Everything you use has a natural life span. Whether it’s a lawn mower that will eventually rust to death or a 30-year-old wrench that will probably last another 30 years, everything has its limits. The longer it lasts and the more abuse it can take, the more reliable it is. Reliability is even more important when considering UTVs. They are tasked with doing what few other cars can do, going off-road. Anything can happen the moment you step off the path into uncharted territory.
So reliability is a huge factor when it comes to UTVs. Polaris has quite a reliable line-up. People seem to forget that UTVs in general require more maintenance compared to other vehicles. With proper maintenance, even Polaris UTVs can last a lifetime.
Polaris is up there with the best like Honda and Yamaha when it comes to UTVs due to their high reliability. And the powerful performance potential of some models. With proper maintenance, a Polaris can last you a lifetime. So let’s check out a few Polaris UTVs and their reliability.
Also read: Who Owns Polaris, And What are Their Subsidiaries?
Polaris Ranger XP 1000
Coming out in 2018 the Ranger XP 1000 was a comeback for the 2018 Can-Am Defender. Either matching or coming on top with all the 2018 Can-Am Defender’s specs. With a 999cc 82 horsepower engine, this side-by-side is a workhorse. With a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds, the Ranger XP1000 is great for towing trailers.
The Ranger 1000 is super quiet as well even while it’s at max towing capacity which makes it great for work with livestock.
If you’re going off-road into mud trails the Ranger 1000 does hit its speed limit so if you want
more ponies under the hood opting for the XP version is a good choice. Most of Polaris’ off-road UTVs come with at least half doors but the Ranger 1000 and the XP both only come with the side netting although the half doors can be added at additional cost.
If you plan or need to use the Ranger as a snow-plowing machine, it’s pretty simple since the Polaris plowing system attaches directly to the frame. Which makes the work so simple and easy. The basic Polaris PXT tires offer good traction on any kind of surface as well.
With proper care the reliability of the Ranger 1000 is impressive and due to the popularity of the model replacement parts are cheap and easy to find.
Also read: 10 x Most Common Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.4
“I have worked, played, relaxed, cruised, went to woods, lake, to lunch with my wife, and introduced my 1-year-old Granddaughter to a little ride too. So far so fun! Couldn’t ask for more.”
Pros And Cons Ranger XP 1000
Pros
- Offers great versatility as both a workhorse and an off-roader
- Great towing capacity
- Great for rocky terrain with 13” of ground clearance
- The engine is very smooth and quiet
Cons
- Speed limiter of about 60 mph in the base version
- Comes with mesh doors, doors can be added at an extra cost
- Small tires make handling difficult
- Cab electronics are glitchy
Recalls
- Throttle pedals can return to the idle position more slowly than anticipated when the pedal is released or they can stick in the depressed position, posing a crash hazard. (2020-2021 Ranger 1000)
- The drive belt can break during operation and damage the inner clutch cover assembly and fuel line, posing a fire hazard (2020-2021)
- The steering wheel can lock if the steering shaft fasteners are not torqued correctly, posing a crash hazard (2020-2021)
- An incorrectly manufactured clutch component can cause the engine braking feature to fail (2019-2020)
Overall View Ranger XP 1000
The high-performance XP1000 offers best-in-class ground clearance, long-travel suspension, and car-level interior performance, but build quality is a bit disappointing and has an unsettling habit of going out of control while going downhill.
Also read: Polaris vs Can-Am, The Ultimate Comparison!
Polaris Ranger 570
The Ranger 570 comes with a smaller cabin size and engine than the Ranger 1000. But its smaller size enables it to work in tight spaces. It also provides a very tight turn radius. The smaller 44 horsepower engine of the 570 gives it a top speed of about 40 to 50 mph but if you manage to remove the speed limiter it can go to an excess of 60 mph
Weighing approximately 1,250 pounds, it is a light vehicle and in comparison to weight, it has a good towing capacity. The ranger 570 can tow up to 1,500 pounds and carry up to 800 pounds in the drop box. The gas assists to the drop box also prove helpful when carrying heavy loads.
The 567cc engine really packs a punch and is great for trail riding. Its speed is surprising for its size and it can handle muddy trails pretty well although mud does tend to get into the internal areas of the vehicle which makes it a hassle to clean. Engine problems are also a bit too common which cause backfires or power loss.
Overall with good care, it is a great machine but reliability is a bit disappointing with problems being very common. You might have to think twice before you get your hands on one.
