Polaris unveils mid-size utility side-by-side
Polaris Off Road has unveiled the 2026 Ranger 500, an all-new mid-size utility side-by-side aimed at bringing the quality and reliability of the American brand into the value segment.
This places Polaris second in the off-road sector in New Zealand with a market share of 19.8%. The company says this was largely achieved by increasing sales of quads and side-x-sides by nearly 50% over the same period last year. In fact, in the side-x-side market Polaris says it has captured a booming 43% of all sales.
“This outstanding growth is driven in no small means by product development, not just for new models, but by variants specifically designed for NZ conditions,” says country manager Alan Collins.
“Models like the 2015 Ranger 570 HD and the 1000 Diesel HD have had a significant impact, with features such as engine braking, 4-wheel descent control and electronic power steering.”
He says that with safety always a major consideration, the company leads the way with 15 models offering ROPS protection, seat belt interlocks and speed key systems to limit top speeds.
“Polaris’ innovation is further [seen in] unique models such as the Sportsman ACE, the UTE 570 HD and the new flat-bed M1400,” Collins says.
He attributes the rise in sales to the service and after-sales support offered by the dealers nationwide.
