Overview
Most sport UTVs under $20,000 are built with a focus on performance, agility, and adrenaline-fueled fun, and the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO exemplifies this approach. Designed for those who seek high-speed off-road adventures and demanding terrain navigation, this machine emphasizes aggressive handling, strong power, and a sporty character that appeals to enthusiasts and skilled drivers alike.
The Maverick X3 TURBO features a 900cc horizontally opposed inline engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection, delivering a burst of torque and responsiveness that surpasses many competitors in its segment. Its CVT transmission paired with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline allows drivers to adapt to changing trail conditions while maintaining simple control. The chassis is built for off-road agility, with 20 inches of front and rear suspension travel-double A-arm at the front and independent at the rear-providing a good balance between comfort and stability when tackling rough terrain.
Constructed with dimensions that strike a balance between maneuverability and stability, the Maverick X3 TURBO measures 131 inches in length, 64 inches wide, and stands 66 inches tall. Its 102-inch wheelbase enhances cornering precision, while a 14-inch ground clearance enables it to clear obstacles without compromising stability. Weighing 1,470 pounds dry and equipped with Maxxis Bighorn tires, the machine is built for high-speed runs, technical trails, and competitive environments, all packed into a sporty profile designed to excite drivers looking for a serious off-road machine that can handle a variety of terrains.
Performance & Powertrain
With a 900cc horizontal in-line engine, this machine offers a notable balance between power and compactness, positioning it well within the sport UTV segment. The liquid cooling system ensures consistent engine temperatures during intense off-road conditions, which helps maintain optimal performance and prevents overheating during extended runs. Fuel injection optimizes throttle response and efficiency, especially under varying load and altitude conditions, making it suitable for both recreational trail riding and more aggressive dune or desert use.
The engine’s displacement provides a substantial power reserve for a machine this size, translating into quick acceleration and strong torque delivery. The typical power output from a 900cc four-stroke engine in this category usually hovers around 100 to 120 horsepower, which allows for rapid acceleration and high top speeds. This makes the Maverick X3 built to handle demanding tasks like hill climbs, high-speed runs, and towing lightweight trailers, without sacrificing reliability or throttle precision.
The drivetrain employs a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which smooths power delivery and simplifies operation compared to traditional gearboxes. The CVT’s ability to adapt smoothly to changes in terrain and throttle input provides a smooth ride, reducing driver fatigue during long or technical trails. The selectable 4X2 and 4X4 driveline options enhance off-road traction and stability, enabling the driver to switch between two-wheel drive for efficiency and four-wheel drive for maximum grip on challenging surfaces. This flexibility makes it suited for a wide range of off-road scenarios, from casual trail riding to more aggressive dune adventures or muddy conditions.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on rough trail conditions puts the suspension components of the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO to the test, especially with its 20-inch travel on both the front and rear suspension systems. The double A-arm design at the front provides a durable platform for absorbing impacts from uneven terrain, maintaining wheel contact and stability during aggressive maneuvering. This configuration allows for precise steering response and predictable handling on rocky or root-laden trails, where quick adjustments are essential.
The independent rear suspension, also boasting 20 inches of travel, enhances ride comfort across a variety of surfaces. It isolates the chassis from bumps and shocks, reducing rider fatigue over long distances or extended off-road hours. The equal travel figures between front and rear optimize balance and dynamics, ensuring the vehicle can handle sharp inclines, rutted paths, and loose terrain without excessive body roll or loss of control. This suspension setup favors high-speed trail riding and technical sections alike, where predictable handling and impact absorption are critical.
Braking performance complements the suspension capabilities with dual hydraulic disc brakes both front and rear. These provide strong stopping power and modulation, essential when descending steep inclines or navigating tight corners. The sizable Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires in 28 x 9-14 (front) and 28 x 11-14 (rear) dimensions deliver substantial grip across a range of terrain types. Their aggressive tread pattern improves traction on loose dirt and gravel, while the ample contact patch ensures stability on hardpack surfaces. Together, the suspension, brakes, and tires form a system designed for confident control whether tackling technical trails or working on rugged terrain.”
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Most sport UTVs in the same price bracket as the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO measure around 130 inches in length, roughly 64 inches wide, and sit about 66 inches tall. This size makes it manageable for transporting in a standard pickup truck bed with a typical length of 8 feet, as it fits comfortably without overhang. The wheelbase of 102 inches contributes to stability during aggressive cornering, while the ground clearance of 14 inches allows it to traverse rough terrain without risking underbody damage.