Also read: 5 x Most Common Polaris Ranger 570 Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.4
“I really enjoy the Ranger. Hooking my log splitter up to it hauling wood in it and also my children and I enjoy it for pleasure riding in the woods as well. I have only one complaint… Sometimes it doesn’t engage in reverse right away. Other than that, we have been extremely satisfied”
Pros And Cons Ranger 570
Pros
- Great power for size
- Small sizes enable striding in smaller spaces and tight turns
- Light when compared with most UTVs
- Easy access spots for maintenance
Cons
- Mud gets in hard to get spots under the vehicle
- The frequency of problems is high
- The Centre of gravity is high, with higher chances of falling over
- The suspension is stiff
- The gear selector doesn’t engage in reverse right away
Recalls
- Overheating causes a fire hazard (2015)
- Front lower control arms can separate, posing a crash hazard (2018)
Overall View Ranger 570
The Ranger 570 is a powerhouse in a small package and is great for trail riding, but at the end of the day, it can’t boast about being reliable.
Polaris Ranger 500
The Ranger 500’s single-cylinder, 500cc ProStar engine has proven to be reliable and relatively easy to maintain, but its performance isn’t going to knock any socks off. 32 horsepower is enough for a machine that only weighs 1,065 pounds dry, but it’s still not that powerful. It’s easy to overlook the Ranger 500 in terms of performance considering the Ranger 570 only costs a few hundred dollars more and is powered by a 44-horsepower engine.
The Ranger 500 at 58 inches wide, is wide enough to be competent, but it’s geared toward work rather than entertainment. However, its relatively light and compact size makes it a good combination for turning around trees or on narrow roads.
The Ranger 500 was made with a focus on using it for work purposes. It comes with an open doorway and comfortable interior and also with a seating position that is good and purposeful for work intentions.
Unlike the Ranger 570, the reliability of the Ranger 500 is certainly something to boast about and the comfort enables it to be comfortably rideable for multiple hours at a time.
Also read: 6 Most Common Polaris Ranger 500 Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.5
“I use my Ranger for hunting, traveling around the sporting clay course, and joy riding. So far it has been serviceable. It’s not the biggest or fanciest machine out there but it gets the job done with the features I want. I wish some of the accessories were standard but overall I’m pleased with it.”
Pros And Cons Ranger 500
Pros
- It fits in a full-bed pickup truck
- Only weighs about a thousand pounds
- Healthy towing capacity for its size
- Great for working
Cons
- Less power for the price range
- You could opt for the more powerful Ranger 570 for a few hundred more
- Handling is tough
- Lacks seating space since it’s more focused on cargo
Recalls
- Front lower control arms can separate, posing a crash hazard (2018)
Overall View Ranger 500
It’s a purposeful machine that gets the job done on a relatively small, light, and low-power package. Given that it is light and small, it can pull quite a bit with decent towing capacity. Although the engine puts out just 32 horsepower, it should still be convincing on tight roads.
Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000
Modeled after taking in suggestions and comments from the base Ranger XP 1000. The crew XP 1000 features a one-piece frame which makes the machine much more rigid and increases wing capacity. The crew comes with an impressive towing capacity of 2,500 pounds.
The Ranger crew XP 1000 has the same engine as the Ranger XP 1000 which comes with a 999cc 82 horsepower engine. The crew comes with higher ground clearance and much better tires which offer remarkable traction. They have also made the crew more stable than the ranger XP 1000.
The interior is also made better with thicker padding and more long-lasting and durable seats. The machine is very powerful, smooth, and handles great. Also with proper maintenance, this machine can last you a decade of wear and tear.
Also read: 7 x Most Common Polaris Ranger Crew Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.4
“I use my Ranger almost every day to go to work and or wheeling. It’s the most fun and powerful machine I have ever had. There’s not much it won’t do. I love it.”
Pros And Cons Ranger Crew XP 1000
Pros
- Quiet riding
- Power delivery is smooth and well controllable
- Steering precision is good because of better traction
- Great for both work and play
Cons
- Stock comes with mesh doors
- The large size makes it hard to maneuver in tight trails
- Seats cannot be reclined
- The suspension is a bit stiffer than other models
Recalls
- An incorrectly manufactured clutch component can cause the engine braking feature to fail (2019-2020)
- The drive belt can break during operation and damage the inner clutch cover assembly and fuel line, posing a fire hazard (2020-2021)
Overall View Ranger Crew XP 1000
With great power and handling and an amazing payload, the Ranger Crew XP 1000 is a true jack of all trades.
