Overview
Anyone running through wooded trails or hunting in remote areas will appreciate a UTV built for work and play in rugged outdoor conditions. The 2016 Can-Am Commander Mossy Oak™ Hunting Edition 1000 is a sport utility vehicle designed specifically for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable off-road performance combined with the capacity to carry gear into the field.
This model features a 976cc V Twin engine with liquid cooling and electronic fuel injection, providing enough power to navigate tough terrain without excessive fuel consumption. Its CVT transmission coupled with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes allows for smooth power delivery and adaptable traction on uneven ground. The vehicle’s suspension setup includes independent double A-arms at the front and rear, each with 10 inches of travel, helping it handle rocky trails and muddy paths while maintaining comfort and stability.
Targeted at hunters, outdoor workers, or anyone needing a dependable workhorse for outdoor terrain, this UTV combines a practical design with specific features like Maxxis Bighorn tires and a 10-gallon fuel tank for extended trips. Its dimensions and ground clearance make it suited for navigating narrow trails and crossing rough ground without getting stuck. The Mossy Oak™ Hunting Edition’s notable camouflage pattern and added storage options make it a strong contender for those seeking a dedicated hunting machine that blends functionality with purpose-built features.
Performance & Powertrain
With 976 cc of engine displacement, the V Twin design in this machine delivers a balanced mix of power and torque suited for mid-range tasks. The liquid cooling system helps maintain consistent operating temperatures during extended use, whether you’re hauling gear or navigating rough terrain. Fuel injection ensures reliable starts and improves efficiency, especially in varying conditions like cold mornings or hot afternoons.
The engine’s power tends to arrive with a firm pull rather than a sudden surge, making it suitable for trail adventures, work applications, or hunting setups. It offers enough juice for moderate climbs and towing light loads, but it isn’t designed for high-speed racing or heavy hauling. The CVT transmission keeps the power delivery smooth, adjusting smoothly to rider input without the need for shifting gears. This means less fuss on the trail and more focus on navigation and task completion.
Driving this machine in 4×4 mode adds extra traction when tackling loose dirt, mud, or uneven ground. The 4×2 setting works well on smooth terrain or when conserving fuel, allowing riders to switch as needed. The drivetrain’s design emphasizes ease of use over aggressive performance, prioritizing reliable power delivery and control in a wide range of outdoor scenarios. Long-term, the engine’s simple layout and liquid cooling make routine maintenance simple, helping ensure this model remains dependable year after year.
Suspension & Handling
With 10 inches of suspension travel in both the front and rear, this machine is built to handle a variety of terrains, from loose dirt and gravel to uneven trail surfaces. The independent double A-arm front suspension provides good wheel articulation, helping keep tires in contact with the ground during sidehilling or over rough patches. The rear suspension’s independent setup also offers 10 inches of travel, allowing the vehicle to absorb bumps and dips without losing stability or rider comfort.
On tight trails or rocky terrain, the suspension’s travel helps manage obstacles without excessive bouncing or bottoming out. The 10-inch travel is enough to smooth out moderate jumps or washboard sections on dirt roads, but it may feel stiff on very rough terrain compared to longer-travel setups found on dedicated off-road vehicles. For work tasks involving uneven ground, this suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, helping prevent fatigue during extended hours of operation.
Braking comes from dual hydraulic disc brakes in the front and a single hydraulic disc at the rear. This setup provides consistent stopping power on steep descents or when hauling loads. The hydraulic design offers precise modulation, which is especially helpful on technical trails or when navigating tight corners. The 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires, sized 27 x 9-14 up front and 27 x 11-14 in the rear, deliver solid grip on loose or hard-packed dirt. The large diameter helps with traction over uneven surfaces, making the machine more predictable and easier to control in off-road conditions.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to haul this UTV into a standard truck bed or need it to fit comfortably in tight spaces, you’ll want to know its overall size and rider fit. Measuring 120.2 inches in length and 62.5 inches wide, this machine offers enough room for most trail paths and work sites without feeling overly bulky. Its height of 72 inches keeps it tall enough to clear most obstacles but not so high that it becomes unwieldy on narrow trails. The wheelbase of 75.8 inches contributes to stability, especially on uneven terrain, while ground clearance of 10 inches helps navigate rough patches without hanging up.
- Seat height is designed for a wide range of riders, giving enough room for shorter drivers while still accommodating taller ones comfortably.
- Dry weight of 1287 pounds means it’s substantial enough for stability but still manageable to tow or load onto a truck bed.
