Overview
Most sport UTVs offer high-performance engines, aggressive styling, and features designed for off-road excitement – this one, the 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO, stands out with a 900cc liquid-cooled inline engine that delivers strong acceleration and quick throttle response. Built primarily for trail riding, dune adventures, and high-speed fun, it appeals to riders who want a machine that can handle demanding terrains while still offering a degree of comfort and control.
In the competitive world of sport side-by-sides, the Maverick X3 TURBO is aimed at enthusiasts who prioritize speed, agility, and aggressive handling. Its suspension setup, with 20 inches of front and rear travel, and dual hydraulic disc brakes, make it ready for rugged terrain and sharp turns. The machine’s lightweight design, weighing around 1,481 pounds, contributes to nimble handling, especially when paired with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes, giving drivers the flexibility to adapt to different trail conditions or loose surfaces.
What makes this model particularly notable in its segment is its focus on high-performance features combined with user-friendly controls. The inclusion of Maxxis Bighorn tires enhances traction off-road, while a 10.5-gallon fuel tank extends ride time before refueling. Positioned at an accessible price point of $18,999, the Maverick X3 TURBO is built for intermediate to advanced riders who demand speed and agility without sacrificing reliability or comfort during long, adrenaline-filled sessions.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and the 900cc horizontally opposed inline engine roars to life, delivering a punchy power output suited for high-speed trail riding and quick acceleration across open terrain. The liquid cooling system keeps engine temperatures in check during extended runs, preventing overheating that can occur under hard use. Fuel injection ensures consistent throttle response and efficient fuel delivery, even in challenging conditions or when navigating steep inclines.
This engine design emphasizes immediate throttle response, making it suited for aggressive driving styles and demanding terrain. The 900cc displacement is on the higher end for sport UTVs in this class, translating into more torque and better capability in rough terrain or when tackling steep climbs. The power output is more than enough for spirited trail adventures, but it also provides enough low-end grunt for hauling or towing tasks, should the situation call for it.
The transmission employs a continuously variable (CVT) setup, which smooths out power delivery and eliminates the need for shifting gears. This setup makes the Maverick X3 Turbo easy to operate across different speeds and terrains, providing quick throttle response without the interruption of gear changes. The driveline can be set to 4X2 for casual trail riding or switched to 4X4 when encountering loose or uneven surfaces, giving the rider flexibility in varying conditions.
Suspension & Handling
With 20 inches of suspension travel at both the front and rear, this machine is designed to absorb rough terrain and provide a comfortable ride across a variety of surfaces. The double A-arm setup in the front features a long travel distance that helps maintain stability and control when navigating rocky or uneven trails. The independent rear suspension further improves handling by allowing each wheel to respond individually to terrain variations, reducing body roll and maintaining traction on loose or uneven ground.
Braking is handled by dual hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear, offering strong stopping power and modulation. These brakes are suited for high-speed trail riding or quick stops when maneuvering through tight turns or sudden obstacles. The dual disc setup ensures consistent performance under demanding conditions and helps prevent brake fade during prolonged use.
The tire choice combines aggressive tread patterns with 28-inch diameter rubber, specially designed for off-road grip. The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires in 28 x 9-14 front and 28 x 11-14 rear sizes provide solid traction on loose dirt, mud, and rocky terrain, while also offering stability on hardpack surfaces. These tires balance grip and durability, making them suitable for both trail riding and work tasks requiring steady footing.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Among sport UTVs priced around $19,000, the 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO measures 11 feet in length, 9 feet in width, and stands 65.4 inches tall. Its wheelbase stretches 102 inches, contributing to stability at high speeds and on rough terrain. With a ground clearance of 14 inches, the Maverick X3 can handle uneven trails without scraping the chassis or suspension components.
This machine weighs 1,481 pounds when dry, which influences how it handles and how it can be transported. Its compact length makes it manageable for fitting into a typical pickup truck bed-especially if you have a full-size truck-though its width means it may be too wide for some enclosed trailers or tight garage spaces. The 10.5-gallon fuel tank offers a decent range, reducing the need for frequent stops during extended rides.