Polaris Ranger EV – XP Kinetic
The Ranger EV, now renamed to Kinetic, comes with a 48-volt high-efficiency AC induction motor that gives 30 horsepower. This isn’t much but considering it’s all-electric it’s not bad.
The direct drive transmission uses “quiet gear” which makes the Ranger EV much quieter than a conventional gasoline engine. There are three power modes. high for high-speed driving, low for climbing and towing; Max gives you the maximum range.
Polaris claims the Ranger EV can go 35 to 45 miles on a single full charge. Of course, this depends on the purpose you’re using it for. The Ranger EV delivers great amounts of torque at low speed.
Also read: Most Common Polaris Ranger EV Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.3
“I use my ranger to tour and maintain my fencing, monitor for security, and generally “keep track “ of my property. I enjoy observing wildlife on my property and the ranger’s quiet travel enhances the experience.”
Pros And Cons Ranger EV – Kinetic
Pros
- The engine is super quiet
- Is totally eco-friendly with zero emissions
- The small size makes it maneuverable in tight spaces
- Can be charged on a normal outlet at home
Cons
- Low payload and capacity
- Least powerful of all the models
- The range is pretty limited
- Much slower than other side by sides
Recalls
- Front lower control arms can separate, posing a crash hazard (2018)
Overall View Ranger EV – Kinetic
The Ranger EV continues to be a mini workhorse. This zero-emission vehicle is ideal for driving during the day and charging at night. this won’t disturb anyone due to its quiet and eco-friendly nature. Due to its limited battery range, the Ranger EV might not be long-distance riding.
Polaris RZR 200
A vehicle made only for fun the RZR 200 boasts 180 ccs which can propel the vehicle to up to 30 mph which is great for its class. The body of the side-by-side is made with hard plastics that are made to last and keep its passengers safe.
The relatively low center of gravity helps the RZR 200 maneuver, and the 10-inch ground clearance allows riders to easily maneuver around obstacles. Double A-arms up front and independent rear suspension keep things in check.
The safety systems of the RZR 200 are incredible with an app that tells you exactly where the machine is. It also comes with a feature that doesn’t allow anyone to drive without a helmet. Plus it comes with speed limiters that you can control and also you can set a passcode to start the vehicle. Since this model is made for juniors its safety systems are very reliable.
Also read: 5 x Most Common Polaris RZR 170 Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.2
“Nice little unit but the dislikes are it should have a gage to show speed and hours at least. And the turning ratio is terrible and the reverse could be a little faster. The tiny tires could be upgraded from the factory.”
Pros And Cons RZR 200
Pros
- Great to hand down your passion to your kids
- Safety features are incredible
- Great experience for kids
- The incredibly durable body keeps the vehicle and driver safe in case of collision
Cons
- Does not come with 4-wheel drive
- Small engine size
- Lower power and speed because of kid-friendliness
- Not suitable to carry or tow payloads
Recalls
- Fuel leaks coming into contact with wiring pose a fire hazard (2015-2017)
Overall View RZR 200
This a great machine for parents looking to introduce their kids to the world of side-by-sides. It also comes with top-notch safety and durability to handle all the trouble the kids put it through.
Polaris RZR XP 1000
Another installment of the powerful Polaris 1000cc engine comes in the form of the Polaris RZR XP 1000. Since its debut in 2014, it has evolved a lot in the past few years. The power increases with the trim levels, but whatever year or trim you get, you will be able to get over 100 horsepower out of your engine.
Forget about the power, the suspension of the RZR XP 1000 is praiseworthy. The dual A-arm Walker Evans suspension offers a smooth ride, no matter how rough the trail gets. You also get over 14 inches of ground clearance.
Though bigger might not always be better, in the case of the RZR XP 1000, it dominates its competitors by being bigger. It’s equipped with a big engine, big tires, a bigger cockpit with more leg room, and bigger and better suspension
The RZR 1000 is primarily built for the trail. It is a beast when you take it offroad, but it still can handle your chores as well. Especially with the comfortable suspension on more cabin room, it might fit well at your workplace.
Also read: 8 x Most Common Polaris RZR Pro XP Problems!
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.4
“This is my second RZR 1000 Trails & Rock we have bought in a year. This SxS is amazing. The ride is very smooth, the power at the top end is amazing and the SxS will go anywhere using the low gear. Just a very fun enjoyable ride.”
