Presentation
This winter, I have the chance to try out the 2025 Ski-Doo Grand Touring LE equipped with the 900 ACE turbo R engine. Let’s say it’s a bit like the Cadillac of snowmobiles. All the available equipment is already installed on this machine with the Platinum package. With my Mission helmet from CKX and my snowmobile suit, I’m ready for this test.
Appreciation
First and foremost, this snowmobile is all about comfort. After finding the right suspension settings, adjusting the blade on the skis, connecting my phone to the 10.25-inch screen, I’m off on my adventure. The windshield is a good height and offers good wind protection. Handgrips, thumb strap and heated seat complete the comfort against the cold. I wasn’t sure about the convenience of the heated seat. But I can confirm that I was right on the money. I enjoyed its comfort all winter long. The 900 ACE Turbo R engine is not lacking in pick-up. With its 180 horsepower, the power is there and the controls respond instantly. The dashboard is easier than ever to navigate. When stationary, the screen is touch-sensitive. In motion, the button on the handle is simple, like turning the pages of a book, returning to the beginning automatically when we turn the last page. The glove compartment contains a heated pocket for safely storing and plugging in the phone.
Handling of the Grand Touring LE 2025
BRP has pulled off what I’d call a masterstroke. Handling this machine, alone or with a passenger, it’s as comfortable as ever. Adjustments are quick, and whether it’s the suspension or the steering, everything goes smoothly in both situations. In fact, I sometimes forget that this is a Grand Touring machine. It often feels more like a sportier snowmobile. In both situations, with or without a passenger, the quality of the snowmobile doesn’t deteriorate. The suspension always works well in either configuration, and the ride remains very versatile. What’s more, Pilot TX skis with depth-adjustable blades remain precise in all trail conditions. Depth is adjusted by turning the knob on top of the skate. It’s quick and easy.
The 137-inch by 15-inch by 1-1/4-inch Silent Track II track does a good job on the trails. The large rear trunk can hold a lot of luggage. As I said earlier, the windscreen makes for excellent wind protection, especially as small deflectors have been added to direct the air on either side. As for the running boards, the design works very well, since there’s no accumulation of ice or snow. The two large mirrors supplied with the Platinum set give a good view of what’s going on behind us. The side panels are easy to open and close, giving us good access to the mechanical assembly. The Grand Touring model features R.A.S., X front and rMotion X rear suspension with Air Control Suspension for a stable ride. Pilote TX skis guarantee precise handling on the trails. In terms of comfort, the Grand Touring 2025 is equipped with a heated two-seater seat, heated grips for driver and passenger, and an ultra-high windshield with mirrors for added protection against the wind. The model also includes a 16-gallon rear trunk for practical and efficient storage, a notable innovation this year. And the introduction of the RS X front suspension, inspired by Cross Country snowmobiles. This suspension offers enhanced cornering stability, precise steering over rough terrain, and first-rate absorption capacity with 279 mm of travel. This snowmobile is available with three choices of Rotax engines, the 900 ACE, 900 ACE turbo and 900 ACE turbo R.
I had a lot of fun on the trails in the Lower St. Lawrence region with the 2025 Ski-Doo Grand Touring LE. Fuel consumption is quite reasonable. It depends a lot on how well you can push the machine at moderate, rather leisurely speeds; it’s very, very economical. As soon as you push the machine a little harder, fuel consumption increases, but remains acceptable.
To conclude
In conclusion, I liked the comfort, power and lightness of the 2025 Ski-Doo Grand Touring LE with its 900 ACE Turbo R engine. The wind protection, suspension and ease of adjustment made for a pleasant test ride. I had a few problems with the BRP GO! application and the transfer to the snowmobile’s dial. I had to delete the application and reinstall it to partially correct the problem. With this manipulation, I could see the trail map, but I couldn’t set an itinerary. Definitely a minor bug, but one that got the better of my patience.
I’d like to thank BRP and Le Groupe Contant for the loan of this machine, which made this test possible.
Gear used during this test:
- CKX snowmobile suit
- CKX Mission helmet
- Cardo Edge communication system
