BRP is starting this new season with a slightly different vision than in the past. We had some good, frank discussions with several of their representatives, and the words on everyone’s lips were economy, rationalization, etc. They want to reduce prices as much as possible or keep them at the same level as in 2025-2026. Everyone is well aware that the cost of products has increased significantly in recent years, leading to a noticeable decline in enthusiasts.
To achieve this, prices on several products have been frozen, and, above all, a new 600 CC has been developed, which will certainly give many potential buyers pause for thought for the new season… For the 20th anniversary of the X-RS version, there are many emblems on the snowmobile that recall the competitive history of this model.
And to top it all off, there are integral racing valves on the KYB PRO-40 shock absorbers, adjustable for compression and rebound.
New engine, the 600RR!
This little 600 cc engine, although similar to the previous version, has undergone several improvements to make it more reliable, more environmentally friendly, more economical, and above all, a little more powerful. We’re talking about the famous Rotax 600 RR.
The heart of this machine is the renowned Rotax 600R E-TEC, but in the RR version. At first glance, it may seem very similar to the previous generation 600 E-TEC, but in reality, the improvements made are numerous and strategic. The two-stroke direct injection architecture has been retained, but the calibration, electronic management, and several internal components have been optimized. The result is a more reliable engine with cleaner emissions, lower fuel consumption and, above all, slightly higher performance. We’re talking 130 horsepower!
Additional fuel supply!
First, the engineers added two injectors directly to the intake connectors, commonly known as “throttle bodies,” to provide additional fuel when the engine needs it. This technology is found on the 850 E-TEC and also the 850 E-TEC Turbo, among others.
This injection strategy is primarily aimed at optimizing fuel supply at higher revs and during periods of high load demand. In practical terms, this allows the engine to more finely adjust the air/fuel mixture according to demand, improving throttle response, combustion stability, and mechanical protection during intensive use.
More powerful…
BRP did its homework and, instead of increasing the displacement, worked differently to add 5 more horsepower to reach the 130 horsepower mark. The maximum RPM was increased to 8250, combined with optimized combustion to achieve the goal. The calibrated pipe is also different in order to absorb the additional RPM and increase response by 20%. And we set ourselves the challenge of producing an exhaust that gives a more racing sound… And it’s very successful!
To optimize airflow through the intake manifolds, we thinned the central rod that holds the throttle valve. When fully open, airflow is easier!
New cylinder coating
Undoubtedly the major turning point in achieving a significant reduction in oil consumption, we have introduced a new plasma-optimized coating on the cylinder and piston, replacing the famous Nikasil, which has been used for years.
In concrete terms, the inner surface of the cylinder has a more porous microstructure. This porosity allows a thin film of oil to be retained between the cylinder and the piston. Instead of the lubricating film being quickly swept away, it remains against the cylinder for longer in a more uniform layer, even under heavy load or at high revs.
This improved oil retention offers several technical advantages:
- More consistent lubrication,
- Reduced internal friction,
- Less wear over time,
- Better thermal stability,
- Lower oil consumption,
Thanks to this optimization of lubrication, engineers were able to recalibrate the oil flow of the injection system. The result: a reduction in oil consumption of around 20%, without compromising mechanical protection.
ECO engine mapping mode!
The 600 RR version introduces an ECO mode, a feature well known in the world of four-stroke engines, but adapted here to the reality of a two-stroke engine.
The major difference is the way it affects engine behavior. In ECO mode, acceleration power is softened. The throttle response becomes more progressive and less lively, promoting smoother and more economical riding. Revs are less abrupt and acceleration is more linear, ideal for long rides or when you want to maximize range. 5% reduction in fuel consumption!
However, unlike systems found on four-stroke engines, where maximum power can be limited across the entire operating range, here the full potential remains accessible at all times. If you press the throttle all the way down, the engine still delivers its maximum power.
In summary:
- Smoother throttle response
- More progressive driving
- Optimized fuel consumption (5%)
- Full power is always available
- 20% reduction in oil consumption
It’s a smart approach: you retain the sporty character of the 600 RR when you want it, while offering a more economical option for days when you just want to rack up the miles.
Silent mode!
Are we back to the automotive world? Although it has been around for a few years in the automotive industry, the automatic stop-start concept for extended stops is making its debut at Ski-Doo for 2027. The new 600 RR comes with a “silent mode” system that is found throughout the automotive world today, meaning that when you use the brake to stop and hold it for more than two seconds, the engine shuts off and remains off until you release the brake lever. When the lever is released, the engine restarts instantly.
New oil: XPS MAX!
To ensure perfect lubrication with less oil, engineers have developed a new oil, XPS Max. With the concept of cylinder wall porosity, the oil remains longer between the piston and the cylinder to perform its essential protective role. This called for an oil that is more resistant to deterioration. Two important points were mentioned to us: this oil works very well in other Rotax two-stroke engines and will be priced the same as XPS oil, with no increase.
A little sound!
It should also be mentioned that this version, which is largely based on the race car used in snocross, uses an exhaust that offers a slightly more racing sound that is very pleasant to the ear, reminding us a little of the race tracks. Definitely very interesting for many snowmobile enthusiasts who like to have a little sound when riding on the trail.
Ultimately, this competition-style exhaust adds an emotional dimension to the whole experience. It’s not just a question of pure performance, but of feeling. For those who like a slightly sportier sound on the trail, you won’t be disappointed, and it’s not unpleasant in the long run.
Heated brake lever!
Another interesting new feature is the option to order your 600 RR with a heated brake lever. Yes, you heard right, a heated brake lever! It incorporates a heating element that keeps your fingers warm on the lever throughout your ride. We often think of heated grips and thumbs, but the brake lever remains an exposed area, especially when you constantly keep a finger on it during dynamic riding.
It may not be the most spectacular feature on the spec sheet, but for snowmobilers who regularly brave the cold, it’s the kind of detail that can quickly become… indispensable!
Our test drive
The 600RR performs extremely well over the few miles we covered at high altitude, because in West Yellowstone, we must remember that we are at an altitude of around 6,800 to 7,000 feet. Although the power drop is around 25 to 30 horsepower less, the calibrations were spot on and the engine still had good thrust for a 100 horsepower engine at this altitude.
We took the time to test both power modes. It was easy to feel the difference between the Eco and Standard mapping modes, with acceleration significantly reduced at mid-range compared to full power mode. This driving experience is very similar to what you find in the automotive world. Smoother, less aggressive, but maximum power is still available if desired.
Sometimes certain additions surprise us, and although we try every year to guess what companies will come up with, no one predicted the concept of automatically stopping the engine when the brake is held down. Well, Ski-Doo has done just that. On the 600 RR models only, the engine stops when the brake is held for more than two seconds and restarts automatically when the brake is released. Very effective, it makes it easier to have a quick chat during short stops!
The advantages of a small displacement engine are undoubtedly the fact that the RPM drops much less during acceleration, giving the impression that the engine is always ready to roar. BRP told us that they worked on the exhaust to give it a little more sound. It’s a success, because the engine’s song is music to the ears!
We had very mild temperatures for our tests this year, but we still tried out the heated brake, which is very effective. With our cold temperatures, this will be an option to consider for your future purchase.
After validation, this version will unfortunately not be available with the 10.25-inch screen. We really hope this decision will be reversed, but if not, let’s hope it will be available in 2028…
We are really excited to test this new engine at sea level at full power. We are convinced that it will put some 800 cc engines to shame, especially on winding trails.
