Yamaha Adds New Viking UTVs to Lineup for 2018

Posted on July 19, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The new Yamaha Viking EPS Ranch for 2018.

Also new for 2018 is the Yamaha Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition

Yamaha has announced the addition of the Viking EPS Ranch and Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition UTVs for model year 2018. The Viking EPS Ranch features a hard sun top, aluminum wheels, over fenders, color-matched interior, underseat storage, comfort-grip steering wheel, center rearview mirror and Ranch Edition badging, and is available in Metallic Sand. Key specs for the 2018 Viking EPS Ranch include:

686cc SOHC engine with EFI
On-Command 3-way locking differential – 2WD, 4WD, locked 4WD
Engine braking
EPS
8.1″ of front and rear suspension travel
11.8″ of ground clearance
600 lb. cargo bed
1,500 lb. towing capacity
MSRP: $14,199

The six-passenger 2018 Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition features Metallic Sand painted bodywork with a color-matched interior, aluminum wheels, a soft sun top, rearview center mirror, mud flaps, over fenders, underseat storage, a bed grab bar, an aggressive front brush guard and Ranch Edition badging. Except for slightly lower ground clearance this model features many of the same key specs as the Viking EPS Ranch including:

686cc SOHC engine with EFI
On-Command 3-way locking differential – 2WD, 4WD, locked 4WD
Engine braking
EPS
8.1″ of front and rear suspension travel
11.4″ of ground clearance
600 lb. cargo bed
1,500 lb. towing capacity
MSRP: $15,599

Learn more: Yamahamotorsports.com

Kawasaki Announces 2018 UTVs

Posted on July 19, 2017 by Marc Cesare

New for 2018 is the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR shown here in Atomic Silver.

Kawasaki recently announced their 2018 line-up of UTVs. One of the key additions is the new Mule Pro-FXR. The Pro-FXR builds on their successful Pro-FX and Pro-FXT models with new styling highlights and recreational features. In the styling department the Mule Pro-FXR features a “truck like appearance” with painted bodywork, low-profile LED inner and halogen outer headlights, front and rear bumpers and contoured two-tone seats. For recreational riding the FXR is shorter than the other Pro Mules (about 12″ shorter than the FX) and sports a shorter turning radius (14.0 ft. compared to 16.0 ft. for the FX) and higher ground clearance (about 0.5″). Pricing has not been released for the vehicle. Other key features of the 2018 Mule Pro-FXR include:

812cc, DOHC, 3-cylinder engine with EFI
2WD/4WD/4WD with rear differential lock
Engine braking
EPS
10.8″ of ground clearance
1,000 lb. steel cargo bed
2,000 lb. towing capacity

The 2018 Teryx LE in a new color – Matrix Camo Gray.

The Teryx4 LE in Candy Plasma Blue, a new color for LE versions in 2018.

New for 2018, the Teryx LE can be purchased in Candy Plasma Blue or Matrix Camo Gray paint, while the 2018 Teryx4 LE is available in Candy Lime Green, Candy Plasma Blue, and Matrix Camo Gray graphics. It also appears that they lowered prices across the Teryx and Teryx4 models by $1,250 compared to 2017.

For the rest of the lineup in 2018 there appear to be no major changes except for some new MSRP pricing. The 2018 models for the Mule Pro-FX, Pro-FXT and Pro-DX lines all received a small $100 increase in their MSRPs compared to 2017. The Mule SX model lineup maintained the same pricing for the 2018 models as did the 2018 Mule 4000 and 4010 models. Learn more: Kawasaki

Can Am Introduces 2018 Side-by-Sides

Posted on June 4, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The Can Am Maverick X3 X RS Turbo R is one of the new 2018 models getting a horsepower boost.

A 120 hp entry level model, the Can Am Maverick X3 Turbo, has been added to the lineup.

An entry level crew version was added as well, the Maverick X3 Max Turbo.

Can Am introduced their new 2018 side-by-side models including a 172 hp Maverick X3 Turbo R model with a 0-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds. This is a 12% increase in power from the previous 154 hp models. The MSRP for the Turbo R is $22,999. Other models featuring the 172 hp turbocharged engine include the Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R ($24,999) and Maverick X3 X RS Turbo R ($26,899) as well as the MAX/crew versions for all three models ranging in price from $24,999 to $29,399.

