Overview
Most sport side-by-sides in the UTV segment aim to combine aggressive performance with responsive handling, and the 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 RS TURBO R fits this mold well. It’s built for thrill-seekers who want a machine that excels on technical trails, open dunes, or racing courses. With a focus on agility and power, this model appeals to drivers who demand high-speed fun and precise control in demanding environments.
Powered by a 900 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected inline engine, the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R delivers a strong balance of torque and top-end speed. Its CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline ensures versatility across different terrains, whether you’re carving through tight turns or powering over rough terrain. The suspension setup featuring 22 inches of travel at both the front and rear provides a smooth yet responsive ride that can handle uneven ground with confidence.
Designed with a focus on agility and durability, this UTV features dual hydraulic disc brakes at both ends for reliable stopping power. The 29-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires give it ample grip in loose or rocky conditions, while the 68.5-inch height and 102-inch wheelbase contribute to its stability at high speeds. Weighing around 1,620 pounds and equipped with a 10.5-gallon fuel tank, the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R balances weight distribution with endurance, making it suitable for both aggressive trail riding and competitive racing.
What sets this model apart within its segment is its emphasis on high-performance engineering combined with user-focused features. It’s built for drivers who want a machine that can chase speed and conquer technical terrain without sacrificing comfort or control, making it a notable contender for those seeking a trail-ready sport UTV with race-bred capabilities.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and the 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 RS TURBO R reveals a 900 cc horizontal in-line engine that pushes out significantly more power than many competitors in the sport UTV segment. The liquid cooling system keeps engine temperatures stable during aggressive runs or extended hours, ensuring consistent performance. Fuel injection provides precise throttle response, which is crucial when navigating technical terrain or maintaining control at high speeds.
This engine configuration delivers a responsive power delivery that emphasizes torque for quick acceleration and climbing. The 900 cc displacement exceeds typical sport UTV engines found in this class, which often hover around 800 cc, giving the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R an edge in raw pulling power. The engine’s design promotes quick throttle response, making it suited for dynamic off-road tasks, whether weaving through tight trails or powering up steep inclines.
The transmission setup employs a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which allows for seamless power transfer without the shift shock of traditional gearboxes. Coupled with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline, this system offers flexibility for different terrains and driving preferences. Engaging 4X4 mode enhances traction when tackling loose or uneven surfaces, while switching to 2WD can improve efficiency on firm ground. The combination of engine output and transmission tuning makes this machine highly responsive for aggressive trail riding or high-speed runs.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on rough terrain puts the suspension system to the test, especially with 22 inches of travel front and rear. This amount of suspension travel is suited for tackling uneven trails, rocky sections, or loose dirt, absorbing impacts that would otherwise jolt the driver and destabilize the vehicle. The Double A-Arm setup in the front provides precise wheel control and stability during aggressive cornering, while the independent rear suspension enhances ride comfort and traction over varied surfaces.
- Front suspension: Double A-Arm with 22 inches of travel
- Rear suspension: Independent with 22 inches of travel
- Braking system: Dual hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
- Tire sizes: Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 29 x 9-14 front, 29 x 11-14 rear
- Trail grip and stability benefit from the tire tread pattern and size designed for mixed terrain
Braking performance relies on dual hydraulic disc brakes at both ends, offering strong stopping power and modulation for quick deceleration on loose or hard-packed surfaces. The Maxxis Bighorn tires, with their aggressive tread design and ample sidewall height, provide excellent grip across a range of terrains, from rocky trails to soft dirt. Combined, the suspension, brakes, and tires work in concert to deliver a balanced handling experience that remains predictable and responsive whether you’re carving tight turns or navigating rough patches at speed.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
With a length of 11 feet, the Can-Am Maverick X3 RS TURBO R offers enough space to fit into most standard pickup truck beds for transportation, yet it remains narrow enough at 9 inches wide to provide stability without feeling unwieldy. Its height of 68.5 inches helps it stay low enough for aggressive handling while giving ample clearance for various terrain types.
The wheelbase measures 102 inches, which contributes to balanced handling and stability at high speeds, especially important in a sport-focused UTV like this. Ground clearance of 15.5 inches allows for navigating rough trail conditions and obstacles without risking undercarriage contact, supporting aggressive off-road use without sacrificing comfort.
