For this ranking, we will set aside the ultra-high-performance UTVs, namely the Can-Am Maverick R, Kawasaki Teryx5 H2, and Polaris RZR PRO S, PRO R and PRO R Boost. Not because they are not exciting vehicles, but because they would inevitably occupy the top three spots on the podium. Since these exceptional machines are not part of the purchase plans of the vast majority of buyers, we decided not to include them.
5th place: CFMOTO ZFORCE Z10
But this model represents an important milestone in the manufacturer’s evolution. First, the ZFORCE Z10 features aggressive bodywork that leaves no doubt about its intended purpose: performance. The large wheel openings in the fenders are necessary to allow the long-travel suspension to work (20 inches at the rear). The suspension is also equipped with FOX QSE gas shocks adjustable through steering-wheel controls. CFMOTO also introduces a new powerplant: a turbocharged 998 cc three-cylinder engine producing 143 HP.
Innovation is also evident inside the vehicle. The quality of the materials is obvious and demonstrates CFMOTO’s serious approach to build quality. The dashboard layout is innovative: first, the driver has a slim, elongated LCD display directly ahead that provides all the usual driving information. In addition, a 12.3-inch colour LCD touchscreen in the centre handles navigation, vehicle settings, the rear-view camera and CarPlay connectivity.
4th place: Honda Talon X 1000
The Honda Talon 1000 perfectly illustrates Honda’s mechanical expertise. Its 999 cc twin-cylinder engine, derived from the Honda Africa Twin adventure motorcycle lineup, has been specifically calibrated for performance UTV use. It delivers 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 gearbox 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 about more than numbers: the mechanical components work in perfect harmony and inspire confidence in the driver. The long-travel independent suspension is equipped with FOX Live Valve 2.5 shocks, which automatically adjust compression damping for each wheel in real time. It absorbs impacts effectively while providing remarkable stability. Cockpit ergonomics are well executed, although protection from the elements could be improved. It is also worth noting that the Talon X is now offered in a four-passenger version. In short, the Talon X 1000 stands out for its legendary reliability, balanced sporting behaviour and robust design, typical of the Japanese brand.
3rd place: Kawasaki Teryx KRX
The Teryx KRX is the performance UTV Kawasaki introduced a few years ago, available in two-passenger and extended four-passenger versions. There is also a Lifted version designed for playing in the mud. The TR version, with a width of 64 inches, is now available and elperformance utvsPhoto 1 – grande tailleiminates the width constraint on trails.
The Teryx KRX is an imposing vehicle powered by a 999 cc parallel-twin engine producing approximately 116 HP and 77 lb-ft of torque, placing it toward the upper end of naturally aspirated engines. Its very well-calibrated suspension allows the machine to be driven with confidence. Bump and impact absorption is also beyond reproach and keeps occupants at a very respectable comfort level. The KRX’s weak point is its interior layout, which features a great deal of black plastic that is beginning to look dated. Some competitors, including Polaris, Yamaha and CFMOTO, have begun offering more refined cabins.
2nd place: Polaris RZR Pro XP
Not long ago, the RZR Pro XP represented the pinnacle of Polaris technology. Although the RZR Pro S and RZR Pro R have since taken the crown, the Pro XP remains a heavyweight contender. Its turbocharged ProStar engine produces 181 HP, delivered to the ground through a CVT and Xtreme Performance four-wheel drive. Across all versions, the effective suspension offers a massive 22 inches of travel and uses heavy-duty Walker Evans gas shocks. On the Ultimate version, Dynamix 2.0 semi-active suspension takes over and raises dynamic behaviour to another level by controlling wheel movement in real time.
Inside the cabin, the layout approaches that of an automobile: supportive seats, steering-wheel controls, and a 7-inch central colour LCD touchscreen that provides the driver with a wealth of information, including the rear-view camera, Dynamix suspension behaviour, Ride Command navigation system and Forsgate 4.0 audio system.
1st place: Can-Am Maverick X3
The Can-Am Maverick X3 offers a very broad range of versions capable of meeting the needs of the most demanding buyers, with an equally broad price range. First, you can choose a width of 64 or 72 inches in nearly every version. The 900 cc three-cylinder engine is also turbocharged and can produce either 135 HP or 200 HP depending on the version. At 200 HP, needless to say, the vehicle is extremely quick and the power reserve seems endless. The suspension comes standard with SHOWA HPG Piggyback 2.5 gas shocks and a very generous 20 inches of wheel travel. It is obviously calibrated for performance and controls the UTV’s dynamics extremely well. However, it is firmer at low speeds. Like Polaris, Can-Am offers an active suspension system called Smart-Shox, which continuously controls wheel movement and adjusts rebound according to the settings selected by the driver.
The cabin layout falls behind that of the Polaris RZR Pro XP, with a great deal of black plastic, not to mention door latches operated by a simple nylon strap. It feels primitive on a vehicle of this calibre. On the other hand, the control layout is impeccable and the controls are easy to operate. This year, Can-Am offers a 12.5-inch touchscreen prominently positioned in the centre of the dashboard.
Finally, the Maverick X3 offers versions equipped for specific environments. The X mr is set up for mud riding with huge 30-inch ITP Cryptid tires, snorkels supplying air to the transmission and engine, a 4,500-lb winch and bumpers. The X rc version is designed for crawling over rocky surfaces such as those found in Moab, Montana. To accomplish this, the differentials and transmission are specially calibrated for this demanding environment. In short, there is an X3 to meet the needs of virtually anyone looking for performance.
