With the XPEDITION, Polaris is tapping into a niche that’s still largely untapped in the side-by-side world: that of adventure and overlanding vehicles. Designed to venture far from starting points and spend several days in the backcountry, it prioritizes range, cargo capacity, comfort, and versatility. The XPEDITION stands out above all for its sophisticated, air-conditioned cabin, its numerous customization oPolaris XPEDITION XP 100ptions, and its clear focus on exploration. In short, it’s a sort of “SxS Jeep,” designed to go far, stay out long, and do so with almost no compromises—a vehicle that has no equivalent on the market. (Editor’s note: The CFMOTO X10 had not yet been unveiled at the time this article was written.)
This vehicle, with its unique qualities and a very appreciable level of comfort for passengers, won me over, and we decided to trade in our RZR XP1000 for a 2026 Polaris XPEDITION XP1000 Northstar. I tested the 2026 Polaris XPEDITION XP 1000 NorthStar on forest trails, winding roads, rocky sections, water crossings, and fast-paced stretches.
After covering more than 500 km in a wide variety of conditions, I can finally offer an opinion based on actual use of this machine, rather than just a first impression.
Here is my full review.
Driving
The Polaris XPEDITION is a very enjoyable machine to drive.
During my test drive, I drove on various types of terrain, including forest trails, winding roads, rocky sections, water crossings, and high-speed driving on major roads. In all these situations, the vehicle proved to be very stable and quickly inspired confidence. The Sport mode completely transforms its character. Acceleration becomes much more responsive and provides a true sporty driving experience.
In AWD mode, traction is remarkable. I hardly ever felt the need to engage 4×4 mode, such is the effectiveness of the traction.
The turning radius is also excellent and makes maneuvering much easier, even in tighter spaces.
The 15-inch wheels combined with the 30-inch tires are, in my opinion, an excellent choice. They offer a nice balance between comfort, stability, and ground clearance.
First observation: tire pressure changes everything
At the start of my test drive, the tires were inflated to about 22 psi. At that point, I found the suspension to be rather firm.
After lowering the pressure to 12 psi, the difference was dramatic. The vehicle became much more comfortable, absorbed road imperfections much better, and offered a significantly more pleasant ride on long trips.
In my opinion, this adjustment had the greatest impact on my overall impression of the vehicle.
Comfort and Interior Layout
Comfort is undoubtedly this machine’s greatest strength. The seats are extremely comfortable and resemble those of the RZR XP 1000.
The interior space is generous, offering plenty of room for legs, shoulders, and head. My husband, who is 6 feet 2 inchestall, was perfectly comfortable.
I would, however, suggest one small improvement: the interior handle used to open the door would be more ergonomic if positioned slightly higher. Even the three-point seatbelt is comfortable. Once properly adjusted, you quickly forget you’re wearing it.
I also invited an 80-year-old man to hop on board. His comment perfectly sums up the XPEDITION’s comfort:
“I wasn’t getting tossed from side to side like in my ATV. It’s really stable and comfortable.”
He even asked me to come back and go on another ride with him.
As for the windshield washer button, I would have preferred it to be mounted a little higher on the dashboard because I find it positioned too low while we’re driving.
As for the footrests in the back of the Side-by-Side, I find that they’re positioned so far forward that it’s hard for me to put my foot on them.
Finally, I think the small storage tray beneath the main glove compartment could use a bit more attention to detail.
Visibility
Visibility is excellent. The windshield offers a wide field of view, and the A-pillars interfere very little with driving, unlike in many other vehicles in this class.
Rear visibility is just as good.
Steering
The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel is a pleasant surprise. It allows you to quickly find the ideal driving position and provides a feel more reminiscent of a car than a traditional side-by-side.
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is one of the main advantages of the NorthStar version.
Even on the hottest days, it proved very effective. Yes, it does result in a slight increase in fuel consumption, but the comfort it provides more than makes up for this drawback.
Cabin Water Resistance
The enclosed cabin is generally quite watertight. We drove through several puddles, and very little water seeped into the cabin. However, I did notice a slight leak near the footwell. In my opinion, a few additional weatherstrips would easily fix this minor issue.
I also tried riding with the front window slightly open, but the dust on the trails quickly convinced me to keep it completely closed.
Bluetooth, Ride and Command, and Audio System
The Bluetooth system connected quickly and without any issues.
The sound quality is good, but I would have appreciated more power. In my opinion, adding rear speakers would significantly improve the experience.
The screen for Polaris’s Ride and Command system is prominently displayed in the center of the dashboard. This system allows you to manage GPS navigation and Group Ride (viewing other ride members on the map), communications (Bluetooth), the JBL audio system, the rearview camera, the instrument cluster, and certain cabin functions.
Interior Cabin Storage
Interior storage is probably the main drawback. The glove compartment is a bit small, although it does have a USB port. I also would have liked to see more storage space on the driver’s side.
The center console, however, includes a 12-volt outlet and two USB ports. The space available on the ceiling would also make it easy to install a storage net.
Transmission and Controls
The gearshift lever requires a bit of effort, and shifting between gears could be smoother.
In my opinion, an electronic control or a push-button selector would be more befitting of a vehicle in this class.
Rear Bed
The bed offers good cargo capacity. However, tilting it requires some effort.
In this category, competitors offer a power-assist system or electric tilt, and that would have been a welcome feature on the XPEDITON.
Features I’d Like to See as Standard
The XPEDITON is the utility vehicle that comes closest to a small off-road Jeep. As a result, this raises expectations, and we would have liked to see the following features included as standard:
- Turn signals;
- A horn;
- Sun visors;
- More storage space;
- A more powerful audio system;
- Rear speakers.
For a vehicle in this category, these features should be included right from the start.
Minor Mechanical Issues Observed
During my last test drive, I noticed oil near the rear brake system.
After doing some research, I found that some owners have reported a known issue with the crankshaft seal. The alternator pulley may be rubbing against this seal and causing an oil leak. The vehicle will therefore be returned to the dealership to be inspected and repaired under warranty.
I also noticed that the brake pedal has a very long travel. An adjustment to the braking system will likely be necessary.
Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption is slightly higher than that of some other side-by-sides, mainly due to the continuous operation of the air conditioning.
Personally, I consider this trade-off well worth it.
Who Is This Vehicle For?
The Polaris XPEDITION XP 1000 NorthStar is particularly well-suited for people who want to:
- Travel long distances;
- Travel in exceptional comfort;
- Enjoy air conditioning;
- Have plenty of space for two passengers;
- Maintain a sporty driving experience thanks to Sport mode.
Our Verdict
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
The 2026 Polaris XPEDITION XP 1000 NorthStar truly impressed me. Its comfort is exceptional, and its stability on the trail inspires confidence.
Visibility is excellent. The air conditioning performs very well. The interior space is remarkable, even for tall people.
The build quality and the sturdiness of the components used suggest excellent durability. Let’s hope that the issues repaired under warranty remain isolated incidents.
However, a few improvements would be welcome, particularly regarding interior storage, certain controls, the braking system, and some features that should come standard. For anyone who wants to keep dust out, I recommend inspecting and applying silicone sealant in a few spots. As for the noise behind the seats, Polaris still has some work to do; they should install sound-deadening materials in the cabin.
Despite these few reservations, the Polaris XPEDITION XP 1000 NorthStar 2026 remains, in my opinion, one of the best side-by-side vehicles currently on the market for off-road enthusiasts who are looking above all for comfort, reliability, durability, and driving pleasure.
