Polaris Announces 2018 UTVs

Posted on August 7, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The new 2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS.

Polaris recently introduced their new UTVs for model year 2018. An updated Ranger XP 1000 priced at $16,299 features a redesigned exterior and interior. Key changes include:

Increased hp from 80 to 82
New large-ratio clutch and redesigned driveline
Redesigned under-hood air intakes and a new clutch cover provide increased air flow for cooler, longer-lasting belt life.
Improved driveline geometry is designed to increase efficiency and produce a quieter ride.
Increased towing capacity to 2,500 lbs.
Stiffer chassis
27″ Maxxis tires with Black Xcelerator 2.0 aluminum wheels
New front end, larger headlights, new grill and larger front bumper
Integrated Polaris Glacier plow mount
Reduced steering ratio and tighter turning radius,
New front sway bar
Polaris engine braking system is now standard
More entry/exit clearance, more legroom and better bottom seat cushions
New flip-up passenger seat

2018 Polaris General 1000 EPS Limited Edition with military graphics.

For the GENERAL line a GENERAL 1000 EPS Limited Edition has been added with custom military-themed graphics on Matte Sagebrush Green automotive-style paint, and cut-and-sew leather-like custom seats. This model also has a:

4,500 lb. Polaris HD Winch
Front Bumper
Maxxis Coronado Tires
Lock & Ride Headache Rack
$18,999 MSRP

The new Polaris RZR XP Turbo EPS Dynamix Edition for 2018.

The RZR line in 2018 will include the RZR XP Turbo Dynamix Edition which features RZR DynamixActive suspension. Dynamix tunes the suspension on the fly with 200 adjustments per second and is integrated with the Polaris Ride Command system. The MSRP for this model is $25,999.

The 2018 Polaris ACE 570 EPS

The ACE lineup now includes an all new ACE 570 EPS for $8,999. This model is $500 more than the ACE 570, but features:

Electronic power steering
Trail premium dual A-arm front suspension with more ground clearance
Factory installed quarter doors
Mud guards
Stainless steel exhaust
Improved seat slider
Slightly less weight

Learn more: Polaris.com

Honda Introduces 2018 Pioneer UTVs

Posted on July 20, 2017 by Marc Cesare

for 2018 Honda has increased pricing slightly on their popular Pioneer UTVs like the Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe shown here.

Honda has introduced their 2018 lineup of UTVs and it looks a lot like their 2017 lineup. There are six variations of the Pioneer 1000 including crew versions and four variations of the Pioneer 700. Honda has increased prices slightly for the 2018 model year with each of the Pioneer 1000 models including crew versions receiving a $300 increase in their MSRP. The Pioneer 1000 lineup price range is now from $14,199 to $21,899. For the Pioneer 700 models the MSRP has been boosted by $200 for each model except for the base model Pioneer 700, which increased only $100. The Pioneer 700 models now range from $10,599 to $13,699. A 2018 version of the entry level Pioneer 500 with a $8,999 MSRP has not been introduced.

Common specifications across the Pioneer 1000 lineup include:

999cc engine
6 speed automatic dual clutch transmission
High/low sub-transmission
QuickFlip seating for 5-passenger crew versions

Except for the base model the lineup also includes:

Electronic power steering
Tilt steering wheel
Manual shift mode (paddle shift)
“Sport” mode

The limited edition models add:

I-4WD brake traction control system
FOX QS-3 shocks
27″ tires and 14″ aluminum wheels
Colored door and bed panels
LED head lights
Painted bodywork

The Pioneer 700 lineup also received a small price increase for 2018. The Pioneer 700-4 Deluxe shown in Pearl Orange.

The Pioneer 700 models feature:

675cc, OHV engine
2WD, 4WD and 4WD with Differential lock and AT/MT modes with paddle shifting on the deluxe models.
7.9″/9.1″ of front/rear suspension travel
10.7″ of ground clearance
1,000 lb. bed capacity
1.500 lb. towing capacity
Tilt bed
Quickflip seating for crew versions to seat 2, 3 or 4 persons
EPS on the Deluxe models

All 2018 Honda Pioneer models will be available in August 2017.

Learn more: Powersports.honda.com

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

Cub Cadet Recalls UTVs Due to Brake System Issue

Posted on July 18, 2017 by Marc Cesare

2016 Cub Cadet Challenger CX500 and CX700 models are being recalled.

The 2016 Cub Cadet Challenger CX750 is part of the recall as well.

Cub Cadet recently announced the recall of approximately 4,000 2016 Cub Cadet Challenger CX500, CX700 and CX750 Crew utility vehicles. Air in the brake system can cause brake failure and pose a crash hazard to drivers or bystanders. Cub Cadet has received 80 reports of brake failures but no reports of injuries. Consumers should immediately stop using the vehicles and contact their Cub Cadet dealer for a free repair.

