For this ranking, we will disregard the very high-performance UTVs such as the Can-Am Maverick R, the Kawasaki Theryx5 H2, and the Polaris RZR Pro S and Pro R. Not because they aren’t exciting vehicles, but because they would inevitably occupy the top three spots on the podium. Since these exceptional vehicles are not on the shopping list of the vast majority of buyers, we have decided not to consider them.
5th place: CFMOTO ZFORCE Z10
Few people in Canada have driven CFMOTO’s ZFORCE Z10. We had the opportunity to do so, and based on our initial findings, the vehicle shows great promise and seems to deliver on its promises.
But this model is an important milestone in the manufacturer’s journey. First of all, the ZFORCE Z10 has an aggressive body line that is unmistakable in its intended use: performance. The large wheel wells in the fenders are necessary to allow the long-travel suspension (20 inches in the rear) to work. The suspension also features FOX QSE gas shocks that can be adjusted using controls on the steering wheel. CFMOTO also offers a brand-new engine, a 998 cc three-cylinder turbocharged engine that develops 143 hp.
Innovation is not left out inside the vehicle. The quality of the materials is evident and demonstrates CFMOTO’s commitment to manufacturing quality. The dashboard layout is innovative: first, the driver has a slim, elongated LCD screen in front of them that provides all the usual driving information. In addition, a 12.3-inch color touchscreen LCD display in the center is used for navigation, vehicle settings adjustment, rearview camera, and Carplay connectivity.
4th place: Honda Talon 1000
The Honda Talon 1000 perfectly illustrates Honda’s mechanical expertise. Its 999cc twin-cylinder engine, derived from the Honda Africa Twin adventure motorcycle range, has been specifically calibrated for high-performance ATV use. It offers lively, linear power, ideal for enthusiasts of fast trails and rough terrain. The six-speed DCT transmission is a major asset: it combines the precision of a manual transmission with the simplicity of an automatic, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.
You have to drive the Talon on the trail to understand that this vehicle is not just about numbers: the mechanics work in perfect harmony and inspire confidence in the driver. The long-travel independent suspension with Showa shock absorbers effectively absorbs shocks while ensuring remarkable stability. The cockpit ergonomics are well designed, although protection from the elements could be improved. All in all, the Talon 1000 stands out for its legendary reliability, balanced sporty handling, and robust design, typical of the Japanese brand. It’s a shame that the X version is only available in the US.
3rd place: Kawasaki Theryx KRX
The Teryx KRX is the performance UTV that Kawasaki introduced a few years ago, in two- and four-passenger versions. There is also a Lifted version designed for mudding.
The Teryx KRX is an imposing vehicle powered by a 999 cc parallel twin engine that develops approximately 116 hp and 77 lb-ft of torque, which is in the upper mid-range for non-turbo engines. Its well-calibrated suspension allows you to drive the machine with confidence. It also absorbs bumps and jolts flawlessly, keeping you comfortable at all times. The KRX’s weak point is its interior, which features a lot of black plastic that is starting to look dated. Some competitors, including Polaris, Yamaha, and CFMOTO, have begun offering more refined interiors.
2nd place: Polaris RZR Pro XP
Not so long ago, the RZR Pro XP was the pinnacle of Polaris technology. Although the RZR Pro S and RZR Pro R have since taken its crown, the Pro XP is still a big player. Its Prostar turbo engine produces 181 HP, transmitted to the ground through a CVT transmission and Xtreme Performance four-wheel drive. All versions feature effective suspension with a very long 22-inch travel and sturdy Walker Evans gas shocks. The Ultimate version takes it a step further with Dynamix 2.0 semi-active suspension, which takes dynamic handling to another level by controlling wheel movement in real time.
Inside, the layout is similar to that of a car, with bucket seats, steering wheel controls, and a 7-inch color LCD touchscreen that provides the driver with a wealth of information (rearview camera, Dynamix suspension behavior, Ride Command navigation system, and Forsgate 4.0 radio).
1st place: Can-Am Maverick X3
The Can-Am Maverick X3 offers a wide range of models to meet the needs of even the most demanding users, with an equally wide price range. First, you can choose between a width of 64 inches or 72 inches in almost all versions. In addition, the 900cc three-cylinder engine is turbocharged and can deliver 135 hp or 200 hp depending on the version. At 200 hp, needless to say, the vehicle is very fast and the power reserve seems endless. The suspension comes standard with SHOWA HPG piggyback 2.5 gas shock absorbers and excellent 20-inch wheel travel. It is obviously calibrated for performance and controls the dynamics of the PTV beautifully. However, it is stiffer at low speeds. Like Polaris, Can-Am offers an active suspension called Smart-Shox that continuously controls wheel movement and adjusts rebound based on the settings selected by the driver.
The interior layout is a step down from the Polaris RZR Pro XP, as there is a lot of black plastic, not to mention the door latches, which are operated with a simple nylon strap. This seems primitive on a vehicle of this caliber. On the other hand, the layout of the controls is impeccable and they are easy to operate. This year, Can-Am offers a 12.5-inch touchscreen that sits prominently in the center of the dashboard.
Finally, the Maverick X3 offers versions equipped for specific environments. The X Mr is equipped to romp through the mud with its huge 30-inch ITP Cryptid tires, snorkels to supply air to the transmission and engine, a 4,500-lb winch, and bumpers. The X RC version is designed to crawl over rocky surfaces like those found in Moab, Montana. To do this, the differentials and transmission are specially calibrated for this demanding environment. In short, there’s an X3 to meet the needs of everyone looking for performance.
