2025 Can-Am Defender Limited vs 2025 Polaris Ranger Northstar

Overview & Introduction

In the world of UTVs, the Can-Am Defender Limited and the Polaris Ranger Northstar represent some of the best of what the industry has to offer in this segment. Their unique blend of comfort and utilitarian features make them excellent choices for both work and play. In this article we’ll take a look at what makes them similar as well as what features set them apart.

 

Comparing Spec Sheets

Below is a side-by-side comparison of their key specifications to help you understand the distinctions and capabilities of each model.

Specification	Can-Am Defender limited	Polaris Ranger Northstar
Engine Type	Rotax® V-twin, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled	ProStar® 999cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Displacement	976 cc	999 cc
Horsepower	82 HP	82 HP
Transmission	PRO-TORQ CVT with Quick Response System	Automatic PVT
Drive System	Smart-Lok™ front differential with multiple modes (2WD/4WD)	True On-Demand AWD/2WD
Fuel Capacity	10.6 gallons	11.5 gallons
Suspension (Front & Rear)	Double A-arm, front: 10 in. travel, rear: 10 in. travel	Dual A-arm with 10 in. travel front and rear
Ground Clearance	14 inches ground clearance	14 inches ground clearance
Wheelbase	83 inches wheelbase	113 inches wheelbase
Dimensions (L x W x H)	126 x 64 x 79 inches (L x W x H)	150 x 64 x 77 inches (L x W x H)
Cargo Bed Capacity	1,000 lbs cargo bed capacity	1,000 lbs cargo bed capacity
Towing Capacity	2,500 lbs towing capacity	2,500 lbs towing capacity
Curb Weight	Approx. 2,004 lbs curb weight	Approx. 2,086 lbs curb weight

 

Performance Comparison

Starting off our comparison with performance - both vehicles produce the same horsepower output clocking in at 82 hp which should be more than enough for any use case whether it be off-road exploration or hauling a payload across a job site.

Can-Am Defender Limited: Powered by an 82 hp Rotax® 976 cc V-twin engine, the Can-Am offers impressive power output with 69 lb-ft of torque. Its PRO-TORQ CVT transmission ensures smooth acceleration, and the Smart-Lok™ differential provides seamless 4WD performance with multiple driving modes, including Turf Mode, 2WD, and 4WD.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: The Polaris Ranger Northstar also packs a punch with its 82 hp ProStar® 999 cc engine, designed for both off-road performance and heavy-duty tasks. It features an automatic PVT transmission and offers On-Demand True AWD, providing flexibility for different terrains. Its liquid-cooled engine keeps it running smoothly even in extreme conditions.

Both vehicles deliver similar horsepower, but differ in how well they can put that power down. The Can-Am’s Smart-Lok differential gives it an edge in difficult off-road situations, while the Polaris Ranger Northstar shines in versatility with its on-demand AWD system.

 

Traction and Off-Road Capability

Both the Polaris Ranger Northstar and the Can-Am Defender Limited have amazing characteristics that make them suitable for handling tough terrain. To understand how well they operate in difficult conditions, let's compare the specs on their traction and off-roading features.

Can-Am Defender Limited: With 30-inch XPS Trac Force tires and 14 inches of ground clearance, the Can-Am Defender is built to tackle any kind of rugged terrain. Whether working on a farm or blasting down some fire trails, the 12 inches of suspension travel coupled with Can-Am’s signature Smart-Lok™ differential system enhance its ability to conquer a wide variety of terrains.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: The Polaris features 29-inch PRO ARMOR X-TERRAIN tires and also offers 14 inches of ground clearance. It comes with 11 inches of suspension travel on both the front and rear, which provides excellent shock absorption over uneven surfaces.

As expected based on their configuration, both vehicles perform exceptionally well off-road, however the Can-Am's slightly larger tires, suspension travel and Smart-Lok technology might make it a better fit for buyers wanting to take on slightly more challenging conditions.

 

Work Utility

Both the Polaris Ranger Northstar and the Can-Am Defender Limited are built to tackle demanding jobs with ease when it comes to work utility. Let's contrast their capacities for towing, carrying a load, and general job performance.

Can-Am Defender Limited: With a towing capacity of 2,500 lbs and a cargo box capacity of 1,000 lbs, the Defender Limited is ready for heavy-duty work. Its 83-inch wheelbase and tight turning radius allow it to maneuver in tight spaces, making it ideal for both farm work and off-road trails.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: The Polaris offers a similar towing capacity of 2,500 lbs and a cargo box that can hold 1,000 lbs, making it just as capable for hauling heavy loads. Its longer wheelbase of 113 inches provides a stable ride, especially with a full load, but might make it a bit less agile than the Can-Am in tight areas.

