government and Defense division of Polaris Industries recently launched a line-up of Ranger UTVs specifically tailored for law enforcement, fire and rescue operations. The vehicles take a Ranger UTV and add a pre-set package of options for each type of operation. Additional customization is available as well. Polaris is using experienced third-party up-fitters Action Fleet, RKO Enterprises and Federal Signal to put the packages together.

The law enforcement UTVs include sirens, horns, PA system and emergency lighting from Federal Signal, the same as a typical squad car. Base vehicles include the Ranger XP 1000 Northstar HVAC Edition, Ranger Crew Diesel, General 1000 EPS, Ranger 570 and RZR S 900.

Firefighting units include a capable pump, hose and reel, a combination tank for water and a compressed air foam suppression system and the ability draft from a water source. There are flexible mounting options and a firefighting and rescue combo kit is available as well. Rescue units include a rear attendant seat and a stokes rescue basket. Rescue personnel can select between the full-length or break-apart basket for shorter overall length when not in use. Base vehicles include the Ranger Crew XP 900, General 4 1000 EPS, Ranger XP 900 and RZR XP 1000 for the most challenging terrain.

Learn more:  Businesswire.com

SVR’s Take – This approach of providing pre-set packages for specific end-use applications while still allowing additional customization is becoming more popular in the commercial UTV market. Club Car has successfully taken this approach to sell their utility vehicles to specific market verticals with their Fit-to Task series.  While Polaris is targeting police and fire and rescue applications the Club Car vehicles are targeting a range of facility management applications. ACE mini-trucks has taken a similar approach.

 

Polaris Earnings Report: Q1 2018

2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS

The new 2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS helped drive ORV sales in the first quarter according to the latest Polaris earnings call.

Polaris Industries reported first quarter 2018 revenues fo $1,297 million, an increase of 12% from the prior year. Adjusted net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 was $69 million compared to $48 million in the 2017 first quarter. ORV/Snowmobile segment sales were up 15% in Q1 driven by improved ORV shipments of side-by-sides worldwide as demand accelerated during the quarter.(ORV includes UTVs and ATVs). The following are highlights of the Polaris earnings call related to the small, task-oriented vehicle market.

  • ORV/Snowmobile segment sales were up 15% in Q1 to $833 million driven by improved ORV shipments of side-by-sides worldwide as demand accelerated during the quarter
  • Average Selling Price of ORV was up 4%
  • First quarter North American (NA) retail sales were driven side-by-side sales
  • NA side-by-side sales were up high single digits %
  • Important oil and agriculture market areas are improving
  • Side-by-sides gained market share in Ranger and RZR brands despite less promotional spending
  • Ranger business grew both in units and in dollars faster than the RZR business
  • The RZR RS1 demand was slightly higher than anticipated but management is not ready to call it a “Grand Slam” product
  • Global Adjacent Markets (GAM) grew revenue by 20% to $113 million and is looking for a strategic acquisition. This segments includes commercial ORVs, Defense, GEM, Aixam, Taylor-Dunn and Goupil sales)
  • GAM vehicle sales increased 25% with strong performance from Aixam, Goupil and government/defense business, and PG&A sales increased 19%
  • International ORV/Snow sales increased 20%
  • GAM international sales increased by 32%
  • Polaris has the leading ORV market share outside of North America
  • Polaris increased its full year 2018 sales guidance to up 4% to 6%
    • ORV/Snow is expected to increase mid-single digits %
    • GAM is expected to increase high single digits %
  • Management addressed the latest recalls and stated that they were part of the process of improving their systems, working with the CPSC and identifying any previous outstanding thermal issues. Moving forward under the new systems in place management expects to see fewer recalls involving a smaller number of vehicles.

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Polaris Earnings Call Transcript)

SVR’s Take:  This was another strong Polaris earnings report and the last large recall appears to be related more to the company’s previous issues than an ongoing or new problem. The company seems to be back on track with strong performance in both Ranger and RZR and introducing innovative new products like the RZR RS1. I’m curious to see what the GAM acquisition they referred to could be. After the failed Eicher-Polaris JV are they going to try to buy their way into the Southeast Asian STOV market as an alternative? In the past they have often acquired strong brands that could be grown with improved financial and engineering resources as well as expanded distribution. I previously speculated on the pros and cons of Garia as an acquisition target, which offers a luxury international brand and electric vehicles.

Polaris Issues Massive RZR XP 1000 Recall

Polaris RZR XP 1000

The Polaris 2014 RZR XP 1000 in Pearl Black is one of the models being recalled.

