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.
Only the Limited Edition model will be sold in New Zealand. Production is now underway in the USA.
Says Polaris, "The ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility is found in the RZR family.
"The RZR XP 4 900 is the most-capable, highest-powered, multi-passenger side-by-side with the longest wheelbase making it the ultimate performance vehicle in the market place."
It has many of the features of the RZR XP 900 launched last January: 88hp ProStar 900 twin engine, 3-link trailing arm independent rear suspension (IRS) with 31.8cm ground clearance and 35.6cm travel, on-demand true AWD and low center of gravity; and a 271.8cm wheelbase.
"Polaris continues... developing highly sought-after vehicles that offer the ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility," says Peter Harvey, country manager – Polaris Australia and New Zealand.
"With the instant success of the RZR XP 900 and the popularity of multi-passenger vehicles throughout the industry, it was a natural progression to develop an extreme-performing vehicle that four can enjoy."
The 88hp ProStar 900 Twin EFI engine was built specifically for extreme performance and first installed in the RZR XP 900. The engine has dual overhead cams (DOHC), four big valves per cylinder and dual throttle bodies located close to the intake valves for fast throttle response and acceleration.
To handle this much power and still keep the ride smooth, the RZR XP 4 900 features a 3-Link trailing arm IRS.
The 3-link design consists of two extra-long radius rods and a far forward-connecting trailing arm – strong yet light.
And, for the first time on a side-by-side, the RZR XP 4 900 will have 6.4cm-body Walker Evans rear shocks, the largest stock shocks on the market. These deliver higher damping forces and avoid shock fade compared to a 2-inch body shock, thanks to a 35% larger piston area that reduces internal pressure and heat generation. The shock also contains 35% more oil to slow the rate of heat buildup.
Centre of gravity is low. The engine-behind-the-seat design and the placement of key components make for even weight distribution.
To provide precise cornering, the suspension's radius rods extend deep into the wheel hubs and feature an uneven link geometry that optimises camber. This allows the tyres to lean into the corner through the suspension travel, and plant more surface on the ground for maximum control.
Tel. 0800 440 290
www.polarisindustries.co.nz
