Can Am
Picture this: You’re standing at your local powersports dealer, surrounded by gleaming off-road machines, and you’re about to make one of the biggest recreational investments of your life. The 2025 Can-Am Maverick R boasts the highest entry-level price tag for any side-by-side. Just to get in the base model, you’re looking at $35,499 big ones. But here’s what most buyers don’t realize until it’s too late—choosing the wrong Can-Am model could cost you thousands in regret, not to mention countless missed adventures.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior craving adrenaline-pumping trail rides, a landowner needing serious work capability, or someone caught between an ATV and side-by-side decision, this guide cuts through the marketing fluff to deliver real-world insights from actual owners and industry veterans.
You’ll discover which Can-Am models deliver the best bang for your buck, avoid common rookie mistakes that cost buyers dearly, and learn insider secrets that even some dealers won’t tell you. Most importantly, you’ll walk away knowing exactly which Can-Am fits your lifestyle—and your budget.
Can Am Brand Overview: What Makes Them Different {#canam-brand-overview}
Can-Am traces its roots back to 1942 when Joseph-Armand Bombardier founded L’Auto-Neige Bombardier Limitée in Valcourt, Quebec. What started as a garage-based operation creating the first snow vehicles has evolved into BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), a global powerhouse in the powersports industry.
But here’s what separates Can-Am from the pack: they didn’t just follow trends—they created them. Starting in 2007, BRP launched and re-branded its ATV segment to Can-Am. One year after announcing the re-branding, BRP inaugurates its new plant in Juarez, Mexico.
The Rotax Advantage Can Am
Every Can-Am vehicle beats with a Rotax heart, and there’s a reason why. These Austrian-engineered powerplants deliver more torque per cubic inch than most competitors. The HD10 engine is class-leading with 69 lb-ft of torque! It’s not just about raw power—Rotax engines are known for their longevity when properly maintained.
The real kicker? While competitors chase horsepower numbers, Can-Am focuses on usable power delivery. This translates to better throttle response in real-world conditions, whether you’re crawling over rocks or blasting through sand dunes.
Racing Heritage That Matters Can Am
In 2021, Francisco López, Juan Pablo Latrach Vinagre won the first place in the Dakar Rally, held in Saudi Arabia, in the combined Lightweight Vehicle category, as well as the Side-by-Side class. Can-Am was also one of the top 11 finishers in class. In 2022, Can-Am Off-Road scored their fifth consecutive Dakar Rally victory since 2018.
This isn’t just bragging rights—it’s proof of concept. When professional racers trust their lives to Can-Am machines in the world’s toughest race, it speaks volumes about build quality and reliability under extreme stress.
2025 Can Am ATV Lineup: Complete Model Breakdown {#atv-lineup-2025}
The 2025 Can-Am ATV lineup splits into three distinct families, each engineered for specific riding styles and applications. Let’s break down what you’re actually getting for your money.
Outlander Series: The Workhorse Champion Can Am
Outlander puts power and stability on equal footing, for confident handling, the most horsepower & the best hauling of its category. Made to perform in any terrain or season, adaptable to just about any job or off-road use.
Outlander 500/700: Starting around $8,999, these are your entry-level workhorses. It’s the ATV that does it all—for less. Whether you’re looking to tackle the trails or land a load of fish, the Outlander 500/700 is ready when you are.
Outlander PRO Models: Step up to the PRO series if serious work is on your agenda. With an Outlander PRO, you’ll never be outworked. Features like work-calibrated Rotax® engines and CVT and a utility-calibrated suspension mean it’s built to keep going.
Real-World Performance: In testing, the Outlander 850 pulls a 1,500-pound trailer through muddy conditions without breaking a sweat. The CVT transmission excels in low-speed applications, something that electronic transmissions from competitors struggle with.
Renegade Series: Pure Adrenaline Can Am
Renegade picks up where the limits end. The most powerful family of sport ATVs available anywhere, merging race-proven performance & protection to lead the pack through seriously challenging terrain.
This is where Can-Am flexes its performance muscles. The Renegade lineup targets riders who want sport quad capabilities without compromising on reliability. With suspension travel exceeding 10 inches front and rear, these machines eat up rough terrain that would punish lesser ATVs.
