Overview
Anyone running off-road trails, working on rugged terrain, or seeking weekend adventure will appreciate the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X ds TURBO R for its high-performance design and purpose-built features. Built as a sport utility vehicle with an emphasis on speed and agility, this UTV is aimed at riders who want aggressive handling combined with the versatility to tackle a variety of outdoor tasks.
Powered by a 900cc liquid-cooled horizontal in-line engine with fuel injection, the Maverick X3 X ds TURBO R packs enough punch for challenging climbs and fast-paced trail riding. Its CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 and 4X4 drive modes ensures that drivers can adapt quickly to changing terrain, whether they’re navigating rocky paths or loose dirt. The suspension setup, with 20-inch travel in both front and rear double A-arm and independent rear shocks, helps manage rough terrain without sacrificing comfort or control.
Designed with a focus on handling and durability, this model features dual hydraulic disc brakes at both ends and aggressive Maxxis Bighorn tires that grip well on loose surfaces. Its dimensions, including a 14-inch ground clearance and a 102-inch wheelbase, strike a balance between stability and maneuverability. With a 10.5-gallon fuel capacity and a weight under 1,500 pounds, it’s built for extended outings without frequent refueling or feeling overly cumbersome. All these elements make the Maverick X3 X ds TURBO R stand out within its segment as a machine that’s ready to deliver serious performance for riders who demand more from their off-road experience.”
Performance & Powertrain
With a 900cc single-cylinder engine, this machine delivers enough torque for trail riding and moderate work tasks without feeling sluggish. The liquid-cooled design helps maintain consistent temperature during long hours of use, whether you’re carving through tight woodland paths or hauling gear around a jobsite. The fuel injection system ensures steady throttle response and reliable starting, even in cooler weather or when the fuel tank is nearing empty.
The engine’s power is managed through a continuously variable transmission, which smoothly adjusts to rider input without the need for shifting. This setup provides seamless acceleration and deceleration, making it easier to navigate tricky terrain or accelerate out of tight corners without any jerking or lugging. The selectable drive system allows switching between 4X2 and 4X4 modes, giving you the ability to adapt to different trail conditions, mud, or loose gravel with a simple toggle.
At its core, the engine size and transmission combo mean this machine is suited for intermediate trail riding, work tasks around farms or large properties, and weekend adventures where control and predictability matter more than outright brute force. The power delivery feels linear, not abrupt, letting you modulate throttle for precise control when crawling over rocks or climbing steep inclines. It’s a package designed to offer confidence when tackling a wide range of off-road situations, without the complexity of a high-strung engine or heavy drivetrain.
Suspension & Handling
Pull up the throttle and this machine’s suspension setup quickly becomes apparent in how it handles varied terrain. The front uses a Double A-Arm design with 20 inches of travel, giving it a good balance between stability on rough trails and control on hard-packed surfaces. This means it can soak up bumps when you’re tackling rocky paths or uneven dirt, helping you maintain confidence and comfort without excessive body roll or harsh impacts.
The rear suspension features an independent setup also with 20 inches of travel, which helps keep the rear tires in contact with the ground across rougher sections. When working through uneven terrain or making quick directional changes, this suspension design provides predictable handling, reducing the tendency to bounce or lose grip. It’s especially useful for trail riding on loose gravel or loose dirt where maintaining traction is critical.
Braking performance uses dual hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear, offering strong, consistent stopping power. These brakes respond well under load, whether you’re descending a steep hill or making a quick stop in tight terrain. The tires, measuring 29 x 9-14 in the front and 29 x 11-14 in the rear with Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 rubber, provide excellent grip on loose dirt, mud, or hard surfaces. Their larger size adds stability and flotation, making it easier to handle a variety of trail conditions without feeling like you’re fighting against the tires.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Most sport UTVs in this price range measure around 131 inches long and 64 inches wide, and this machine fits those norms while offering some practical benefits for owners. Its length allows it to fit comfortably in a standard pickup truck bed for transport or storage, while the width provides stability without feeling overly broad or unwieldy on tight trails or technical terrain.