The seat height is designed to accommodate a broad range of riders, with a height that favors taller users but remains accessible for shorter drivers. The cockpits feature ergonomic placement, allowing for comfortable control and less rider fatigue over long sessions. These dimensions and ergonomic considerations combine to make the Maverick X3 suitable for aggressive trail riding or dune adventures, where rider confidence and comfort are key.”
Notable Features
If you’re planning to tackle rough trails or high-speed desert runs, you’ll want to know about the Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO’s key upgrades that set it apart from previous models and base trims. One of the most significant enhancements is the 900cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, which delivers more power and improved throttle response compared to smaller engines in similar models. This engine architecture is designed to provide quicker acceleration and better torque at various RPM ranges, making it suited for aggressive riding.
Another standout feature is the inclusion of a continuously variable transmission with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline. This setup allows drivers to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive modes on the fly, giving greater control over varying terrain conditions without interrupting the ride. The CVT system ensures smooth power delivery, especially when navigating tight turns or climbing steep inclines, making it an easy-to-manage machine for riders looking for responsive handling.
In addition to powertrain improvements, the Maverick X3 TURBO offers a number of convenience and tech features that enhance the riding experience. These include integrated digital gauges that provide real-time information such as speed, engine temperature, and vital diagnostics, all within easy reach of the driver. While the base models often come with minimal accessories, this model sometimes includes upgraded seats and a more refined cockpit layout, contributing to rider comfort during extended sessions. For riders seeking a machine that balances raw performance with user-friendly controls and modern tech, these features provide tangible value without stepping into luxury territory.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to tackle aggressive trails or dune riding, you’ll want to know whether the Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO justifies its $18,999 price tag. This machine is positioned in the mid-range of Can-Am’s lineup, offering a balance between performance and cost that appeals to serious recreational riders and those looking for a step up from entry-level models.
The Maverick X3 TURBO is priced higher than some competitors in the sport UTV segment, which often have similar powerplants but may lack the refined handling or additional features found on this model. For the premium price, buyers get a machine with significant performance upgrades, including turbocharged power and advanced chassis design, but the overall package might stretch the budget of casual weekend enthusiasts or casual riders who don’t require high-end specs.
This model sits just below Can-Am’s top-tier Maverick X3 models, such as the X3 MAX or X3 RS, which can push well past the $20,000 mark. Moving down to the base Maverick X3 models, you might find slightly less aggressive suspension setups or fewer accessories, which could make the lower trims more appealing for budget-conscious buyers who don’t need every available feature. The TURBO trim is a good value if you want the full performance package without stepping into the higher-price, top-spec versions that include additional comfort and technology features.
the Maverick X3 TURBO offers a package that matches its asking price quite well for riders who demand high throttle response, aggressive handling, and a machine ready for challenging terrain. For those seeking a sport UTV that performs well across various riding scenarios, it’s a fair price point-especially considering the brand reputation for durability and the performance-focused engineering packed into this model. Buyers should consider whether the extra cost aligns with their riding ambitions and how it compares to similarly priced models from other manufacturers, but for dedicated sport riders, this machine delivers value for the money.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the aggressive focus on high-speed performance and cornering ability, making this machine appealing to those who want to push their limits on rugged terrain. The Can-Am Maverick X3 TURBO trades a bit of ride comfort and ease of entry for a design that emphasizes aggressive handling and quick response, which is ideal for experienced drivers seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures.
This is a machine that accelerates rapidly and handles tight turns with confidence, thanks to its sharp steering and lightweight construction. However, that performance-oriented setup might come at the expense of a smoother ride over long, uneven trails. Buyers seeking a more subdued or utility-focused UTV will find better options elsewhere, as this model is clearly built for speed and agility rather than all-day comfort or cargo capacity.
The defining quality of the Maverick X3 TURBO is its near-racecar demeanor-responsive, quick, and highly maneuverable in challenging terrain. This characteristic makes it a top choice for competitive riders or those who prioritize speed and agility above all else. If your goal is a fun, high-performance machine that can handle aggressive riding and tight corners, this model hits that mark without compromise. For most practical purposes, however, a different, less sporty UTV might serve better.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2020 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 weight1481 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 1481 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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