Youth Models: The Can-Am Renegade EFI is built for the riders of tomorrow. Spark their passion to ride and make off-road memories with every member of your family. Starting young riders on quality equipment teaches proper riding habits from the beginning.
DS Models: Competition Ready Can Am
For those serious about racing, the DS lineup delivers purpose-built sport quads. These machines sacrifice utility features for outright performance, featuring aggressive suspension geometry and race-proven components.
Side-by-Side Vehicles: Defender vs Maverick vs Commander {#sxs-lineup-analysis}
No job is too tough, no trail too rough for our 2025 Side-by-Sides. The Defender gets the job done, the Maverick dominates any terrain, and the Commander offers unmatched versatility. But choosing between them requires understanding their distinct personalities.
Can Am Defender: The Ultimate Work Machine Can Am
Built extra tough to take you way beyond the daily grind, Defender is the most capable Can-Am Side-by-Side for work. On worksites, hunting trips, in agribusiness & anywhere you need it gets the job done right.
What Sets It Apart: The Defender doesn’t try to be everything to everyone—it’s laser-focused on getting work done. Exclusive full-width under bed storage for cargo, gear, tools, and more. That’s in addition to removable side panels, a dump mechanism, and 100% more loading space than the Defender.
Real Owner Insight: One Texas rancher I spoke with runs three Defenders across 5,000 acres. His take? “These machines start every morning, haul everything I throw at them, and keep going when other brands quit.”
Towing Champions: With capacity up to 3,000 pounds, the Defender 6×6 pulls more than some pickup trucks. This isn’t theoretical—it’s been tested with loaded horse trailers and hay equipment.
Maverick Series: Performance Redefined
The Maverick lineup targets enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on performance. From the trail-ready Maverick Sport to the beast-mode Maverick R, there’s a model for every adrenaline seeker.
Maverick R: The Flagship Unparalleled off-roading performance has arrived. Blast through any terrain and never compromise on power, comfort, connectivity or style. Get outside, get dirty and get riding with the most powerful Can-Am SxS.
This is Can-Am’s halo vehicle, and it shows. The 2025 Can-Am Maverick R boasts the highest entry-level price tag for any side-by-side. Just to get in the base model, you’re looking at $35,499 big ones. But for that investment, you’re getting technology that trickles down from actual race vehicles.
Maverick X3: Proven Performance The 2025 Can-Am Maverick X3 MAX Turbo takes the thrill of high-performance off-roading to new levels with a four-seat configuration. Powered by a turbocharged Rotax engine, this beast delivers adrenaline-pumping speed and unmatched control over rough terrain.
Commander: The Swiss Army Knife Can Am
DO IT ALL. You want to play. You want to work. You want everything in between. You need a legend on wheels. There’s only one machine engineered to make it happen. Honed over refinement and redesign, it’s a true original, as versatile as you are. You need the Can-Am Commander.
The Commander splits the difference between the work-focused Defender and performance-oriented Maverick. With a towing capacity increased to an astounding 2000-lb (907.2 kg) and a category leading 29.5 x 45.2 x 10.6 in. cargo box, it handles both weekend adventures and weekday tasks.
Can-Am vs Competition: How They Stack Up {#competitive-comparison}
The off-road vehicle market is brutally competitive, with Polaris, Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha all vying for your dollars. Here’s how Can-Am really compares when the marketing noise dies down.
Can-Am vs Polaris: The Great Debate
The Can-Am Defender is celebrated for its robust engine options, providing a range of power to suit diverse applications. With engines boasting high horsepower and torque, the Defender is ready to tackle demanding tasks on the worksite or power through challenging off-road trails.
Reliability Reality Check: After having owned a Ranger and a Defender, and after driving each machine back to back for 10 miles at a time, twice, today, I give the win in this category to Can Am, with a score of 6/4. This comes from someone who owned both, not a marketing department.
Suspension Superiority: The Ranger is slightly more plush over low speed rocky terrain, but the Can Am has better suspension at anything over a very slow pace. The Can Am feels more balanced, and overall has a noticeably better suspension.
Can-Am vs Honda: David vs Goliath
Honda built its reputation on bulletproof reliability, but they’ve been slow to innovate in the performance space. Honda is bulletproof and 100 horsepower in something that small feels very fast. However, There’s a reason Polaris and CanAm outsell Honda in the SXS market by at least 10 to 1 and its called performance.