- Fuel capacity of 10 gallons can cover long days of hunting or trail riding before needing a refill.
This size and shape make it suitable for most off-road tasks and weekend adventures, with enough room to carry gear and a rider comfortably, while dimensions stay manageable for transport and storage in typical garages or truck beds.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to hunt or work in rough outdoor conditions, you’ll notice right away that this model offers several enhancements over basic trims that add real value to your day-to-day use. One of the most significant upgrades is the inclusion of a fuel-injected V Twin engine. This setup delivers smoother throttle response and more consistent power across different temperatures, which is especially helpful during long hunting trips or when navigating variable terrains.
Another feature that sets this model apart is the addition of a Mossy Oak camouflage design that isn’t just for looks. This pattern helps conceal the vehicle in wooded environments, providing an advantage for hunters needing to stay hidden. Coupled with this, the model comes with a set of accessories tailored for outdoor work and hunting, such as premium bumpers and storage options, which make it easier to carry gear without sacrificing performance or convenience.
Convenience plays a big role in this edition. The continuous variable transmission with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive system makes shifting between modes quick and simple, letting you adapt to changing terrain without fuss. While many competitors at this price point stick with standard transmissions, the CVT here offers a quieter ride and better fuel efficiency during extended use, whether you’re working on a farm or exploring forest trails.
Pricing & Value
Most sport UTVs in the mid-range segment are priced around $15,000 to $20,000, and the 2016 Can-Am Commander Mossy Oak Hunting Edition 1000 carries an MSRP of $18,849. This puts it comfortably within the expected range for a specialty model aimed at hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who want a machine designed for rugged terrain and extended use in the field.
At this price point, the Commander Mossy Oak edition offers a package that balances performance with added features tailored to hunting and outdoor activities. It is positioned above entry-level models from Can-Am that typically target casual or light-duty use, but it isn’t at the top of the lineup, where more premium trims include additional accessories, enhanced comfort features, and electronic upgrades. The price reflects its niche focus, with the Mossy Oak camouflage and specialized accessories contributing to its premium feel without pushing it into high-end UTV territory.
Compared to competitors in the same segment, such as the Polaris Ranger or Yamaha Viking, the Commander Mossy Oak’s pricing aligns well with what buyers receive in terms of branding, durability, and the outdoor-specific design. For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize hunting, the value comes from the combination of rugged construction, the proven 1000cc V-Twin engine, and the distinct Mossy Oak finish. The machine justifies its cost for those who need a purpose-built and dependable workhorse that doubles as a hunting partner, rather than just an off-road recreational vehicle.
the $18,849 asking price is fair for what the machine offers. It falls into the mid-range price category but delivers a package tailored specifically to outdoor and hunting applications. Buyers looking for a dedicated hunting UTV with strong engine performance and outdoor-themed styling will find this model a reasonable investment, especially when considering the durability and brand reputation behind Can-Am. It may be slightly above the entry-level options, but it matches the value expectations of its target audience without overshooting the segment’s typical price range.
Final Thoughts
This is a machine that balances hunting-focused features with workhorse reliability, making it a sensible choice for serious hunters or landowners who want a machine that can also handle occasional hauling or trail riding. Its Mossy Oak camouflage pattern and rugged styling are designed to appeal to those who hunt or spend a lot of time on heavily wooded properties. The 1000cc engine provides enough power for towing gear, managing rough terrain, or navigating steep inclines without feeling sluggish, which is important when you’re miles from the nearest help or on demanding trails.
The key strength of this UTV is its emphasis on durability and practical use. It’s built to endure challenging environments, with a focus on ease of maintenance and long-term performance. That being said, it’s not a machine for casual riders or those who primarily want a recreational vehicle for smooth, leisure trail rides. It excels in rough conditions, but may feel overbuilt and less refined for everyday comfort or light use. Its size and weight can make it less nimble in tight woods or small trails compared to smaller side-by-sides.
Those who prioritize a hunting or work-oriented machine will find this Commander model offers everything needed to get through tough days in the woods or on a farm. Its defining trait is the combination of power and ruggedness, with an emphasis on durability in demanding conditions. If your needs include hauling gear, towing small trailers, or navigating rugged, uneven terrain regularly, this machine will serve well. However, if you want something primarily for casual trail riding or lighter tasks, exploring other options with less weight and more refined handling might be worth considering.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2016 Can-Am Commander Mossy Oak™ Hunting Edition 1000
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire27x9-14
- Dry weight1287 lb
- Tires27x9-14Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit976ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1287 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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