Ski-Doo has always aimed to dominate all segments of the snowmobile market, and the entry-level segment is no exception. This segment appeals both to those wishing to learn the sport without investing a fortune, and to young beginners for whom a machine of more modest performance can represent a major advantage in terms of safety.
For 2026, one model in particular attracts our attention in this category: the NEO and NEO+, which now benefit from the all-new GEN5 chassis. This upgrade promises to bring significant improvements in handling, comfort and modernity to these entry-level machines.
Chassis GEN5!
The NEO+, which will be of great interest for the 2025-2026 season, now features the new GEN5 chassis, with all its familiar conveniences.
Although this snowmobile is classified in the entry-level category, BRP engineers have left nothing to chance in terms of finish and equipment for their little racers.
One of the biggest improvements of the new chassis is the much improved LED front lighting, which adds not only to the look, but above all to safety when driving at night or in low-visibility conditions. There’s also a 4.5-inch digital display, which provides all the essential information you need on the trail: speed, engine rpm, fuel level, and more.
Keen observers will note that there are few aesthetic differences with the MXZ Sport version. The latter features a longer tunnel, allowing installation of a 129 or 137-inch track, while the NEO+ retains a shorter 120-inch track.
In terms of traction, the NEO version is equipped with a Cobra track measuring 120 inches by 14 inches, with 1-inch studs. Our test model, the NEO+, benefits from a 120“ x 15” track, with 1.25” studs for improved traction on the trail.
As we’ve mentioned many times, although the NEO+ is aimed at beginners, its safety features are no less important. One of the best braking systems in the industry is the high-performance Brembo system.
600 CC EFI engine
The engine used in the NEO is much the same as that of the MXZ Sport model. However, in order to adapt performance to the intended needs, the ignition advance has been modified to reduce initial power from 85 hp to 55 hp for the NEO+ version, and to 40 hp for the standard NEO version.
In both cases, the liquid-cooled Rotax 600 cc engine is fed by an electronic fuel injection (EFI) system. To transmit power to the track, Ski-Doo uses the same pDrive primary clutch found on larger-displacement models, while a lighter version of the QRS system is used for the secondary pulley. This combination ensures rapid response, proven reliability and a ride that’s equally suited to novices and those looking for a no-compromise entry-level machine.
Suspension
Suspension has not been neglected on the NEO+ either. Up front is the excellent RAS-X suspension, tried and tested over the seasons on other models in the range. It’s equipped with KYB 36 shock absorbers offering 6.9 inches of total travel, ensuring good control and stability on the trail.
At the rear, the NEO+ is equipped with a special suspension called “NEO”. This uses a torsion spring for the central shock absorber, combined with a motion-controlled shock absorber at the rear, to provide a total travel of 8.3 inches.
Steering is provided by Pilot 5.7 skis, which have long been standard on trail snowmobiles, renowned for their precision and ease of tracking even in the most arduous conditions.
NEO+ equipment
To make sure you don’t miss a thing when it comes to equipment, both NEO and NEO+ versions come standard with an electric starter and the RER electronic reverse system, making maneuvering much easier. What’s more, to enhance the high-end look of our test model, the NEO+, transparent handguards have been added, offering both style and protection.
Our test
As it does every year, 4 Riders Magazine makes a point of testing all snowmobile categories, paying particular attention to new models. For 2026, we made sure to test the NEO+ version. In our evaluations, we always consider the manufacturer’s target clientele in order to offer a fair and representative assessment.
Although classified as an entry-level snowmobile, the NEO+ has nothing to envy its larger siblings, both in terms of equipment and powertrain. Of course, the 55-hp EFI 600 version is less powerful than the full-power EFI 600. However, it’s still an engine that’s perfectly suited to providing pleasure, while enabling top speeds to be reached above the limit permitted in Quebec.
The front suspension is highly efficient. All the quality of KYB 36 shock absorbers is on display, offering reassuring stability and remarkable comfort on the trail.
At the rear, suspension is a little more limited. Admittedly, our test weight – over 200 lbs – represents a challenge for a vehicle of this size. That said, we’re convinced that a rider with a weight more representative of the target clientele (around 100 to 120 pounds) will enjoy very satisfactory handling, even in bumpy trail conditions.
However, we did notice one small drawback: a certain amount of swaying can be observed when the trails are icy or very hard, especially early in the morning. For a novice rider, this could be a considerable difficulty. Fortunately, several patches are already available on the market to improve this handling, but it would be desirable for BRP to address this point directly at the factory in the future.
Despite this detail, our verdict is unanimous: the NEO+ is an excellent entry-level snowmobile, well-equipped, safe, affordable, and with a look worthy of the biggest machines currently on the market.
