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 of Defender ranked second in our comparison. It was also one of Can-Am’s most versatile models, thanks to the unmatched variety of configurations available. This year, the new Defender HD-11 arrives and takes over the Limited models with air-conditioned cabs. The “old” Defender is therefore refocusing on utility use. Nevertheless, the first Defender covers a very wide range of needs with its three engine options. These are the 650cc HD7 single-cylinder (42 hp), the 976cc HD9 V-twin (69 hp), and the 976cc HD-10 V-twin (82 hp). There are numerous model configurations: single cabs for three passengers, MAX cabs for six, with closed air-conditioned cabs, etc. You can also choose specialized editions, such as the extended PRO version, which offers a 6-foot-long cargo bed, unique in the industry, as well as a 6×6 version, also unique in VCCs. These are the only HD10s that can have an air-conditioned cabin.
The Defender’s capabilities are among the best in the industry, with a 1,000 lb. payload capacity in the bed 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 world of off-road vehicles, particularly the XP1000. The latter tackles all types of terrain with its 999 cc Prostar engine that develops 85 HP. With its 29-inch tires and 14 inches of ground clearance, this vehicle is capable of towing 2,500 lb. Several accessory packages are available to customize the vehicle to your needs. It can also be equipped with a NorthStar heated and air-conditioned cab to protect you from the elements.
3rd place: CFMOTO UFORCE U10 Pro
CFMOTO made a big impression last year with the introduction of the UFORCE U10 Pro, which is nothing like the UFORCE 1000 we knew. First of all, it features a new 998cc three-cylinder engine that develops a very respectable 88 hp and 69 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle can tow 2,500 lbs or carry 1,000 lbs in its bed. The cab is designed to accommodate three or six passengers in its XL version. Note the high quality of the materials used and the presence of an 8-inch LCD screen, which is unusual in this segment. CFMOTO also offers the Highland version, whose strong point is its enclosed, air-conditioned, and heated cab.
2nd place: Can-Am Defender HD11
The Can-Am Defender HD11 is a new model that appears to be an evolution of the HD10, but the transformation is more in-depth. The Defender offers a new three-cylinder engine, the Rotax ACE 999cc inline three-cylinder HD11, which delivers 95 hp and 70 lb-ft of torque. The model configurations are almost endless: single cabs for three passengers, MAX for six passengers, with enclosed air-conditioned cabs, etc. You can also get a specialized edition like the X MR designed for deep mud.
The Defender Limited and Lone Star versions are equipped with adjustable heating, ventilation, and air conditioning with a simple three-button system. Noise and vibration are reduced by the installation of a roof liner, rear wall insulation, and floor mats. The new 10.25-inch touchscreen is located in the center of the dashboard and adds a much-appreciated touch of refinement.
The Defender HD11 stands out in the industry for its exceptional performance, offering a 1,000 lb. payload capacity and 2,500 lb. towing capacity.
1st place: Polaris Ranger 1500 XL
This Polaris is virtually alone in its niche. The manufacturer has used technical solutions that give this vehicle extraordinary capabilities. First, the 1500 cc three-cylinder engine develops 100 hp, but more importantly, a solid 105 lb-ft of torque. Polaris has paired this engine with an industry-unique metal belt CVT transmission. This allows the Ranger 1500 XL to carry 1,500 lb in its bed (which is better than a full-size 1500 pickup truck) and 3,500 lb of towing capacity. A beast!
The vehicle is available in two- or five-passenger versions with or without the NorthStar enclosed cab. In the latter case, the interior layout is similar to that of a production car. Features include air conditioning, power windows and tilt windshield, JBL audio system, heated seats, and a 7-inch central LCD screen with multiple functions (Ride Command, rearview camera, sound system).