When it comes to utility, both UTVs are evenly matched in terms of towing and cargo capabilities. The Can-Am’s shorter wheelbase may provide an advantage in tight or confined work environments but the Polaris’s longer wheelbase should make for a more comfortable ride.

 

Cabin Comfort and Ergonomics

One of the standout features for both the vehicles at this trim level is the inclusion of a fully sealed cabin complete with HVAC. This is a notable upgrade over base models as it dramatically increases comfort and reduces driver fatigue when weather conditions are less than ideal.

Can-Am Defender Limited: Beyond the inclusion of a sealed cabin with HVAC, the Defender also features VERSA-PRO bolster bench seats, which offer excellent support and comfort, and additional adjustment points for the driver.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: While also featuring a sealed cabin and HVAC system the Ranger takes its build quality further with premium cut-and-sew seats with contoured seatbacks that provide superior comfort during longer rides, and is also equipped with power windows, a nice addition for its price point.

Both UTVs deliver a ton of value in regards cabin comfort, making them perfect for long work days or extended off-road trips. However, it should be noted that the Polaris’ larger, more spacious cabin might offer a bit more comfort when entering and exiting the vehicle.

 

Instrumentation and Safety

Factory-installed instrument clusters on UTVs have come a long way in recent years with many OEMs opting for larger, more vibrant displays that help riders more easily get the necessary information they are looking for. Here’s a quick comparison showing how these two stack up

Can-Am Defender Limited: The Defender has a 7.6-inch digital display that includes a trip meter, tachometer, and speedometer in addition to other necessary information. To guarantee safety on steep inclines, the vehicle is equipped with brake-holding mechanism and dual 220 mm disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: Equipped with dual-sweep analog dials and a 4-inch LCD Rider Information Center, the Polaris offers a multitude of user-selectable features, such as service indicators, safety alerts, and backlighting. Reliable stopping force is provided by the braking system's 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes with dual-bore front calipers.

While both vehicles are well-equipped in terms of instrumentation and safety, the Can-Am's brake-holding mechanism could be particularly useful in hilly or uneven terrain. However, buyers who don’t need this added mechanism can save some extra dollars and opt for the Ranger instead.

 

Reliability and Customization

Reliability and customizability are important considerations when purchasing a high-end UTV. These are areas where both the Polaris Ranger Northstar and the Can-Am Defender Limited shine, providing strong build quality and an extensive selection of aftermarket extras to further expand their capabilities.

Can-Am Defender Limited: Known for its rugged durability, the Defender Limited is certainly built to tackle any tough job or rugged terrain. The limited trim includes a full front skid plate, XT front bumper, and a high-torque winch rated at 4,500 lbs. The Defender also offers a wide range of aftermarket accessories to enhance both its functionality and appearance.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: The Polaris Ranger is equally reliable, featuring a premium Pro-Shield cab with reinforced bumpers and a Polaris HD 4,500 lb winch. Polaris also offers a robust catalog of aftermarket parts and accessories, from cargo racks to upgraded lighting.

Both models are highly customizable, allowing owners to tailor their UTVs to their specific needs, whether for work or adventure.

 

Pricing and Value

Starting with pricing, the 2025 Polaris Ranger Northstar Edition starts at $27,999 for its single cab variant while the Can-Am Defender Limited comes in a bit higher at $30,199. MSRP on both of the vehicles is exclusive of additional fees such as transportation and preparation.

Can-Am Defender Limited: The Can-Am Defender Limited comes with a base price that typically starts around $27,999. Its premium features like the Smart-Lok system and the robust HVAC setup make it a strong contender in the premium UTV market.

Polaris Ranger Northstar: The Polaris Ranger Northstar has a similar starting price, often around $29,999, reflecting its premium comfort features and advanced technology like the On-Demand AWD system and larger cabin space.

Both vehicles are priced similarly, with slight variations based on added features and accessories.

 

Conclusion: Choosing the Right UTV

To sum things up, both the Polaris Ranger Northstar and the Can-Am Defender Limited provide remarkable comfort, performance, and usefulness for both professionals and enthusiasts. Regardless of which one you choose, your riding experience can be greatly enhanced with the addition of aftermarket accessories available directly from our website. Our vast catalog of accessories are all made with premium fit and finish, safeguarding and enhancing your UTV so that it operates at its peak on every excursion.