Can-Am has pulled the covers off its 2027 off-road lineup. This time around, there’s no complete revolution or all-new platform shaking up the market. Instead, the Valcourt-based manufacturer has focused on refining several well-established models—and in some cases, the changes are far from minor.
The Defender HD10 probably sees the biggest evolution, with a new three-cylinder engine and a more extensive redesign. The Maverick R gets the second-generation DCT across the entire lineup, while the Maverick Sport, Trail and Outlander families also receive their share of improvements.
Here’s what caught our attention.
A Fresh Start for the Defender HD10
Let’s begin with the Defender HD10, because this is probably where Can-Am has made its most significant changes for 2027.
Following the introduction of the Defender HD11 for 2026, the manufacturer is now bringing several of those advancements to the HD10. The most obvious change is under the hood: the previous powertrain makes way for a new 80-horsepower Rotax three-cylinder engine.
But Can-Am didn’t stop at the engine. The chassis and suspension have also been redesigned, and the manufacturer has announced improvements in both comfort and technology. This is therefore a fairly substantial evolution of the HD10 rather than a simple model-year update.
Inside the cab, a new 5-inch colour display makes its debut. Limited, X mr and Lonestar versions step up to a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with integrated BRP GO! navigation, AM/FM radio and various customization options. Vehicle software can even be updated remotely through Wi-Fi or a wireless hotspot.
For owners who rely on their Defender every day, particularly for work, the new HD10 will certainly be one of the 2027 models worth watching.
Defender XU: Built for Those Who Put Their Machine to Work
Still within the Defender family, a new model joins the lineup: the Defender XU.
The idea behind this version is fairly straightforward. Many owners purchase a Defender and then add a series of accessories to adapt it for work. With the XU, Can-Am installs several of those accessories directly at the factory.
These include a cage protector, low cargo box extension, LinQ tool holder and trailer hitch ball mount.
It may not be the most spectacular addition to the lineup, but for farmers, landowners or anyone who actually uses a side-by-side as a working tool, the concept makes plenty of sense.
Can-Am will offer the XU in several trim levels, ranging from the base version all the way to the Lonestar, with either an open or enclosed cab. Only the mud-focused X mr package is excluded.
Maverick R: Second-Generation DCT Across the Lineup
There’s no new engine or dramatic horsepower increase for the Maverick R this year. Instead, Can-Am has focused on how all that power gets to the ground.
For 2027, every Maverick R receives the second-generation Rotax dual-clutch transmission with an ultra-low gear range. Until now, this evolution of the DCT had been limited to the Maverick R X rc and Maverick R MAX.
The ultra-low range makes particular sense when tackling technical terrain at slower speeds. Can-Am also says components have been reinforced to better handle the additional torque.
It’s not necessarily the kind of change that jumps out when you first see the machine at a dealership, but out on the trail, it could prove much more significant.
Can-Am is also taking the opportunity to make a few refinements to the Maverick R and X3. The 2027 models receive integrated window nets and steel-braided brake lines.
On the X3, new door seals should improve cabin protection from the elements, while RS and DS versions now come with a full roof. New bushings are also used in the front suspension to help reduce squeaks and unwanted noise.
Nothing revolutionary here, but several small details that should improve the overall ownership and driving experience.
A Little More Edge for the Maverick Sport and Trail
The Maverick Sport and Maverick Trail continue into 2027 with an interesting new option: the X package.
It includes full doors, a roof and LED lighting. On the Maverick Sport, the package also adds upgraded suspension components.
For trail riders looking for a better-equipped machine with a slightly sportier edge—without necessarily stepping up to the most extreme models in the lineup—this new configuration should be worth a look.
An Outlander X mr MAX for 2027
There are fewer changes on the ATV side, but one addition should certainly attract attention in Canada: the Outlander X mr will now be available in a MAX version.
Can-Am is essentially combining the highly specialized, mud-focused nature of the X mr with its two-up MAX configuration.
It’s a logical addition to a lineup where MAX models already play an important role, and it now gives riders the opportunity to enjoy the X mr formula with a passenger.
More Equipment for the Outlander Pro
Can-Am is also applying a similar strategy to the Outlander Pro as it has with the Defender XU: installing at the factory some of the accessories many owners would likely add themselves.
For 2027, that includes handguards, fender extensions, floor protection and a trailer hitch.
On a utility-focused machine, these additions matter more than simply adding a few extra items to the spec sheet. They’re practical pieces of equipment for anyone who works with their ATV or regularly uses it on private property.
The 10.25-Inch Display Continues to Expand
Technology also continues to play a larger role in the ATV world.
High-output versions of the Outlander XT and Backcountry can now be equipped with the 10.25-inch touchscreen display.
The system includes GPS with offline maps, features designed for group rides and access to certain vehicle settings directly through the display.
We’re a long way from the days when ATV instrumentation was limited to speed, fuel level and a few warning lights. Large displays and integrated navigation are clearly becoming distinguishing features of premium models.
An Evolutionary Year for Can-Am
Looking at the lineup as a whole, 2027 appears to be primarily a year of consolidation and refinement for Can-Am.
The Defender HD10 stands out with much deeper changes, particularly the arrival of its 80-horsepower three-cylinder engine, revised chassis and updated onboard technology.
Elsewhere in the lineup, Can-Am is focusing more on the details. The second-generation DCT expands across the Maverick R family, the Defender XU arrives better prepared for work, the Maverick Sport and Trail gain the X package, and the Outlander X mr becomes available in a MAX configuration.
So, 2027 isn’t a model year where Can-Am is starting over with a blank sheet of paper. Instead, the manufacturer is refining a lineup that has already evolved considerably over the past few years.
And sometimes, it’s precisely those improvements that seem less spectacular on paper that become the most interesting once you get behind the wheel or on the handlebars.
