Introduction to the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is a robust and versatile Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) designed to meet the demanding needs of various outdoor activities, including agriculture, construction, and recreational off-road adventures. With a focus on durability, practicality, and performance, the Defender DPS HD5 is targeted towards individuals and businesses seeking a reliable and capable workhorse for tackling challenging terrains and heavy-duty tasks. This model year brings several notable updates, enhancing its appeal and cementing its position as a standout utility UTV for the year.

Constructed by BRP, the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is a part of the Can-Am family, renowned for its dedication to engineering rugged and dependable off-road vehicles. The UTV is tailored to provide exceptional performance and functionality, making it an ideal choice for users who require a reliable partner for their demanding outdoor endeavors. With a solid steel frame and a range of exterior guards and covers, the Defender DPS HD5 offers robust protection and durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of various challenging environments and work applications.

In addition to its rugged construction, the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 boasts a spacious cargo bed with integrated tie-down hooks, glove box, dash storage, cupholders, and optional accessories such as a gun scabbard and cab/bed divider. Its impressive cargo bed dimensions further underline its utility-focused design, offering a substantial capacity for hauling tools, equipment, and supplies with ease. With its versatility and robust features, the Defender DPS HD5 is a compelling choice for individuals and businesses seeking a dependable and capable utility UTV for various applications.

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Model Classification and Unique Features

The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is a well-positioned utility task vehicle (UTV) within the Can-Am lineup. As a 2018 model, it is designed and manufactured by BRP, the parent company, in Canada. This UTV falls under the generic type of Utility and was introduced in 2017. With a manufacturer recommended minimum age of 16, it caters to a wide range of users, from recreational to professional. The Defender DPS HD5 is specially crafted to handle tough terrains and heavy-duty tasks, making it an essential component of the Can-Am lineup.

What sets the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 apart from other UTVs in the same category are its robust driveline features and superior cargo capabilities. Equipped with a selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline type and standard differential lock located at the front, it offers exceptional off-road performance and maneuverability. Moreover, its cargo bed with integral tie-down hooks and a capacity of 600 lbs. / 272.2 kgs. ensures that it can handle heavy loads with ease, making it the go-to choice for demanding tasks. These distinctive characteristics make the Defender DPS HD5 a standout model in the Can-Am lineup, appealing to users who require both power and utility in their UTV.

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Price and Value of the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 comes with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $11,399. This pricing is for the standard edition, and variations based on different configurations or editions may have different price points. The MSRP of the Defender DPS HD5 positions it as a competitive option within the UTV market, offering a blend of capability and value for its price point.

ModelPrice
Can-Am Defender DPS HD5$11,399

Engine Specifications and Performance

The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a robust and reliable Rotax® single-cylinder engine, specifically designed to deliver exceptional performance and durability for off-road use. With a displacement of 427cc, this engine is capable of providing 38 horsepower, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking specific power characteristics to conquer challenging terrains.

In addition to its impressive power output, the engine features a 4-stroke configuration with liquid cooling and 4 valves per cylinder, ensuring efficient heat dissipation and optimal performance even in demanding conditions. The combination of these specifications contributes to the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5’s ability to tackle rugged terrain with ease, providing users with a reliable and exhilarating off-road experience.

SpecificationValue
Engine TypeSingle-Cylinder
Displacement (cc/ci)427 / 26
Horsepower (bhp)38

Transmission System and Shifting Options

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 comes equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) system, offering seamless and uninterrupted power delivery. This transmission type is well-suited for both utility work and off-road adventures due to its ability to adapt to varying load and terrain conditions. The CVT operates through a system of pulleys and a belt, continuously adjusting gear ratios to maintain optimal engine performance and efficiency across a wide range of speeds.

One of the key benefits of the CVT in the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is its ability to provide consistent and smooth power delivery, essential for utility tasks such as towing, hauling, and traversing challenging terrain. Additionally, the CVT’s seamless gear transitions and instant response to throttle inputs make it highly capable for off-road use, allowing the vehicle to maintain momentum and traction in diverse and demanding environments.