Polaris has once again had to issue a major recall of over 100,000 side-by-sides. The recall involves approximately 107,000 model year 2014 to 2018 RZR XP 1000 and RZR XP 4 1000 vehicles. The exhaust silence can fatigue and crack leading to too much heat for the heat shield to manage which in turn lead to components melting or fire. Consumers should immediately stop riding the affected vehicles and contact a Polaris dealer for a free repair. The following recall information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Name of product:  Model Year 2014-2018 Polaris RZR XP 1000

Hazard:  If the exhaust silencer fatigues and cracks, the heat shield may not manage heat, which may lead to melting of nearby components or fire.

Remedy:  Repair

Recall date:  April 2, 2018

Units:  About 107,000

Recall Details

Description:
This recall involves Model Year 2014-18 Polaris RZR XP 1000 recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs). The ROVs have “POLARIS” stamped on the front and back grilles, and “Polaris,” “RZR,” “1000,” & “XP” stickers on the side panels. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on the right rear frame of the vehicle, to the rear of the engine. See CPSC.gov for specific model numbers.

Remedy:
Consumers should immediately stop riding the affected vehicles and contact a Polaris dealer for a free repair.

Incidents/Injuries:  Polaris has received 30 reports of cracked exhaust silencers, including 3 reports of fire. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At:  Polaris dealers nationwide since December 2013.

Manufacturer(s):  Polaris Industries, Inc., of Minn.

Importer(s):  Polaris Industries, Inc., of Minn.

Distributor(s):  Polaris Industries, Inc., of Minn.

Manufactured In:  United States and Mexico

Recall number:  18-133

Consumer Contact:  Polaris at 800-765-2747 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.polaris.com and click on “Off Road Safety Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information. In addition, check your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the “Product Safety Recalls” page to see if your vehicle is included in any recalls. Polaris is contacting all known affected consumers directly.

SVR’s Take:   This is yet another massive recall for Polaris. The company was just starting to rebound from the previous rounds of RZR and Ranger recalls. Some of these models pre-date the company’s efforts to implement a new quality system and add personnel to address issues while others are from after that effort. It appears that either the silencer component was either poorly made or not designed robustly enough to perform the task. In some ways this recall may be worse the prior ones since the management has taken steps to remedy the quality issues but they yet again have a large recall. The Polaris brand will likely take a hit from this. Occasionally the company provides some brand metrics in their presentations to analysts and it will be interesting to hear what the management says about the recall in the next earnings call.

Polaris Introduces 2019 Ranger Crew XP 1000

2019 Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS

The new 2019 Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS in Sunset Red Metallic

Polaris Industries announced their new 2019 Ranger Crew XP 1000 with a host of improvements driven by owner feedback. The six-passenger Ranger Crew XP 1000 features a 82 hp ProStar 1000 engine, 2,500 lbs. of towing capacity, 1,750 lbs. of payload capacity and 13″ of ground clearance. Some of the key features and improvements for the 2019 Ranger Crew XP 1000 include:

  • High Performance On-Demand True AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
  • More rigid chassis
  • Redesigned heavy-duty PVT clutch system
  • Sealed suspension bushings
  • Crew-specific tuned shocks and springs
  • 1,000 lbs. cargo box capacity
  • EPS
  • 26″ tires (base model)
  • 11″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • 10% tighter turning radius
  • Thicker and more durable cut and sew seats
  • 5″ of additional clearance for front and rear seat entry and egress
  • New digital/analogue gauge
  • New flip-up front and rear seats and new under-seat-pass-through for better storage
  • Double glove box
  • 8 cup holders
  • Full body skid plate
  • Large front bumper with an integrated Polaris Glacier® plow mount as well as mounting points for lighting accessories and a Polaris winch

The Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS comes in several trims including the base model in Sage Green with an MSRP of $16,299, the Sunset Red Metallic version for $17,4999 and the Polaris Pursuit Camo version for $17,699. The latter two include an adjustable driver seat, 27″ Maxxis MU51 tires and Aluminum Black Xcelerator 2.0 wheels in addition to their special paint and graphics.

There is also the Ranger XP 1000 EPS Northstar HVAC Edition which features the tire and wheel upgrade as well as a factory-installed heating and air conditioning system and the new, premium RANGER Pro Shield™ cab system. The cab has improved dust protection and air flow to the front and rear, crank window doors and a wiper/washer system. This model comes in Sunset Red Metallic and is available for $26,499. These models will be available at local Polaris dealers in late April.

Learn more:  Businesswire.com and Polaris.com