Ten Most Popular Utv's (Side X Sides) of 2016

2016 was quite the year for the side by side UTV market, good and not-so good.

We saw a huge uptick in this segment growth by numbers, accessories, communities and clubs.

So much so that it’s grabbed the attention of several manufacturers to step up their game on performance, make some new models and even some government agencies to support the growing number of riders taking their rides out for some off-road fun.

As a company we’ve supported and volunteered our time and resources with riding trails, sand dunes and national forests to keep riding areas open for our community. Most of the support and growth was in the Southwest market but by the numbers, it’s the largest growing segment nationwide for many dealers carrying this product.

1. Polaris RZR XP (2 & 4) 1000

Surprise, Surprise… for the entire calendar year of 2016 counting for sales data and despite the recall announcements later in the year, the Polaris RZR line has defined the side-by-side market when it comes to recreational vehicles and turned the entire segment on its head. Specifically the RZR XP 1000 models, they outsell their competition by 5:1. Owning a RZR is now a lifestyle in itself for those who seek social adventure. With this 4-seater RZR, off-road enthusiasts will be able to share their lifestyle with their friends or family too. It's the ultimate outdoor adventure vehicle. We sold so many we decided to combine the 2 and 4 seat models into the top ranked spot on our list. 

2. Polaris RZR XP (2 & 4) TURBO

This is another hot selling UTV from Polaris, take the RZR XP 1000, install a ton of tougher driveline, engine, transmission upgrades and install a turbo and intercooler that produces more horsepower and you have the thrill seekers wet dream. The power was boosted for the 2016 model with a brand-new 144 hp and is even more for the new 2017 models. The 2 and 4 seat RZR Turbo models take the 2nd spot in the most popular list and we only see it growing more year over year. 

3. Yamaha YXZ1000

This is the first time the SXS will be manual and comes with an UTV segment first, 5-speed transmission with sequential shifting. It does everything possible to make four-wheels just as much fun as two. It is competitive and aggressive for any two-wheel enthusiast, and has the ability to shift through gears with ease. The motor is a 998 cc liquid-cooled DOHC 3-cylinder inline and can produce 112 hp. The engine model was taken from their snowmobile division which also has some aftermarket turbos which range from 150-300 hp. The YXZ became an early favorite for us and are glad to see Yamaha back in the side by side arena fighting for the top spot. 

4. Polaris RZR 4 900 EPS

The little brother to the RZR XP models surprisingly takes the 4th spot in our list, mostly due to their price and not-so-aggressive power and suspension. Some folks don’t want the extra expense or horsepower but still want a very versatile, slightly smaller and easier to handle platform. Why the 4 seater? It will depend on is how necessary you deem the additional carrying capacity. Some people believe the extra capacity is quite the luxury. The longer wheelbase also helps enhance the duning experience overall. Bring your family with you; just make sure you abide by the age rules by the machine and state laws of backseat passengers. 

5. Honda Pioneer 1000-5

Their flagship Pioneer has everything that you will need when it comes to multi-purpose UTV's. Its stout chassis can carry 1,000 pounds worth of cargo and tow as much as 2,000 pounds because of its 999cc power plant and the first six-speed, fully automatic, DCT (dual-clutch transmission). 

The finish and fit is quite remarkable and features a self-leveling suspension, tilt steering wheel, Quick Flip rear seating, EPS (Electronic Power Steering), sports mode, and paddle shifters, not to mention a locking front differential and a turf mode which makes it a front runner in this segment. It's quite clear that Honda is now starting to flex its muscles in this segment. We are excited to see what Honda comes out with in the all-sport segment to compete with the Polaris RZR, Yamaha YXZ and all new Can-Am Maverick X3. 

6. Polaris Ranger Crew XP 900-6 EPS

This UTV is available in both 5 and 6 seat designs with all of the features that you could imagine including EPS (electronic power steering), cast aluminum wheels, cut and sew seats, automotive paint, and an adjustable driver seat. Plus, it has a pro-lock on-demand AWD for almost instant engagement of the four wheels when additional traction is required. It's available in Sunset Red, Polaris Pursuit Camo, Velocity Blue, and Titanium Matter Metallic. No wonder this “truck” made our list; it’s very popular among people who want a good blend of fun and function. Hunters will swear by them get to those hard to reach places. 

7. Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo

Late to the game in 2016, this is the highest ever performance UTV released by Can-Am till date and is destined to make the Polaris guys look at Can-Am’s a little longer. It comes with an all-new suspension and improved engine performance which makes for quite an exhilarating ride on the dunes. Just announced this In February 2017, the 4 seat model (Maverick X3 Max) should put the X3 line at the top of this list very soon. 

8. Polaris General 1000

This is a cross between a Ranger and the RZR blend. Using a 999 cc 100 hp fuel injected engine it delivers power for working hard, but can be a great trail machine too. The suspension travel is over 13 in the back and 12.25 in the front giving it enough rough confidence on the trail. The shocks are the FOX Podium 2.0 which handles their responsibilities with ease. It's a great setup for fast paced trails. Simple three-position shock adjusters will take all of the guesswork out of finding your ride quality preference too all while hauling a heavy load in the dump bed. 

9. Polaris Ranger XP 900 EPS

Polaris’s longest running UTV segment keeps improving every year and the latest model editions can come in a variety of different configurations with 3-6 seats (see above) from 500-1000 cc engines and every color of the rainbow. But, this 900 EPS is the best model in their Ranger line for sure. The Sage Green and Solar Red colors are awesome. The vehicle has terrific suspensions and tons of room and makes any days hard work an easier one on the ranch. 

10. Yamaha Viking VI

These vehicles are right on track for hunting and fall-harvest seasons. With the class-leading room in the cab and the unparalleled comfort mixed with impressive handling and off-road capabilities, they are the toughest and most hardworking utility-based vehicles which are fun to drive too. It received a number of updates too this year including a quieter cabin and reinforced chassis. Yamaha has made a commitment to its fan base, since stopping production on the long favored Rhino, they now offer the YXZ, Wolverine and Viking models and has committed to coming out with more segment specific lines up until 2020.