SpecificationValue
TransmissionContinuously Variable (CVT)
Hi / Low RangeYes
ReverseYes
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel)Shaft / Shaft

Driveline Configuration and 4×4 Capabilities

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 comes with a selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline type, offering versatility for various terrain conditions. With two available driveline modes, this utility vehicle ensures optimal performance and control, even in challenging off-road environments. The standard differential lock, featuring ViscoLok technology located at the front, enhances traction and stability, making it ideal for conquering rugged terrains and uneven surfaces.

Moreover, the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a differential lock brand, ViscoLok, which further contributes to its off-road capabilities. The 4X4 system, combined with the selectable driveline modes, allows the vehicle to adapt to different terrains, ensuring superior handling and performance. Whether maneuvering through mud, snow, or rocky landscapes, the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 provides exceptional traction and control, making it a reliable off-road companion.

SpecificationValue
Driveline TypeSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
Number Of Driveline Modes2
Rear Unlocking DifferentialNo
Rear Solid AxleNo
Differential LockStandard
Differential Lock BrandViscoLok
Differential Lock LocationFront
TransmissionStandard
Transmission TypeContinuously Variable (CVT)
Hi / Low RangeYes
ReverseYes
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel)Shaft / Shaft

Dimensions and Technical Specifications

SpecificationValue
Length (in/mm)120 / 3050
Width (in/mm)62 / 1575
Height (in/mm)75.5 / 1918
Wheelbase (in/mm)83 / 2115
Ground Clearance (in/mm)10.5 / 266.7
Dry Weight (lbs/kg)1306 / 592.2
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs)1200 / 544
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs)1500 / 680
Fuel Capacity (gal/l)10.6 / 40
Storage Capacity (cuft/gal/l)1.6 / 10.4 / 39.5
Bed Length (in/mm)38 / 965
Bed Height (in/mm)12 / 305
Bed Width (in/mm)54.5 / 1384
Bed Capacity (lbs./kgs.)600 / 272.2

Understanding the dimensions and technical specifications of the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is crucial in assessing its usability and performance across various scenarios. With a length of 120 inches, a width of 62 inches, and a height of 75.5 inches, this utility task vehicle (UTV) offers ample space for occupants and cargo, while the wheelbase of 83 inches ensures stability across different terrains. The ground clearance of 10.5 inches allows the Defender DPS HD5 to navigate rough and uneven surfaces with ease, while the dry weight of 1306 lbs and substantial payload and towing capacities further enhance its versatility. Additionally, the 10.6-gallon fuel capacity and 1.6 cubic feet of storage capacity provide ample range and storage for extended journeys.

Exterior Design and Visual Appeal

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 showcases a robust and purposeful exterior design that seamlessly blends functionality with visual appeal. At its core, the Defender DPS HD5 features a sturdy steel frame, providing the necessary strength and durability required for navigating challenging terrains with ease. Additionally, the body material, primarily composed of high-quality plastic, ensures a lightweight yet resilient construction, contributing to the vehicle’s overall agility and rugged charm.

Available in a range of striking color options, the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 allows for personalization, enabling owners to express their individuality and style preferences. Not only does the exterior color palette enhance the vehicle’s visual allure, but it also ensures high visibility in various outdoor environments, promoting safety and practicality. Moreover, the inclusion of standard exterior guards, front bumper, and skid plate underscores the UTV’s utilitarian design, offering protection and resilience during off-road excursions.

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Steering System and Handling Performance of the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a power steering system, which offers precise control and responsiveness. This steering system is specifically designed to cater to both utility and off-road settings, providing seamless maneuverability and ease of operation in diverse terrains.

When it comes to utility functions, the power steering system enhances the vehicle’s ability to navigate through confined spaces and carry out tasks with enhanced precision. In off-road scenarios, the system contributes to reduced driver fatigue and improved handling over rough, uneven terrain, ensuring a more comfortable and controlled driving experience.

Suspension System and Ride Comfort

The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a sophisticated suspension system designed to tackle a variety of terrains with ease. The front suspension features an Independent Double A-Arm setup, while the rear suspension boasts Trailing Torsional A-arms (TTA-HD) of steel construction. The front and rear suspensions are both equipped with shock mounted adjustment and adjustable fork pre-load, ensuring customizable performance to suit the demands of different environments.

These advanced suspension components enable the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 to deliver exceptional comfort and handling, particularly when traversing rugged terrains. With a front travel of 10 inches and rear travel of 10 inches, the vehicle is capable of absorbing impacts and undulations, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The inclusion of a rear stabilizer bar further enhances stability and reduces body roll, contributing to improved handling across various challenging landscapes.