While not a large recall in relation to typical UTV recalls, this recall is large for a smaller volume brand such as Cub Cadet. In addition, these vehicles are part of their newest Challenger line which the company has used to revive their utility vehicle product offerings.

The following is information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Name of product: Cub Cadet 2016 Challenger utility vehicles

Hazard: Air in the brake system can cause brake failure, posing a crash hazard to the user or bystander.

Remedy: Repair

Recall date: July 6, 2017

Recall number: 17-753

Recall Details

Description: This recall involves four-wheel drive Cub Cadet 2016 Challenger utility vehicles. Model numbers included in the recall are: CX500 (37AW7CKD010, 37AW7CKD710, 37AW7CLD010, 37AW7CLD710, 37AW7CMD710, 37AW7CND710); CX700 (37AX7CKD010, 37AX7CKD710, 37AX7CLD010, 37AX7CLD710, 37AX7CMD710, 37AX7CND710); and CX750 Crew (37AY8CKD710, 37AY8CLD710, 37AY8CMD710, 37AY8CND710). The utility vehicles were sold in yellow, red, blue and camouflage. The recalled vehicles were manufactured between March 2016 through November 2016. A label located under the driver’s seat lists the model number and the month and year of manufacture.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact an authorized Cub Cadet dealer or Cub Cadet customer service to arrange for a free repair.

Incidents/Injuries: Cub Cadet has received 80 reports of brake failure. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At: Independent Cub Cadet dealers nationwide from March 2016 through May 2017 for between $8,500 to $9,500.

Manufacturer(s): Hisun Motors Corp. U.S.A., of McKinney, Texas

Manufactured In: China

Units: About 4,000

Learn more: CPSC.gov

Kawasaki Recalls UTVs Due to Fire Hazard

Posted on July 18, 2017 by Marc Cesare

This 2017 Kawasaki Mule SX is part of the recall.

2017 Kawasaki Teryx models are affected as well.

In June, Kawasaki announced the recall of approximately 6,600 UTVs and ATVs due to the potential for the fuel gauge retainer to collapse, leak fuel and pose a fire hazard. The recall involves model year 2017 Teryx and Mule models. Consumers should immediately stop using the vehicles and contact Kawasaki for a free repair. No injuries have been reported related to this recall.

The following information is from the Consumer Products Safety Commission.

Name of product: Utility vehicles, recreational off-highway vehicles and all-terrain vehicles

Hazard: The fuel gauge retainer can collapse and leak fuel, posing a fire hazard.

Remedy: Repair

Recall date: June 20, 2017

Recall number:17-751

Recall Details

Description:
This recall involves 2017 Mule™ utility vehicles, Teryx® and Teryx4™ recreational off-highway vicles, and Brute Force® 750 all-t The 2017 Mule utility vehicle is a four-wheel off-highway vehicle with side by side seating for two to six people and automotive style controls. The model name is printed on the right and left front fender. For the Mule SX series and the Mule 4000 series, the vehicle identification number (VIN) is located under the seat. For the Pro models, the VIN is located on the steel frame between the right front lower A-arm mounts. The 2017 Teryx recreational off-highway vehicle is a four-wheel off-highway vehicle with seating for two or four people and automotive style controls. The model name is printed on the right and left front fender. The VIN is located on the steel frame between the right front lower A-arm mounts.The 2017 Brute Force 750 4x4i all-terrain vehicle is a four-wheel off-highway vehicle with seating for one person. The model name is printed on the right and left front fender. The VIN is located on the steel frame between the left front lower A-arm mounts. The vehicles were sold in various colors.

2017 Teryx Models: Teryx, Teryx LE, Teryx Camo, Teryx4, Teryx4 LE, teryx4 Camo

VIN Range: JKBRFCH17HB501204 – JKBRTCG10HB507422

2017 Mule Models: MULE SX, MULE SX 4×4 XC, MULE SX 4×4 XC Camo, MULE SX 4×4 XC SE, MULE SX 4×4 SE, MULE 4010 4X4, MULE 4000, MULE 4010 Trans4x4, MULE 4010 Trans4x4 Camo, MULE 4010 4×4 SE, MULE 4010 Trans4x4 SE, MULE PRO-FXT, MULE PRO-FXT EPS, MULE PRO-FXT EPS LE, MULE PRO-FXT EPS Camo, MULE PRO-FX, MULE PRO-FX ESP, MULE PRO-FX ESP LE, MULE PRO-FX ESP Camo, MULE PRO-FXT Ranch Edition, MULE PRO-FX Ranch Edition, MULE PRO-DXT, MULE PRO-DXT EPS, MULE PRO-DXT EPS LE, MULE PRO-DX, MULE PRO-DX EPS

VIN Range: JKBAFSL19HB500313 – JK1AFCR14HB531308

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact Kawasaki for a free repair. The firm is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Kawasaki dealers nationwide from March 2017 through April 2017 for between $8,000 and $15,000.