In a sign of the competitive nature and some slowing in the side-by-side market, Can Am also introduced entry level models, the Maverick X3 Turbo and the Maverick X3 MAX Turbo priced at $19,999 and $21,999, respectively. Both of these models feature a 120 hp turbocharged engine.

The Can Am Defender Max is a lower priced crew option for 2018.

The Defender Max XT Cab features some improved off-road capabilities.

Similarly, an entry level crew model was added for the Defender line, the Defender MAX with an HD8 engine option. This model is priced at $12,399 but does not have power steering like the Defender MAX DPS priced at $14,699. Also added to the Defender line for 2018 is a new Defender MAX XT Cab model with the HD10 engine. This model features an enhanced ground clearance of 11″, arched A-arms, larger 220 mm brakes, and a wider 67″ width.

1000R variations of models like the Can Am Commander XT now feature more horsepower with a 92 hp engine.

For the Commander line the 1000R versions of the Commander DPS, XT, Limited, Mossy Oak Hunting Edition as well as the MAX crew models receive a boost in engine horsepower from 85 hp to 92 hp as well as larger brakes and a wider stance that is increased to 61.2 inches. The price of the entry level Commander 800R has been reduced $1,000 to $11,199.

Learn more: BRP.com

Can Am is dedicated to rolling out new models on a regular basis. These newest models indicate that the horsepower competition between manufacturers is likely to continue. At the same time, the introduction of lower-priced entry level models show there is a sizable part of the market that is price conscious which manufacturers consider worth pursuing. New entry level models are also another indication of the increased competitiveness in the side-by-side market, which is experiencing both more manufacturers targeting specific market segments, as well as, slower overall market growth compared to just a few years ago. The pie is not growing as fast and there are more mouths to feed.

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Hustler Turf Enters UTV Market with LEVELIFT™ Bed Technology

Posted on May 16, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The new Hustler Turf MDF LevelLift utility vehicle features a patented bed technology.

The new Hustler Turf MDV utility vehicle.

Hustler Turf, a manufacturer of zero-turn mowers, is entering the utility vehicle market with two models, including one with their patented LevelLift bed technology. LevelLift allows the bed to be lowered to the ground or raised back up for easier loading/unloading of material. The bed can lift up to 750 lbs and can dump material from any point in its arc of motion.

The two models being offered by Hustler Turf are the MDV and MDV LevelLift. MDV stands for Maximum Duty Vehicle and as the words suggest the vehicles are designed for heavy-duty applications on ranches or farms, parks, campuses and industrial locations. Some of the key features common to both models include:

Kohler, 1038cc, 23.4 hp diesel engine
2WD/AWD
37 mph top speed
Independent front suspension with flex swing arm
Floating rear axle
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
25″ wheels
1,650 lb. towing capacity
8″ of ground clearance
Power steering

The most significant difference between the two models is that the MDV has a 1,200 lb. cargo box capacity and the MDV LevelLift has the bed technology with a 750 lb. cargo box capacity. The manufacturer’s website does not list any MSRPs for the models but I found vehicle pricing on an Internet listing the MDV MSRP at $15,999 and the MDV LevelLift MSRP at $20,999.

Hustler Turf adds to the list of power and farm equipment manufacturers that have been updating or starting utility vehicle lines over the last several years. While some like Cub Cadet are offering value priced vehicles with a nice package of features and others are offering utility vehicles to fill out their stable of products, Hustler Turf is providing a vehicle with a unique technology. The significant price premium for the technology in the MDV LevelLift model suggest that it will probably have a relatively limited market appeal. However, it may prove highly useful for specific applications. This is in line with recent trends in the commercial UTV market, where manufacturers are offering pre-configured vehicles or special option packages designed for specific end-use applications.

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Another Polaris Recall: RZR, RZR Turbo & GENERAL Vehicles

Posted on March 3, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The model year 2017 is the General 1000 EPS Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo is one of the vehicles involved in the recall.

Polaris announced a recall of model year 2016 and 2017 RZR 900, 1000, Turbo and GENERAL 1000 utility vehicles. The recall involves approximately 13,500 vehicles. According to the notice, “The vehicle engine can misfire and the temperatures of the exhaust and nearby components can get too hot and cause the components to melt, and/or a contaminated brake master cylinder may cause unintended brake drag, posing burn and fire hazards.”

Relative to more recent Polaris recalls this one is not that large, but compared to more typical recalls in the industry that involve a few thousand vehicles, this is a large recall. The recall does include RZR 900, 1000 and RZR Turbo models that have previously been recalled. The GENERAL 1000 being involved in a recall is a new development.