SpecificationValue
Front Suspension TypeIndependent Double A-Arm
Front Adjustable Fork Pre-LoadYes
Rear Suspension Brand NameTrailing Torsional A-arms (TTA-HD)
Rear Suspension TypeIndependent
Rear Suspension MaterialSteel
Adjustment TypeShock Mounted Adjustment
Rear Adjustable Shock / Spring Pre-LoadYes
Number Rear Shock Absorbers2
Rear Stabilizer BarYes
Air AdjustableNo
Front Travel (in/mm)10 / 254
Rear Travel (in/mm)10 / 254

Wheels and Tires for Off-Road Performance

SpecificationValue
Tire BrandMaxxis®
Tread TypeKnobby
Front Tire Size25 x 8-12
Rear Tire Size25 x 10-12

When it comes to the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, the standard wheels are composed of aluminum, while the tires are from Maxxis®, featuring a knobby tread type. The front tire width is 8 inches with a 12-inch wheel diameter, and the rear tire width is 10 inches with a 12-inch wheel diameter. The specific tire size for the front and rear are Maxxis® M923J 25 x 8-12 and Maxxis® M924J 25 x 10-12, respectively. This tire setup is well-suited for off-road performance, providing excellent traction, durability, and stability on challenging terrains.

Braking System and Safety Features

The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 comes equipped with a high-performance braking system designed to provide exceptional safety and control. The front brake type features dual hydraulic discs, while the rear brake type is hydraulic disc. This advanced braking technology ensures reliable and responsive stopping power, essential for navigating challenging terrains and unexpected obstacles.

The combination of dual hydraulic discs at the front and hydraulic disc at the rear is instrumental in delivering precise and consistent braking performance. These features contribute to enhanced safety by providing superior stopping capabilities, allowing users to maintain control and stability even in demanding off-road conditions. The braking system’s reliability and effectiveness offer peace of mind to users, enabling them to focus on the adventure ahead without compromising safety.

SpecificationValue
Front Brake TypeDual Hydraulic Disc
Rear Brake TypeHydraulic Disc
Engine BrakingStandard

Towing and Cargo Capacity

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 offers impressive towing and cargo capacities, making it a versatile utility vehicle suitable for various tasks. The towing capacity of 1500 lbs and payload capacity of 1200 lbs provide the necessary strength to handle demanding towing and hauling requirements. Additionally, with features such as a standard cargo bed, integral tie-down hooks, and optional gun scabbard, this model is well-equipped to support utility applications with its exceptional hauling capabilities.

Equipped with a 600 lbs bed capacity and dimensions of 38 inches in length, 12 inches in height, and 54.5 inches in width, the cargo bed of the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 offers ample space to transport tools, equipment, or supplies essential for utility tasks. The integral tie-down hooks further enhance the secure transportation of cargo, while the optional gun scabbard provides additional convenience for outdoor work. These features collectively demonstrate how the towing and cargo capacities of this model are specifically designed to support utility applications, ensuring efficiency and productivity in various working environments.

SpecificationValue
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs)1500 / 680
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs)1200 / 544
Cargo Bed Capacity (lbs/kgs)600 / 272.2
Cargo Bed Dimensions (LxWxH)38″ x 54.5″ x 12″ (965mm x 1384mm x 305mm)

Seating and Comfort Features

The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is designed to provide exceptional seating and comfort features for both the rider and passenger. The bench seats are crafted with high-quality vinyl, offering durability and support for long rides. Additionally, the inclusion of headrests enhances the overall comfort and safety of the occupants. With standard specifications and the presence of a grab rail or strap, the seating arrangement ensures a secure and comfortable experience for all occupants.

In terms of passenger comfort, the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 offers folding seats, providing versatility and convenience. The thoughtful inclusion of cupholders, glove box/dash storage, and integral tie-down hooks further enhances the overall experience, allowing passengers to carry essentials and securely store belongings during the journey. These well-crafted seating and comfort features contribute significantly to the overall appeal and functionality of the vehicle, making it an ideal choice for utility and recreational purposes.