The Power Gap: While Honda focuses on reliability, they’ve lagged in power output. A Honda Talon produces about 100 horsepower while comparable Can-Am models push 150+ horsepower.
Can-Am vs Kawasaki: Engineering Philosophy
The first thing I noticed was how much bigger the clutch was on the krx versus my can am. Sure I was having to replace my weights because I’ve heard the krx weights suck. But as soon as I took the cover off I just started to laugh. Kawasaki likes everything BIGGER.
Kawasaki engineers for durability over finesse. Their KRX models feature oversized components that handle abuse but sacrifice some agility for brute strength.
Component Comparison: Holy smokes! That front diff was crazy in size comparison! I literally laughed out loud watching that! I was sold on the KRX when I first saw one compared to what I’ve seen from the other manufacturers.
Pricing Guide: What You’ll Really Pay Can Am {#pricing-reality-check}
Sticker prices tell only half the story. Here’s what you’ll actually invest when everything’s said and done.
Entry-Level Investment
ATVs: Outlander 500 starts around $8,999, but expect to add $1,500-2,500 for essential accessories like winches, racks, and protection.
Side-by-Sides: Starting at $12,899 for base Defender models, but plan on $15,000-18,000 out the door after taxes, prep, and basic accessories.
Premium Performance Pricing
The 2025 Can-Am Maverick R boasts the highest entry-level price tag for any side-by-side. Just to get in the base model, you’re looking at $35,499 big ones. Top-spec models can exceed $45,000, putting them in luxury car territory.
Hidden Costs Nobody Talks About
- Insurance: Performance models cost 40-60% more to insure than utility models
- Maintenance: Turbocharged models require more frequent service intervals
- Depreciation: High-performance models lose value faster than utility-focused machines
Reliability & Ownership Costs Can Am {#reliability-analysis}
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Can-Am reliability. You’ll hear horror stories and praise songs, but what’s the real story?
The Heat Issue
Yes the v twins do run hot, but keeping the rad clean or doing a relocate seems to solve the issue. Can-Am V-twin engines run warmer than competitors due to EPA emission requirements, but proper maintenance prevents problems.
Real-World Solutions:
- Regular radiator cleaning every 25 hours
- Aftermarket radiator relocate kits for extreme conditions
- Proper break-in procedures (critical for longevity)
Common Problems & Solutions
The brakes will take a 100k’s or so to be fully bedded in so just be patient. In saying that, there are a few people on here that have run out of pads very quickly so keep an eye on them in these early stages.
Brake Issues: Early brake pad wear affects some models. Solution: Avoid excessive foot brake use; rely on engine braking.
CVT Noise: The cvt systems on all can am’s are noisier than other atv’s. It will probably get better as you put more k’s on the clock. This is normal, not a defect.
Maintenance Reality
Annual Costs: Budget $800-1,200 annually for routine maintenance on utility models, $1,200-1,800 for performance models.
DIY vs Dealer: Basic maintenance is straightforward, but warranty requires dealer service for major issues.
Best Can Am for Different Uses {#model-recommendations}
Best for Beginners Can Am
Outlander 500: Manageable power, predictable handling, reasonable price. Perfect for learning proper riding techniques without overwhelming new riders.
Best for Work Can Am
Defender HD10: The HD10 engine is class-leading with 69 lb-ft of torque! Maximum towing capacity, reliable starting, and robust construction make this the ranch hand favorite.
Best for Trail Riding Can Am
Maverick Sport: Balanced power and handling for recreational trail riding. Wide enough for stability, narrow enough for tight trails.
Best for Performance Can Am
Maverick R: Unparalleled off-roading performance has arrived. Blast through any terrain and never compromise on power, comfort, connectivity or style. If budget allows, this is the ultimate expression of Can-Am engineering.
Best Value Can Am
Commander 700: Versatile enough for work and play, priced reasonably, proven reliability. The Goldilocks machine that’s “just right” for many buyers.
Buying Tips: Negotiation & Financing Can Am {#buying-strategies}
Dealer Markup Reality Can Am
Expect 10-15% markup on popular models, especially performance machines. Last chance to get our 2024 units! Save up to $5,000 or get financing as low as 0,99% for 36 months on select 2024 SxS & ATV models.