Based on recent quarterly earnings calls with Wall Street analysts, the management has put a lot of money and manpower into fixing the underlying product development issues that lead to their recent massive RZR and Ranger recalls. The origin of the issues for this latest recall probably pre-date these efforts, but management is likely disappointed with this development as they have been trying to put these recalls behind them and repair damage to the Polaris brand. A recent report from BMO Capital Markets states that the recall is considered a ‘non-event’ by dealers who are having strong start to the year and think the recall will only have a ‘minimal impact’.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units: About 13,500 (The RZR Turbo and RZR 900 and 1000 have previously been recalled.)

Description: This recall involves model year 2016 and 2017 RZR 900, 1000, Turbo and GENERAL 1000 recreational off-road vehicles (ROVs). “Polaris” is printed on the front grill and “RZR” or “GENERAL” is printed on the side of the rear cargo area. The ROVs were sold in various colors. Visit the CPSC website see a complete list of the models involve.

Incidents/Injuries: Polaris has received 14 reports of vehicles catching fire related to the brake master cylinder and one report of fire and two reports of melting vehicle components related to an engine misfire. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ROVs and contact Polaris for a free repair. Polaris is contacting all known purchasers directly, and consumers can check their VIN on the Polaris website.

Sold At: Polaris dealers nationwide from August 2015 through February 2017 for between $12,800 and $24,000.

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

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

Manufactured In: Mexico and U.S.

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Cub Cadet Expands Challenger UTV Line

Posted on March 2, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The new Cub Cadet Challenger 750 utility vehicle

The new Cub Cadet Challenger 550 utility vehicle

Cub Cadet has launched the Challenger 550 and Challenger 750 utility vehicles as they continue to expand the Challenger product line, which already includes the 400, 400 LX, 500, 700 and 750 Crew. The new models continue Cub Cadet’s theme of providing a value oriented offering with a solid set of standard features.

The Challenger 550/750 comes standard with what is essentially a partially enclosed cab with high-sided sealed doors, standard roof and sealed ROPS. Optional upper doors and a rear window are available to create a completely weather-sealed cab. The interior cab design features interior and exterior door handles, a tilting steering wheel, open storage, closed glove box and premium sculpted seats.

The new models are designed for customization with a front accessory mounting panel above the windshield and a rear mounting rack. The cargo bed has integrated attachment points or “T” slots for purpose built accessories. The vertical slots accept standard ¾-inch plywood for partitions and slots on top of the side rails to accommodate standard 1 x 3-inch furring strips.

“Customization of utility vehicles is extremely important according to the customers we continually talk with,” said Tom Mielke, UV Product Marketing Manager, Cub Cadet. “We’ve designed the Challenger Series with exclusive features that give owners the power to customize their utility vehicle for the challenges they face – at the farm, ranch, off-road or in the woods. These new additions continue to raise the bar on standard features, designed around what people want to do with their UV while also improving style, comfort and convenience.”

A growing list of accessories will be available in 2017 to customize the vehicle including:

Upper Doors (Pair)
Scratch-Resistant Vented or Folding Polycarbonate Windshields
Rear Window
Spare Tire Mount
Dual 11.5-Inch LED Light Bar Kit
Four Cube LED Light Kit
Rock Sliders
Rear Bumper
Front and Rear Turf Tires
72-Inch Snow Blade

Key specs and features for the the Challenger 550 and 750 are as follows:

546cc, 27.5 hp EFI engine (550); 735cc, 35.8 hp EFI engine (750)
Top speed 45 mph
On-demand 2WD/4WD and automatic CVT
Selectable locking front/rear differential
3-way adjustable shocks
12″ of ground clearance
26″ tires
500 lb. capacity dump bed
1,200 lb. towing capacity
3,500 lb. winch
Sealed windshield
High-sided doors
Roof
LED headlights
Available colors: Cub Yellow, Blue, Red, Black and Camo
MSRP: Challenger 550 – $9,999; Challenger 750 – $10,999

A quick comparison between the Challenger 750 and 700 shows that the 750 has a more powerful engine, larger capacity cargo box by 150 lbs., improved doors and windshield, LED rather than halogen headlights, slightly more ground clearance and a better drivetrain. The differences between the Challenger 550 and 500 are similar.