The Maverick X3’s dry weight of approximately 1470 pounds strikes a balance between sturdiness and agility, supporting high-speed handling without becoming unwieldy. Its seat height of around 36 inches caters to a broad range of rider heights, offering enough elevation for visibility in rough terrain while not being so high as to challenge shorter riders. This ergonomic setup ensures that operators of varying statures can comfortably reach the controls and maintain control during extended rides.
Additional dimensions influence usability: with a fuel capacity of 10.5 gallons, the Maverick X3 offers a practical combination of range and weight distribution, reducing the need for frequent refueling on long outings. Its width provides stability on uneven ground without sacrificing maneuverability, and the overall size supports a comfortable riding stance for extended periods. These proportions facilitate both aggressive trail riding and casual recreation, making the vehicle adaptable to different terrains and rider preferences.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to push the limits of high-speed trail riding or dune racing, you’ll want to know how this model elevates performance through its engineering choices. A key upgrade over previous years and many competitors is the liquid-cooled, 900cc horizontal in-line engine, which offers a broader powerband and improved thermal management in demanding conditions. This engine layout allows for a more compact design while maintaining a low center of gravity, enhancing stability during aggressive maneuvers.
Beyond raw power, the Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO incorporates a modern CVT transmission with a selectable drive mode system, enabling quick adaptation to varied terrains. The inclusion of automatic belt tensioning and a dedicated cooling system for the CVT ensures consistent performance without operator intervention. This system minimizes power loss and reduces the risk of belt overheating during extended high-load operation, which is critical for maintaining momentum in challenging environments.
Additional features focus on driver convenience and control, such as the integration of a sophisticated drive selector that toggles between 4X2 and 4X4 modes. This capability allows the driver to optimize traction and power distribution based on terrain conditions without interrupting the ride. While standard in this class, the ability to switch modes on the fly is a tangible benefit for those navigating fluctuating surfaces, enhancing both safety and efficiency. these enhancements provide an edge in handling and durability that set this model apart from more basic sport UTVs within the same price range.
Pricing & Value
Most sport UTVs in the $20,000 range tend to emphasize high performance and advanced features, and the Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO fits squarely within this market. Priced at $19,999, it targets enthusiasts seeking aggressive off-road capability combined with modern technology, positioning itself as a mid-range option that balances cost and performance effectively.
- It sits above entry-level models that lack turbocharged engines and premium suspension components.
- Compared to more expensive trims or competitive models, it offers a strong combination of power, handling, and technology for the price point.
- Lower trims in Can-Am’s lineup generally sacrifice the turbo engine or advanced chassis upgrades, making this model a more comprehensive package for its cost.
- Above this version, Can-Am offers higher-spec variants with additional features, but these can push the price well beyond $20,000.
Given its specifications and positioning, the Maverick X3 TURBO provides a compelling value proposition in the sport UTV segment. It delivers more performance and comfort than basic models at a price that remains competitive for enthusiasts demanding serious off-road performance without stepping into the premium price tiers. That makes it a sound choice for buyers who want a high-performing machine without overpaying for features they may not need.
Final Thoughts
The interesting choice Can-Am made was to equip the Maverick X3 TURBO with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering substantial power while maintaining a relatively compact footprint. This configuration emphasizes high-performance capability in a lightweight chassis, making it suitable for aggressive off-road driving and demanding terrain. The focus on a turbocharged setup enables the machine to deliver brisk acceleration and notable top speeds, which are crucial for enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-fueled rides.
This machine is best suited for sport-minded riders who prioritize aggressive handling, quick responsiveness, and the thrill of high-speed off-road navigation. Its engineering emphasizes a balance of power and agility, but it demands a skilled operator to extract its full potential. Riders looking for a machine that can double as a utility vehicle or one with a more subdued character should consider other options, as the emphasis here is firmly on performance rather than versatility or load-carrying capacity.
The most defining quality of the Maverick X3 TURBO is its power-to-weight ratio, achieved through a focused design that minimizes unnecessary bulk while maximizing engine output. This results in rapid acceleration, nimble cornering, and a visceral off-road experience that sets it apart from more utilitarian or less performance-oriented competitors. This is a machine that makes no apologies for its sporty intent and delivers on that promise with precision and excitement.
For riders who crave a machine that epitomizes high-speed off-road performance and are willing to accept the trade-offs in comfort and utility, the Maverick X3 TURBO is a compelling choice. If your priorities are durability, payload capacity, or day-long comfort, exploring other options would be advisable. For pure adrenaline and quick, sharp handling, this machine stands out in its class and warrants serious consideration.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO
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 tire28x9-14
- Dry weight1470 lb
- Tires28x9-14Front 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 1470 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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