- Length: 131 inches
- Width: 64 inches
- Height: 66 inches
- Wheelbase: 102 inches
- Ground clearance: 14 inches
- Dry weight: 1,490 pounds
- Seat height: Designed for a wide range of rider sizes, typically around 34-36 inches, making it accessible for shorter and taller riders alike
With a 10.5-gallon fuel tank, this machine supports longer trail rides without frequent stops for refueling. Its dimensions contribute to a confident ride, offering enough stability for aggressive handling while remaining manageable for most drivers. The seat height and ergonomic layout aim to balance comfort and control, accommodating a variety of rider heights and body types for all-day use on the trail or at work sites.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the turbocharged 900cc engine, which delivers a significant boost in power compared to base models. This engine provides quick acceleration and strong performance when tackling challenging trails or steep inclines, helping drivers get through tough terrain with less effort. The liquid cooling system ensures the engine maintains optimal operating temperatures during long, demanding rides, reducing the risk of overheating when pushing the vehicle hard.
Another key upgrade is the inclusion of a fuel-injected system. This offers more precise throttle response and smoother engine operation under varying conditions, which makes a tangible difference during extended trail rides or when navigating complex obstacles. Also, the model’s selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline allows users to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive easily, adapting to different trail conditions or work scenarios without needing tool changes or complex adjustments.
Although the transmission remains a CVT, which is common in this segment, the integration with the turbocharged engine means that power delivery feels more immediate and responsive. The ability to shift between drive modes quickly enhances the riding experience, whether you’re in a hurry to get through a trail or carefully crawling over rocks and roots. For owners who want a machine that balances raw performance with user-friendly operation, these features set this model apart from simpler, less-equipped competitors.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to take the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X ds TURBO R into demanding terrain or fast-paced trail rides, you’ll want to know whether its price matches what it offers in performance and features. Priced at $24,999, this machine sits near the top of Can-Am’s lineup for sport side-by-sides, targeting enthusiasts who demand high speed, aggressive handling, and advanced engineering for serious off-road use.
Compared to other sport UTVs in the same segment, this model carries a premium price, but it also provides a package that includes a turbocharged engine, a sophisticated suspension setup, and a comprehensive set of features aimed at demanding riders. For its price, it delivers a significant boost in power and agility over more basic models, making it attractive for trail riders who push their limits or for those who want a machine that can handle rougher terrain with confidence. That said, it’s not a bargain bin choice; buyers should be aware that the cost reflects its engineering and performance focus rather than entry-level affordability.
Within Can-Am’s lineup, the Maverick X3 X ds TURBO R is positioned as a high-performance flagship, sitting above the basic X ds Turbo and below more specialized versions like the Turbo R with additional upgrades or aftermarket options. Moving down in the lineup, the base models lack the turbocharged engine and high-end suspension, while stepping up to a Turbo R with extra features or accessories can push the price well beyond $25,000. For owners who need a machine that balances power, durability, and handling without paying for more specialized features, this model justifies its price through its aggressive design and premium build quality. it’s a fair price for the segment, provided you’re looking for a machine designed for serious off-road adventures rather than casual trail riding or work tasks.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the turbocharged 900cc engine paired with a lightweight chassis, making this machine a potent performer on the trail or during high-speed runs. This combination delivers a quick throttle response and enough power to handle steep inclines or tight corners at speed, which is essential for experienced riders pushing the limits.
Designed primarily for enthusiasts who want a machine that excels in aggressive trail riding or dune adventures, this UTV isn’t suited for heavy-duty work or rougher terrain where a more utilitarian model might perform better. Its sport-focused setup means it’s not built for long-distance hauling or hauling heavy loads, so those needs are better served elsewhere. Riders who value precise handling at high speeds will find the X3 X ds TURBO R hits the mark, but it requires attentive maintenance to keep that performance up over time.
The most defining quality of this machine is its turbocharged engine, which transforms the driving experience into something that feels more like a motocross bike with a bed than a traditional utility ATV. This turbo boost can be addictive, but it also demands careful use and regular upkeep to avoid overheating or component stress. If you’re after a machine that delivers quick, exhilarating rides with sharp handling and a true off-road adrenaline rush, this Can-Am model is an ideal choice. If, on the other hand, you need a workhorse or something more relaxed for long hauls, it’s best to look at other options.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X ds 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 weight1490 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 1490 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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