Distributor(s): Kawasaki Motors Corp. U.S.A., of Foothill Ranch, Calif.

Manufactured In: U.S.

Units: About 6,600

Learn more: CPSC.gov

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

Taylor-Dunn Introduces G-100 Gas-Powered UTV

Posted on June 1, 2017 by Marc Cesare

The new Taylor-Dunn G-100 is the first new vehicle in the product line since being acquired by Polaris.

Taylor-Dunn announced the launch of the new G-100 gas-powered off-road utility vehicle co-produced with Polaris. Polaris acquired Taylor-Dunn last year. The G-100 is powered by a Polaris Pro-Star 32 hp engine with electronic fuel injection. The G-100 also features a MacPherson Strut front suspension, dual a-arm independent rear suspension, 9″/10″ of front/rear suspension travel, roof, windshield and four-wheel hydraulic brakes. The G-100 has a 1,000 lb. payload and a 1,500 lb. towing capacity.

The G-100 is basically the Ranger 500 with a 2WD rather than 2WD/4WD drive system, as well as different colored bodywork, slightly different front and a roof and windshield as standard equipment. The following are the specs that the G-100 and the Ranger 500 have in common.

32 hp Pro-Star engine
ROPS
1,000 lb payload capacity
1,500 lb towing capacity
500 lb cargo box capacity
Same suspension and front/rear suspension travel
Hydraulic disc brakes
Same dimensions
Same digital instrumentation
Lock & Ride accessory compatible

The Ranger 500 has 25″ tires compared to 24″ for the G-100 and comes with LED headlights. Learn more: Taylor-Dunn

This addition to the Taylor-Dunn line makes a lot of sense in terms of using the same distribution channel to meet customer needs. Many of the customers that would buy the typical Taylor-Dunn vehicles have a diverse fleet of utility vehicles including those with off-road capabilities. For example, a company campus may have a need for burden carriers inside factories, and utility vehicles for outside landscaping, or a sports stadium could have similar needs. I do know a Polaris GEM dealer that once told me he wish he could sell Rangers as he had demand from his customers for off-road UTVs, but he wasn’t a Ranger dealer so he couldn’t sell them.

This does raise the question of how far Polaris can pursue this strategy with Taylor-Dunn. The G-100/Ranger 500 is essentially the bottom of the product line. Will they be rebranding the more capable Ranger models. There is the possibility of creating conflict with some existing Ranger dealers. On the other hand, there is probably not too much customer overlap between Taylor-Dunn and Ranger customers at this point, and many Ranger dealers are more consumer oriented.

If Taylor-Dunn dealers are successful selling the new G-100 UTV it will validate to a certain extent the Polaris approach of developing a portfolio of small, task-oriented vehicles. Particularly for commercial customers like corporations, parks, universities and the like, the ability to satisfy a wide range of their fleet needs through one dealer should be an advantage in the market. The dealer’s selling efficiency should improve with more opportunities for one-stop selling. Textron is the other vehicle manufacturer that is taking this portfolio approach.

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

American LandMaster Announces New HQ & Manufacturing Facility

Posted on May 2, 2017 by Marc Cesare

American LandMaster LandStar LS670 utility vehicle

The LandStar LS670 from American LandMaster.

Utility vehicle manufacturer American LandMaster announced a new facility in Columbia City, IN that will become the company’s headquarters and consolidate manufacturing operations. The new facility will cost $4 million to lease and equip. Manufacturing operations from Roseland, LA and nearby Fort Wayne, IN will be moved to the new location. Nearly 70 jobs are expected to be created and production at the facility is scheduled to begin in September. The company can qualify for up to $420,00 in tax credits and another $70,000 in training grants from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, based upon reaching certain employment targets. County officials are considering additional incentives.

The investment is another sign of the increasingly competitive utility vehicle market. A number of manufacturers across varied market segments have increased their investments in the market, while at the same time growth in the UTV market has moderated. Companies have introduced new product lines and, similar to American LandMaster expanded or developed new manufacturing facilities. Last April American Sportsworks announced the rebranding of the company as American LandMaster, as well as, a newly re-engineered vehicle lineup. According to management, the new facility will allow for greater efficiency, better customer service and product line expansion, while continuing to manufacture American made products. Learn more: Businessfacilities.com

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

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Information on the small, task-oriented vehicle market

Category Archives: side-by-side

Polaris Announces 2018 UTVs

Honda Introduces 2018 Pioneer UTVs

Yamaha Adds New Viking UTVs to Lineup for 2018

Kawasaki Announces 2018 UTVs

Cub Cadet Recalls UTVs Due to Brake System Issue

Kawasaki Recalls UTVs Due to Fire Hazard

Can Am Introduces 2018 Side-by-Sides

Taylor-Dunn Introduces G-100 Gas-Powered UTV

Hustler Turf Enters UTV Market with LEVELIFT™ Bed Technology

American LandMaster Announces New HQ & Manufacturing Facility