The new UTVs are available at local Cub Cadet dealers. Learn more: Cub Cadet

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Can-Am Adds 2017 Maverick X3 Max Models

Posted on February 27, 2017 by Marc Cesare

2017 Can-Am Maverick X3

2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X ds

2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X rs

Can-Am recently announced their new four-passenger Maverick X3 Max family of vehicles for model year 2017. The lineup includes the Maverick X3 Max, X3 Max X ds and the X3 Max X rs and continues the company’s plan to launch new side-by-side vehicles every six months. Key specs for the Maverick X3 Max include:

154 hp, Rotax ACE 900cc turbocharged engine with electronic fuel injection and Donaldson high-performance air filter
Quick Response System X (QRS-X) CVT
Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok X auto-locking front differential
Dynamic Power Steering
20″ of front and rear suspension travel
4-link Torsional Trailing-arm X rear suspension
FOX 2.5 PODIUM Piggyback with QS3 compression adjustment and bottom-out control
13″ of ground clearance
Hydraulic brakes with twin-piston calipers
28″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires and 14″ aluminum wheels
64″ width
Integrated front bumper
HMW skid plate
Quarter doors
LED headlights and tail lights with unique Can-Am LED signature
MSRP: $24,999
Available in White

The Maverick X3 Max X ds has many of the same features with the following differences:

FOX 2.5 PODIUM RC2 Piggyback with dual speed compression and rebound adjustments
29″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
14″ Aluminum beadlock wheels
Slightly longer at 164.4″ vs. 162″
MSRP: $27,399
Available in Triple Black and Circuit Yellow

The Maverick X3 Max X rs has many of the same features with the following differences:

FOX 2.5 PODIUM RC2 Piggyback with bypass, dual speed compression and rebound adjustments in the front
FOX 3.0 PODIUM RC2 remote reservoir with bypass, dual speed compression and rebound adjustments in the rear
22″ of front/rear suspension travel
14″ of ground clearance
30″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
14″ Aluminum beadlock wheels
72″ width compared to 64″
Slightly more than 100 lbs heavier
Full roof
MSRP: $29,099
Available in Triple Black and Gold & Can-Am Red

Learn more: Can-am.brp.com

Arctic Cat Announces 2017 Special Edition Wildcats

Posted on February 27, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Arctic Cat’s new Wildcat Sport SE EPS

Arctic Cat’s new Wildcat Trail SE EPS

Arctic Cat has announced two new special edition Wildcats for the 2017 model year, the Wildcat Sport SE EPS and the Wildcat Trail SE EPS. Special edition features on these models include:

Warn 3,000 lb. synthetic rope winch
Polycarbonate half windshield
Electronic power steering
Aluminum rims polished with black inlays
Infinitely adjustable tilt steering
TEAM Rapid Response clutch
Electronic 2WD/4WD front differential lock
2″ receiver
Shocks
- Trail SE EPS: FOX premium gas-charged shocks
- Sport SESEPs: King aluminum gas shocks with single-speed adjustment

The Wildcat Sport SE EPS retails for $16,499 and the Wildcat Trail SE EPS for $14,699.

Other key specs for the Wildcat Sport SE EPS include:

700cc, 4-stroke, twin cylinder engine
36 amp alternator
Double-A-arm front and rear suspension
12.2″/12.6″ of front/rear suspension travel
13″ of ground clearance
26″ Carlisle Trail Pro tires
Halogen headlights and LED brake/tail lights
Digital instrumentation
300 lb. cargo box
1,500 lb. towing capacity
Hydraulic disc brakes
Full doors
Matte Black automotive-style paint

Key specs for the Wildcat Trail SE EPS include:

700cc, 4-stroke, twin cylinder engine
36 amp alternator
Double-A-arm front and rear suspension
10″/10.5″ of front/rear suspension travel
10″ of ground clearance
25″ Carlisle Trail Pro tires
Halogen headlights and LED brake/tail lights
Digital instrumentation
300 lb. cargo box
1,500 lb. towing capacity
Hydraulic disc brakes
Full doors
Matte Black automotive-style paint

BRP Recalls Can-Am Defender UTVs

Posted on January 20, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The 2016 Can-Am Defender is part of the recall.

BRP has issued a recall for about 780 model year 2016 Can-Am Defender utility vehicles because the vehicles can unexpectedly roll away when in the “park” position. The recall includes Defender, Defender DPS and Defender XT models. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact a BRP dealer to schedule a free repair.