Best Times to Buy Can Am
- Late fall: Dealers clear inventory for new model years
- Mid-winter: Lowest demand period in most regions
- Model year transitions: Previous year models offer significant savings
Financing Strategies
Manufacturer financing often beats bank rates, especially during promotional periods. However, read the fine print—some promotional rates require extended warranties or accessories.
Essential Accessories Budget Can Am
Plan 20-30% of purchase price for must-have accessories:
- Winch (essential for utility models)
- Roof and windshield
- Skid plates and rock guards
- Upgraded tires for specific terrain
Common Problems & Solutions {#troubleshooting-guide}
Overheating Prevention
i carry a spare just incase it fails, no after some easy riding up in dwight my front differential is making a noise, 14 km from the cabin,, luckily i was able to drive it out in 2 wheel drive
Prevention Strategy:
- Clean radiator every 25 hours
- Check coolant levels monthly
- Avoid prolonged idle in hot conditions
- Consider radiator relocation for extreme use
Belt Life Extension
CVT belts last 1,000-3,000 miles depending on use. Extend life by:
- Proper warm-up procedures
- Avoiding aggressive starts from stops
- Regular clutch cleaning
- Using recommended belt specifications
Electrical Gremlins Can Am
high low light switch melted inside were the spring is,, brake switch when you start in gear, ignition switch is acting up
Most electrical problems stem from moisture intrusion. Prevention:
- Dielectric grease on all connections
- Regular inspection of wire harnesses
- Proper storage in dry conditions
Frequently Asked Questions – Can Am{#faq-section}
Are Can-Am vehicles reliable?
Personally, we’re on our 3rd Can-Am and have only had minor issues with any of them. Same with Polaris machines we’ve had. Nothing major went wrong. Reliability depends heavily on maintenance and usage patterns. Follow service intervals and most owners enjoy trouble-free operation.
How long do Can-Am engines last?
With proper maintenance, Rotax engines routinely exceed 5,000 hours. my 650 outlander has 359 hours and 2453 miles, so something to think about Commercial users report 8,000+ hours on well-maintained utility models.
Should I buy new or used?
New vehicles offer warranty protection and latest features, but used models offer better value. Avoid first-year models of new designs; let others work out the bugs.
What’s the best Can-Am for hunting?
Defender models excel for hunting due to quiet operation, excellent towing capacity, and utility focus. The Defender MAX accommodates gear and passengers for extended trips.
How much should I budget for maintenance?
Plan $800-1,200 annually for utility models, $1,200-1,800 for performance models. This includes oil changes, filters, belts, and routine inspections.
Can I finance accessories with the vehicle?
Most dealers offer accessory financing through manufacturer programs. This can simplify purchasing but may not offer the best rates for small accessory packages.
What warranty comes with Can-Am vehicles?
Standard warranty varies by model but typically includes 2 years limited warranty. Extended warranties available but read coverage details carefully.
Are Can-Am parts expensive?
Genuine Can-Am parts cost more than aftermarket alternatives but offer better fit and finish. Many routine maintenance items have competitive aftermarket options.
How do I choose between ATV and side-by-side?
A SxS or UTV will be best for you if you’re a less experienced rider who will be more comfortable with familiar car-like operating controls, prefer a less physically demanding style of riding required by an ATV, want to carry passengers, or for whom safety is a top priority and would like seatbelts and a roll cage.
What’s the resale value like?
Can-Am vehicles hold value well, especially utility-focused models. Performance models depreciate faster but maintain strong demand in the used market.
Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits
Choosing the right Can-Am isn’t just about horsepower numbers or flashy features—it’s about finding the machine that matches your lifestyle, budget, and adventure goals. Whether you’re drawn to the work-ready Defender, the versatile Commander, or the adrenaline-pumping Maverick, you’re investing in a legacy of innovation that traces back to a small garage in Quebec.
The key takeaway? Don’t let analysis paralysis keep you from getting out there. Yup….the most important one……..get out there and enjoy that thing!!!!!! Every Can-Am model offers capabilities that would have seemed impossible just a decade ago.
Ready to take the next step? Visit your local Can-Am dealer for a test ride, but remember—once you experience that Rotax power delivery and legendary Can-Am capability, you’ll understand why so many riders become lifelong enthusiasts.
Your adventure is waiting. The only question left is: which Can-Am will take you there?