2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 Seating and Comfort Features

Dashboard and Instrumentation

The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a comprehensive array of digital instrumentation and displays, providing the operator with essential information at a glance. These advanced features not only enhance the rider’s control over the vehicle but also facilitate real-time monitoring, ensuring a seamless and informed driving experience.

  • Digital Instrumentation – Standard
  • Clock – Standard
  • Speedometer – Standard
  • Tachometer – Standard
  • Trip Odometer – Standard
  • Hour Meter – Standard
  • Fuel Level Warning – Standard
  • Fuel Level Warning Type – Gauge
  • Temperature Warning – Standard
  • Temperature Warning Type – Light
  • Digital Instrumentation – Standard
  • Clock – Standard
  • Speedometer – Standard
  • Tachometer – Standard
  • Trip Odometer – Standard
  • Hour Meter – Standard
  • Fuel Level Warning – Standard
  • Fuel Level Warning Type – Gauge
  • Temperature Warning – Standard
  • Temperature Warning Type – Light
  • Storage Options and Utility Features

    When it comes to the 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, the storage and utility features play a crucial role in enhancing the vehicle’s versatility for various tasks. The UTV comes equipped with a range of storage options such as glove box, dash storage, and cargo bed, each designed to offer practical solutions for carrying tools, equipment, and personal items.

    The cargo bed, with dimensions of 38 inches in length, 12 inches in height, and 54.5 inches in width, provides a generous capacity of 600 lbs, offering ample space for transporting heavy loads with ease. Additionally, the presence of integral tie-down hooks and an optional gun scabbard further enhances the UTV’s adaptability for various outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for both work and recreational purposes.

    SpecificationValue
    Glove Box / Dash StorageStandard
    CupholderStandard
    Number Of Cupholders2
    Cargo BedStandard
    Integral Tie-Down HooksYes
    Gun ScabbardOptional
    Bed Length (in/mm)38 / 965
    Bed Height (in/mm)12 / 305
    Bed Width (in/mm)54.5 / 1384
    Bed Capacity (lbs./kgs.)600 / 272.2

    Lighting System and Visibility Enhancements

    The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 is equipped with a comprehensive lighting system designed to enhance safety and visibility, especially during low-light conditions. The headlight and taillight configurations play a crucial role in ensuring the vehicle’s visibility and the driver’s ability to navigate challenging terrains. Let’s explore the lighting and visibility features that the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 offers and how they contribute to improving safety during low-light conditions.

    The Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 features a standard halogen headlight system, providing reliable illumination for night-time operations. Additionally, it offers optional accessories such as a headlight mounting bar, work lights for the front or rear, and other customizable lighting options to suit specific requirements. These features aim to optimize visibility and ensure that the driver can effectively assess the surroundings, even in challenging low-light scenarios.

    • Type: Halogen
    • Headlight Mounting Bar: Optional
    • Work Light Front or Rear: Optional
    • Other Lights: Optional
    • Headlight (s): Standard
    • Halogen Headlight (s): Standard

    Convenience and Additional Features

    The 2018 Can-Am Defender DPS HD5 comes equipped with a range of convenience features that cater to the practical needs of daily use and utility tasks. These features include glove box/dash storage, cupholders, cargo bed with integral tie-down hooks, and an optional gun scabbard. The inclusion of these features underscores the vehicle’s commitment to enhancing user experience through thoughtful and functional design elements.

    • Glove Box / Dash Storage – Standard
    • Cupholder – Standard (Number Of Cupholders: 2)
    • Cargo Bed with Integral Tie-Down Hooks – Yes
    • Gun Scabbard – Optional
  • Glove Box / Dash Storage – Standard
  • Cupholder – Standard (Number Of Cupholders: 2)
  • Cargo Bed with Integral Tie-Down Hooks – Yes
  • Gun Scabbard – Optional
  • Mounting Options and Custom Attachments

    When it comes to the Can-Am Defender DPS HD5, there are several mounting options and custom attachments that can significantly expand the vehicle’s functionality. These include mounts for accessories such as plows, gun scabbards, and cargo carriers, as well as custom attachments like windshield mounts. Each of these options serves to enhance the utility and versatility of the UTV, allowing owners to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences.

    • Gun Scabbard Mount – Optional
    • Plow Mount – Optional
    • Windshield Mounts – Optional
  • Gun Scabbard Mount – Optional
  • Plow Mount – Optional
  • Windshield Mounts – Optional