UTV Buyer's Guide: Can-Am, Boss orv, Kuwasaki, Isuzu & Polaris

But it can be a tricky business, with equipment and terrain often conspiring against us.

With that in mind, Forestry Journal has taken a look at some of the latest utility and off-road vehicles on the market designed to make getting from A to B as easy as one, two, three.

Can-Am 
New Traxter model 

AS the off-road industry continues its incredible growth, riders of all skill levels crave the best machine for their version of Off-Road Livin’. And Can-Am is once again delivering with its 2022 lineup – from entry level to top performance. With more horsepower, better traction, enhanced comfort, and so much more, Can-Am is rolling into the new model year with some serious swagger.

The Can-Am Maverick lineup of performance off-road vehicles is synonymous with power, handling, and winning. For 2022, Can-Am is upping the ante, becoming the first side-by-side manufacturer to offer a 200 hp engine. That’s a lot of power. And coupled with an all-new pDrive roller clutch system, the entire dynamic changes through quicker acceleration and instant-on power at all times. 

And while the Can-Am Maverick delivers the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, handling remains critical to performance. That is why engineers worked tirelessly to ensure the lineup handles terrain with ease, thanks to Smart-Shox adaptive suspension, new 30- and 32-inch Maxxis Carnivore tyres, a stronger frame, and higher ground clearance and stance. That combination is what makes the Maverick the envy of the competition.

All-New Engine Options

Speaking of power, Can-Am is introducing two new Rotax engines to its lineup – the HD7/700 ACE and the HD9, replacing the HD5, HD8, and 800.

The Rotax HD7 is set to become the new ruler of the lower-hp class. It will be available in the Can-Am Traxter, where it replaces the HD5, with 37 per cent more power, and with a sportier calibration, it will power the Maverick Trail 700. The new engine is optimized for off-road usage, delivering an improved experience with less noise, less vibration, and a cooler environment for passengers, resulting in a more comfortable ride.

And the Rotax HD9 option replaces the HD8 in the Can-Am Traxter lineup. It is a larger, more powerful engine that delivers 30 per cent more horsepower than its predecessor. It promises the same dependability, with even more workability by way of class-leading power and low-end torque.

Traxter line-up improvements (EU Tractor category)

On top of the engine upgrades, Can-Am is fine-tuning its Traxter line-up with the expansion of the ABS on some HD9 and HD10 models. Those models benefit therefore from the innovative Brake and Traction Control System that offers maximum controllability in the toughest riding conditions. Those models fitted with ABS are no longer limited to 60 km/h. With these enhancements across its vehicle lineups, Can-Am is giving all riders what they crave, regardless of whether they live for performance, or are adventurers embarking on their next epic journey.

For more technical details and product specs, as well as information on the complete lineup of Can-Am Off-Road vehicles, visit www.can-am.brp.com/off-road.

Boss orv
Corvus

THE Corvus Terrain range of 4x4 utility vehicles was introduced in the UK in 2019. Since then, the Terrain has gone from strength to strength to create a UTV that adapts to the user and their work environment. 

Corvus, Europe’s first manufacturer of 4x4 side-by-side vehicles, offers an efficient Yanmar diesel engine, market-leading onboard storage capacity and a well-designed full cab option. Now, they have increased the Terrain’s comfort levels with the new CAB CLIMA package. Starting from the current integrated system of doors, air conditioning and heating found on the Terrain DX4, CAB CLIMA improves the vehicle’s working conditions and comfort with a central console to control heat, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). Now you can carry out any task safely protected and isolated from the weather outside, all year round. 

READ MORE: 5 vehicles Forestry Journal reviewed in 2021 every forestry worker needs to consider

The air conditioning system with electronic control is simply operated through the central console with airflow control in three positions. There are front windscreen and anti-fogging diffusers to keep your forward vision clear and safe. There are a total of eight diffusers, four of them able to rotate through 360 degrees.

CAB CLIMA joins the other Terrain high specification levels of full instrumentation, 3-cylinder 993 cc Yanmar diesel engine, which is Stage V emission compliant and gives excellent fuel efficiency and range, and homologation Type T1a/T1b. 

Other standard equipment includes two adjustable seats, skid plate, 4x4/4x2 system, two-point safety belt, adjustable suspension and 244-litre onboard storage with 450 kg cargo box. Pro and cab packages are available together with a range of original manufacturer accessories. The Corvus Terrain models come with a 2-year warranty. 

For more information about the Corvus Terrain range, you can call 01597 810188, e-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk or visit www.bossorv.co.uk.

Kawasaki
Mule/Brute force

THE Kawasaki 2022 utility range features the popular Mule Pro-DX, Mule Pro-DXT, Mule SX 4x4, and Mule Pro-MX vehicles, alongside the Brute Force 4x4i EPS ATV.

The Mule Pro-DX and Mule Pro-DXT remain the flagship vehicles in the range, at the core of each machine lays a three-cylinder, OHV water-cooled, 993 cm³ Bosch fuel injected diesel engine; a feature of particular interest to multi-vehicle users pursuing a ‘single-fuel’ policy. Driving through a dual-range CVT, both vehicles offer selectable 2WD and 4WD delivering 17.8 kW at 3600 rpm and 52.1 Nm (5.3 kgf/m) of maximum torque at 2,400 rpm.

