In this segment, few significant developments have marked the market this year.
5th place: Polaris Sportsman 500
This model will not impress anyone with mechanical innovation, but we want to recognize Polaris’ effort to offer an entry-level ATV at a reasonable price with an interesting level of equipment. The Sportsman 500 features a proven single-cylinder engine and CVT transmission, four-wheel independent suspension and optional power steering. However, buyers also get peace of mind and several years of trouble-free use with the manufacturer’s comprehensive two-year warranty and three-year powertrain warranty.
4th place: Can-Am Outlander 700
The Can-Am Outlander 500 and 700 are already entering their fifth year on the market. The large single-cylinder engine makes the old V-twins easy to forget. Ride comfort provided by the four-wheel independent suspension is very good, both on the single-seat model and the two-up MAX. In addition, the vehicle features substantial bodywork that does a good job of protecting occupants from mud splashes and mechanical heat. The work-oriented XU utility versions also round out the lineup very well. Thanks to its strong overall performance, this model even reaches somewhat into the large-displacement category.
3rd place: CFMOTO CFORCE C4, C5 and C6 PRO
With the new CFORCE C4, C5 and C6 PRO, CFMOTO brings a genuine breath of fresh air to a category where styling usually evolves in small steps. Their angular, sculpted bodywork, distinctive lighting signature and decidedly modern appearance give them an immediately recognizable personality. But this bold approach goes beyond styling: revised ergonomics, new GEN4 engines, the OmniDrive transmission and generous equipment all accompany the transformation.
The C4 and C5 rely on new 409 cc and 499 cc engines, the OmniDrive transmission, comfortable suspension and particularly generous standard equipment. The C6 PRO takes the formula much further with its new 647 cc single-cylinder engine producing 54 HP, a 24-litre fuel tank and a 6.2-inch LCD display with Apple CarPlay. Add winches, EPS and a five-year warranty: it is difficult to find this much equipment and technology at a comparable price.
2nd place: Polaris Sportsman 850
The Polaris Sportsman 850 is a truly well-sorted vehicle. Its mechanical harmony makes everything work like a symphony when you ride it. The 850 cc parallel-twin delivers 78 HP through a very well-calibrated transmission. Suspension comfort lives up to its reputation while maintaining solid, precise trail handling. Several equipment levels offered by Polaris increase the vehicle’s refinement and riding enjoyment. However, with Can-Am’s remarkable update to its big Outlander, Polaris will have its work cut out to keep pace.
1st place: Can-Am Outlander 1000 and 1000R
The large-displacement Outlanders have moved up another level with the G3 generation. The outgoing Outlander was already far from outdated, yet the new model raises the bar considerably higher. The arrival of the 6×6 models, with three engine options, further strengthens the lineup.
Right from the start, the engines are the most powerful in the segment, even breaking the 100-horsepower barrier to reach 101 HP. But all that power still has to be transferred effectively to the ground. The new, stiffer G3 frame anchors four-wheel independent double-A-arm suspension. For the first time on ATVs, Smart-Shox semi-active suspension is also available. There are also enclosed storage compartments integrated into the front and rear racks. In addition, the new engine-covering side panels completely shield the rider’s calves from engine heat, a weakness that affected the previous generation. In short, its superior overall performance, impeccable handling precision and high level of comfort allow it to rise to the top of this ranking.
