5th place: Can-Am Defender HD7, HD9 and HD10
The Can-Am Defender is a highly refined model that has been on the market for several years. Last year, the previous-generation Defender ranked second in our comparison. It was also one of Can-Am’s most versatile models, thanks to the unmatched variety of configurations in which it is offered. This year, the new Defender HD11 arrives and takes over the Limited trims with climate-controlled cabs. The “old” Defender therefore refocuses on utility use. Nevertheless, the original Defender covers a very broad range of needs with its three engine options: the 650 cc HD7 single-cylinder (42 HP), the 976 cc HD9 V-twin (69 HP), and the 976 cc HD10 V-twin (82 HP). Model configurations are numerous: three-passenger single cabs, six-passenger MAX versions, enclosed climate-controlled cabs, and more. You can also choose specialized editions such as the extended PRO version, which offers an industry-unique 6-foot-long cargo box, as well as a 6×6 version, also unique among UTVs. These are also the only HD10 models available with a climate-controlled cab.
The Defender’s capacities rank among the best in the industry, with a 1,000-lb cargo-box capacity and a 2,500-lb towing capacity for the HD10 engine (3,000 lb for the HD10 Pro 6×6).
4th place: Polaris Ranger XP 1000
The Polaris Ranger is a flagship model in the off-road vehicle world, particularly the XP 1000. It tackles all types of terrain with its 999 cc ProStar engine producing 85 HP. Riding on 29-inch tires with 14 inches of ground clearance, this vehicle can tow 2,500 lb. Several accessory packages are available to tailor the vehicle to your needs. It can also be equipped with a heated and air-conditioned NorthStar cab to protect you from the elements.
3rd place: CFMOTO UFORCE U10 Pro
CFMOTO made a strong impression last year with the introduction of the UFORCE U10 Pro, which has little in common with the UFORCE 1000 we previously knew. First, it introduces a new 998 cc three-cylinder engine producing a very respectable 88 HP and 69 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle can tow 2,500 lb or carry 1,000 lb in its cargo box. The cab is designed for three passengers, or six in the XL version. The quality of the materials deserves mention, as does the 8-inch LCD display, an unusual feature in this segment. CFMOTO also offers the Highland version, whose main attraction is its enclosed heated and air-conditioned cab.
2nd place: Can-Am Defender HD11
The Can-Am Defender HD11 is a new model that may look like an evolution of the HD10, but the transformation goes much deeper. The Defender introduces a new three-cylinder powerplant, the 999 cc Rotax ACE HD11 inline-three, producing 95 HP and 70 lb-ft of torque. Model configurations are almost endless: three-passenger single cabs, six-passenger MAX versions, enclosed climate-controlled cabs, and more. Specialized editions are also available, such as the X mr designed for deep mud.
Defender Limited and Lone Star versions are equipped with an adjustable heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system controlled by a simple three-button interface. Noise and vibration are reduced through the use of a roof liner, rear-wall insulation and floor mats. The new 10.25-inch touchscreen sits at the centre of the dashboard and adds a welcome touch of refinement.
The Defender HD11 stands out in the industry with exceptional capability, offering a 1,000-lb cargo-box capacity and a 2,500-lb towing capacity.
1st place: Polaris Ranger 1500 XL
This Polaris is practically alone in its segment. The manufacturer has used technical solutions that give this vehicle capabilities well beyond the ordinary. First, its 1,500 cc three-cylinder engine produces 100 HP, but more importantly, a stout 105 lb-ft of torque. Polaris pairs this engine with an industry-unique metal-belt CVT. This allows the Ranger 1500 XL to carry 1,500 lb in its cargo box (better than a full-size 1500 pickup truck) and tow up to 3,500 lb. A beast!
The vehicle is offered in two- or five-passenger versions, with or without the enclosed NorthStar cab. In the latter, the interior layout is close to that of a production automobile. Features include air conditioning, power windows and a tilting windshield, a JBL audio system, heated seats, and a 7-inch central LCD display with several functions, including Ride Command, a rear-view camera and audio controls.