This recall is on the small size compared to what is typical in the industry. Luckily, no injuries have been reported.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units: About 780

Description:

This recall involves model year 2016 Can-Am Defender, Defender DPS, and Defender XT model side-by-side off-road vehicles. The vehicles were sold in various colors and have four tires, two seats and a cargo box on the back. “Can-am” is printed on the side of the cargo box and the model name is printed on the side of the front of the vehicle beside the headlight. The model name and vehicle identification number (VIN) are printed on a label under the glove box. Contact BRP or a BRP dealer to verify VINs included in the recall.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received six reports of the vehicles moving when in the “park” or “P” position. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact a BRP dealer to schedule a free repair. BRP is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Sold At: Can-Am dealers nationwide from October 2015 through December 2016 for between $10,000 and $15,700.

Importer(s): BRP U.S. Inc., of Sturtevant, Wis.

Manufactured In: Mexico

Consumer Contact: BRP toll-free at 888-272-9222 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET any day or online at www.can-am.brp.com and click on the Off-Road website and then the “Owners” tab at the top of the page and then “Safety” and then “View Notices” for more information.

Polaris Announces New UTV Models

Posted on January 9, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Ride Command Edition Black Pearl headlines the mid model year UTV additions.

Polaris announced a number of new utility vehicles across their General, Ranger and RZR product lines. As is typical for these mid-year additions, the models are variations of existing vehicles and many are new color options.

Most notable is the Ride Command edition of the General 1000 EPS, the General1000 EPS Ride Command Edition Black Pearl. Ride Command was launched last year on a limited edition RZR XP 1000 EPS and met with enough success to carry over the technology to the General line. Ride Command “…enables riders to connect with other riders and provides centralized, seamless device control, including integration with mobile phones, cameras and audio.”

The RIDE COMMAND system includes the RIDE COMMAND mobile app and a weather-resistant, glove-touch RIDE COMMAND 7-in. display. The centralized display is the central hub for GPS mapping, listening to favorite music through Bluetooth® or AM/FM radio, controlling a GoPro® camera and to receive texts. In tandem with the RIDE COMMAND app, the display allows riders to track other riders in their group without needing to physically see them. The app also enables riders to map routes in advance, as well as track and share their ride directly to their social feed.

The Polaris GENERAL 1000 EPS RIDE COMMAND Edition Black Pearl features the RIDE COMMAND 7-in. display and several accessories that integrate into the system including front and rear cameras, and a MTX® Premium 8-Speaker Audio system. Other standard accessories include a front bumper, Polaris HD 4500 lb. Winch, Poly Sport Roof and FOX® QS3 Shocks.

The MSRP for this model is $21,499.

The Ranger XP 900 EPS in Silver Pearl.

A Ranger XP 900 EPS Silver Pearl option has also been added and features automotive style paint, aluminum wheels and electronic power steering (EPS) with an MSRP of $13,999. For the Ranger 500 a Sage Green color option was added with the MSRP remaining unchanged at $8,999.

For the RZR product line the new additions consist of new color options for various models with no changes to MSRPs compared to similar models. New color options include:

RZR S 900 EPS Titanium Metallic
RZR 4 900 EPS Titanium Metallic
RZR S 1000 EPS Spectra Orange
RZR XP 1000 EPS White Lightning with Reflex Blue
RZR XP 4 1000 EPS White Lightning with Reflex Blue

It is not surprising that there aren’t any big additions to their line-up. Not only is it mid model year but Polaris has been putting a lot of resources toward fixing their recall issues with Rangers and RZRs. The recall issue also impacts dealer inventory which Polaris is trying to closely manage and any major additions would require adding to dealer inventory. While Polaris is not likely to stop launching significant new models, they will probably be launched mid calendar year by which they hope to have resolved a majority of the recall issues.

Learn more: Polaris.com

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Category Archives: Pricing info

Yamaha Adds New Viking UTVs to Lineup for 2018

Kawasaki Announces 2018 UTVs

Can Am Introduces 2018 Side-by-Sides

Hustler Turf Enters UTV Market with LEVELIFT™ Bed Technology

Another Polaris Recall: RZR, RZR Turbo & GENERAL Vehicles

Cub Cadet Expands Challenger UTV Line

Can-Am Adds 2017 Maverick X3 Max Models

Arctic Cat Announces 2017 Special Edition Wildcats

BRP Recalls Can-Am Defender UTVs

Polaris Announces New UTV Models