At 1620 pounds dry, the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R strikes a balance between weight and agility. This weight supports stability on uneven terrain, yet it remains manageable for towing and loading onto trailers or trucks. The 10.5-gallon fuel tank extends operational range, making longer rides or expeditions more practical without frequent refueling.
The seat height is designed to suit a broad range of riders, with enough elevation to provide a commanding view of the trail while still being accessible for shorter drivers. these dimensions emphasize a machine built for dynamic handling, comfort, and adaptability across various off-road scenarios. The combination of size, weight, and ergonomic elements should appeal to those seeking a purpose-built yet manageable sport UTV.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the inclusion of a liquid-cooled, 900cc horizontally opposed inline engine, which delivers a blend of power and efficiency that exceeds many competitors in this segment. This engine’s configuration is generally associated with smooth operation and a wider power band, benefiting off-road performance and responsiveness.
Unlike base models, this Maverick X3 RS TURBO R comes equipped with a fuel-injected system that ensures consistent throttle response and easier cold starts. The fuel injection system is a notable upgrade from carbureted setups often found in entry-level UTVs, providing more precise fuel delivery and better overall efficiency.
A key differentiator is the transmission setup-featuring a continuously variable transmission with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline option. This flexibility allows riders to tailor the vehicle’s traction and power delivery depending on terrain, which can be a real advantage during aggressive trail riding or when tackling challenging conditions.
While the base trim may lack sophisticated electronics or comfort features, this model emphasizes driver control and operational convenience without adding excessive complexity. Its no-frills design focuses on performance and adaptability, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who prioritize powertrain capability combined with simple, accessible controls.
Pricing & Value
The interesting choice Can-Am made was setting the MSRP at $22,499 for the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R, positioning it firmly in the high-performance side of the sport UTV segment. That price reflects a machine geared toward serious enthusiasts who demand top-tier power, advanced suspension, and aggressive styling, rather than entry-level affordability.
Compared to other sport UTVs in this class, the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R commands a premium, but it also packs a significant amount of hardware designed for competitive driving and demanding off-road conditions. The value proposition hinges on the combination of its turbocharged engine, advanced suspension setup, and overall durability. For someone seeking a machine that offers high-speed capability and precise handling, the price is justified by what it delivers on the trail or track.
Within Can-Am’s lineup, this model sits near the top of the sport-focused range, above models such as the Maverick X3 X RS and Maverick X3 X RC, which typically have lower starting prices and fewer performance features. Moving up, the Maverick X3 X RC, for example, adds even more aggressive tuning and accessories, pushing the price above $25,000. Below the RS TURBO R, the base Maverick X3 models are priced around $19,999, offering a less equipped but more affordable entry point.
Given these considerations, the $22,499 price tag for the RS TURBO R can be seen as fair for the performance and features it offers. It may be expensive for casual trail riders but aligns well with enthusiasts or racers who prioritize speed and precision. In this context, it represents a good value for buyers who genuinely need the high-performance capabilities and are willing to invest accordingly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to push the limits on rough terrain or demanding trails, you’ll want to know that the Can-Am Maverick X3 RS TURBO R is built with a 195 horsepower turbocharged engine and a chassis that emphasizes high-speed stability and aggressive handling. Its wide stance and sport-oriented design make it ideal for experienced riders who prioritize performance and control at high speeds. This machine’s most defining feature is its turbocharged engine paired with a sophisticated suspension system, which together deliver exceptional power delivery and cornering ability in off-road environments.
However, if your main goal is a smooth, comfortable ride for extended recreational outings or if you prefer a more subdued ride quality, this model may not be the best fit. Its focus on high-speed cornering and aggressive driving means it sacrifices some comfort and ease of driving for the sake of raw performance. The cockpit and suspension tuning are optimized for quick, dynamic movements rather than relaxed cruising.
In the end, the Maverick X3 RS TURBO R is a machine that demands a skilled rider who recognizes the value of its power and precision. It excels in competitive scenarios or challenging trail conditions where quick reflexes and sharp handling matter most. If you’re seeking a sport-oriented UTV that offers adrenaline-pumping performance and are willing to handle a demanding ride, this model is a strong choice. For those after a more laid-back off-road experience, other models with softer tuning and more comfort features will serve better.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 RS TURBO R
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 tire29x9-14
- Dry weight1620 lb
- Tires29x9-14Front 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 kit900ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps3000 lbRated above the 1620 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.