For the Mule Pro-DX, a spacious tipping load bed and impressive towing ability mean that almost no task is too big to ask. The Mule Pro-DXT helps to push the range into new customer bases, thanks to the additional ability to move work crews into difficult or environmentally sensitive locations with minimal impact.

The Mule SX 4x4 relies on a sturdy and ultra-reliable OHV 410 cm³ petrol engine delivering 9.9 kW (13.5 PS) of motive power. Its 500 kg towing capacity and 181 kg load bed maximum are more than enough for many users while such creature comforts as a tilting steering wheel and Independent MacPherson strut front suspension, the SX faithfully delivers all day, every day.

The Mule Pro-MX cuts a real dash with its sprightly turn of speed and automotive styling approach redolent of a sturdy pickup truck. The single-cylinder CVT transmission equipped 695 cm³ engine delivers 32.8 kW (45 PS) for year-round working in even the harshest conditions with the added benefit of electronic power steering as standard fitment.

Completing the 2022 range is the 749 cm³ BRUTE FORCE ATV. 

Featuring the powerful 37.3 kW (51 PS) at 6,750 rpm water-cooled fuel-injected V-Twin engines, a 4x4 drive train and Electronic Power Steering (EPS). The Brute Force 750 is available in Super Black or Camouflage Real Tree Xtra Green.

Visit the Kawasaki website for more information or to find your local Kawasaki dealer.
www.kawasaki.co.uk

Isuzu
D-MAX

THE all-new Isuzu D-Max debuted last year and received rave reviews, evidencing just how much of a rugged and capable companion it is. Launched back in April 2021 with a mammoth UK off-road tour, the new model goes from strength to strength and has gone on to pick up six awards so far.

These include 4x4 Magazine’s Best Value Pick-Up of the Year Award and the prestigious What Van? Pick-Up of the Year Award for 2022.

The Isuzu D-Max range caters for every need and is available in single-, extended- or double-cab body styles, further building on the appeal and flexibility of the range. The Utility features wipe-clean vinyl floor covering, hard-wearing cloth upholstery and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.

The DL20 adds heated front seats, rear parking sensors and 18-inch silver alloy wheels.

Further building on the appealing DL20 comes the DL40 which features a keyless entry and pushbutton start system, dual-zone climate control and reversing camera.

At the top end of the range, the V-Cross adds a 9-inch multimedia system including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility along with an eight-speaker sound system and gunmetal-grey exterior styling.

The new model has helped Isuzu UK power into new territory within the pickup segment by achieving the maximum five-star safety rating in the tough new Euro NCAP test. This UK first for a pickup is in part due to the new Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) fitted as standard across the range.

As part of the ADAS functions, every Isuzu D-Max features Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Manual & Intelligent Speed Limiter, along with Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

All new vehicles also benefit from a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty and five-year roadside assistance for further peace of mind. With a 3.5 tonne maximum towing capacity and 1 tonne payload, the D-Max ticks all the boxes with its impressive capability, durability and reliability and is the smartest, strongest, and safest Isuzu D-Max of all time.

To find out more about the exciting all-new Isuzu D-Max range, head to www.isuzu.co.uk or visit your local dealership.

Polaris
Ranger Diesel

THE Polaris Ranger Diesel was developed and launched specifically for European and Australian markets back in 2019, introducing refined performance with the all-new diesel engine, enhanced ergonomics and an upgraded chassis for a more enjoyable ride, and class-leading capabilities for any job at hand. 

New for 2022, Polaris has introduced the Ranger Diesel Deluxe, combining the same durability, dependability and capability with all-new premium upgrades.

Delivering a premium look and feel, the Ranger Diesel Deluxe is available in a sleek matte titanium finish, along with striking LED headlights. The LED lights deliver 60 per cent more output than the traditional halogen lights for improved visibility in low-light conditions, allowing riders to stay outside for longer to get the job done. The standard steel wheels have been upgraded to new 12-inch black aluminium wheels with 27-inch 6-ply Maxxis tyres.

It’s not just the exterior changes that make the new Diesel more deluxe. Inside, riders will find an upgraded steering wheel with accent trim and premium branding and all-new seats with a contoured fit offering premium refinement, additional bolstering, and next-level comfort.

Fitted directly at the factory, the Ranger Diesel Deluxe comes with a pre-installed 8-vent in-cab heater, an under-seat box for enhanced storage, and a noise-reduction system to create a more comfortable, quieter cab.

For those looking for a smaller mid-size Ranger, Polaris introduces the new Ranger SP 570. A top choice for landowners, estate owners, contractors and forestry organisations for more than a decade, the Ranger mid-size platform now offers rider-inspired features for even more capability, comfort and drivability than ever before. 

It features useful improvements like its 30 per cent larger cargo box for class-leading volume and easy-access loading, as well as its powerful Prostar 570 cc DOHC engine, a retuned clutch for low-speed drivability, quieter in-cab noise and compact width for ultimate comfort and manoeuvrability.

For more information, visit www.polarisbritain.com or contact 0330 041 5146.