Pros And Cons RZR XP 1000
Pros
- Bigger wheels and rims
- Comfortable and safe setup with quality seat belts and roll cage
- Great towing capacity
- Can perform in any terrain
Cons
- Radiator gets clogged
- Lack of cargo space
- Clutch issues
- Cheap build quality
Recalls
- The steering wheel can separate causing a loss of control (2020-2022 RZR XP1000)
- Missin belt stitching poses an injury hazard (2015 and 2017-2020)
Overall View RZR XP 1000
The RZR 1000xp rolls out of the factory as a stylish sports UTV. So if you are looking for a UTV primarily to go through rough trails and off-roading adventures, the RZR 1000XP is a great choice. It is a bit pricey to be used as a workhorse but it will get the job done.
Polaris RZR Pro
The Polaris RZR Pro is a high-end UTV. Prices start at more than $30,000 and can go upwards of $50,000 depending on the trim and additional accessories.
RZR Pro trims differ considerably from one another. The Polaris RZR Pro XP is one of the rare UTVs to come with a factory-long travel kit. It boasts a width of 72 inches as it rolls out of the factory. And then we have the Polaris RZR Pro R, which is equipped with the industry’s first 2L engine. With it, it can generate around 225 horsepower, which is much more than many cars we see today.
Though the machine can produce immense power, it does not exactly bode well for work. There is a significant increase in towing capacity or payload capacity.
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.2
“This is the best machine I’ve owned so far. Fast, lots of wheel travel, smooth riding, and best handling. Very sleek design. Most comfortable seats I’ve sat in. My only complaint is the lack of storage. For the price of my sport, you’d at least think Polaris could afford to include the center dash glove box/storage.”
Pros And Cons RZR Pro
Pros
- Variety of trims to choose from
- Built for racing and off-roading
- The 29+ inch stock tires come in handy when off-roading
- Strong frame and body
Cons
- Very high starting price
- The less powerful engine has trouble rock crawling as the gears aren’t low enough
- Clutch issues
- Suspension wears off quickly
Recalls
- Oil leaks posing a fire hazard (2021 RZR Pro XP)
- Primary clutch failure (2021 RZR Turbo)
- Fuel leak at the fuel pump assembly joint posing a fire hazard (2021-2022 RZR Pro)
- Prolonged contact of the battery cable with the prop shaft may result in an electrical short, posing a fire hazard (2022 RZR Pro)
- An incorrect spring retainer could affect the handling and stability of the vehicle, posing a potential rollover hazard. (2020 Pro XP)
- Missin belt stitching poses an injury hazard (2015 and 2017-2020)
Overall View RZR Pro
This machine is only for the serious off-roaders. Spending $30,000 for this to get farm work done is not a good idea. But for racing and off-roading, this is one of the best machines out there
Polaris RZR Trail
Polaris has always been creative with the UTVs they’ve put out on the road. The RZR Trail is another unique machine to come out of the Polaris lineup. With a width of 50 inches and weighing under 1000 pounds, this is an ideal UTV to drive around narrow trails.
The RZR Trail is powered by a 900cc twin-cylinder engine which can produce 75 horsepower. Though the numbers are a bit small, it is much lighter than other Polaris UTVs. Maintaining the rig is also easy.
Comes built with doors and a roof to keep mud and dirt out of the interior. Even though the rig appears tiny in front of its siblings, it still has ample room inside the cockpit.
This is specifically built for tight woody trails where being small is a huge bonus. Plus the tight turn radius offered by the RZR Trail comes in handy when navigating this type of terrain.
Overall Customer Rating And Review
User rating ➡️ 4.2
“My RZR allows me the freedom to explore far and wide! From dried lake beds to dense forests, it can get me there.”
Pros And Cons RZR Trail
Pros
- Ample power from the 900cc engine
- Ideal for narrow trails with its small size and tight turn radius
- Good fuel efficiency
- Good ground clearance (almost 11 inches) for its size
- One of the cheapest UTVs out their
- Easy to carry on a truck bed
Cons
- Not enough room to carry cargo
- Electrical problems are common
- Not the sturdiest frame
- Subpar fit and finish
Recalls
- Engine misfires cause exhaust temperatures to rise (2016)
Overall View RZR Trail
If you are riding through woody trails, this is one of the best options for you. Even if that’s not the case, this small UTV packs a punch. It has ample power and is decent at off-roading. Plus, it is easy to transport which is a huge bonus. If you are looking for a small ride that’ll get you from point A to point B, this is the one for you.
Images: Polaris ORV Media
Reviews and ratings: Polaris Ranger reviews & ratings and Polaris RZR reviews & ratings
