Not content to rest on its laurels, Polaris has unveiled its off-road lineup for 2012 and that includes a couple of new models-the Ranger Crew Diesel and Ranger RZR 570 (we previewed this model last week here: http://www.dirttoysmag.com/powersport-news/display.cfm?ID=105-and a new engine-the 850 Twin, EFI, High Output.
Seeing as there is so much to cover, we'll hit the side by sides today and the ATVs tomorrow.
Before we get to the nuts and bolts of the changes for 2012, here's a look at what Polaris is offering in the side by side segment.
2012 RANGER MODELS
FULL SIZE
Ranger XP 800
Ranger XP 800 EPS
New EBS Ranger HD 800
Ranger 6x6 800
Ranger Diesel
MIDSIZE
Ranger 500 EFI
Ranger 400
Ranger EV
MULTI-PASSENGER
Ranger Crew 800
Ranger Crew 800 EPS
New Ranger Crew Diesel
Ranger Crew 500
2012 RANGER RZR MODELS
Only Trail
Updated Ranger RZR 800
Only Performance
Updated Ranger RZR S 800
Only 4-Seat Sport
Updated Ranger RZR 4 800
Updated Ranger RZR 4 800 EPS Robby Gordon Edition
Only Xtreme Performance
Updated Ranger RZR XP 900
For model year 2012, Polaris continues its trend of aggressive new model launches by introducing two new side-by-side models, making significant upgrades to existing products and having a couple surprises through the year.
"Polaris has become the industry leader by aggressively introducing new products and continuing to innovate our product lines," Matt Homan, vice president and general manager of Polaris' Off-Road Division, said. "Model year 2012 will be no different. "From the hardest working, smoothest riding off-road utility vehicles and ATVs, to side-by-sides built for razor sharp performance, Polaris offers the most complete line-up of off-road vehicles on the market."
When it comes to side-by-side models, Polaris offers a variety of vehicles available in full-size, midsize and multi-passenger models. For 2012, the multi-passenger line-up gets a new member with the introduction of the Ranger Crew Diesel. The new Ranger Crew Diesel will have all the attributes of the Ranger Crew 800 but with an ISO-mounted Yanmar diesel powerplant. New in the full-size segment for 2012, the Ranger HD 800 will be equipped with the Polaris Engine Braking System (EBS) for optimum downhill control and smooth, even deceleration during descents. Polaris also will offer several limited edition models across the full-size, midsize and multi-passenger segments including Ranger XP 800, Ranger 500 EFI and Ranger Crew 800 models.
To build off the Ranger RZR XP 900's success, for 2012, the company took xtreme performance features first introduced on the Ranger RZR XP 900 and added them across the line.
Features found on the Ranger RZR XP 900 that will be added to the Ranger RZR 800, Ranger RZR S 800 and Ranger RZR 4 800 include a front drive cage made from zinc for added durability, a durable dual clutch inlet for low and high speed cooling, improved fit and finish in the cockpit and a 33 percent thicker skid plate. The entire line also will feature a new passenger grab bar tube with an anti-rattle bushing for reduced noise. The xtreme performing Ranger RZR XP 900 also will feature a redesigned front suspension geometry for less steering effort, increased maneuverability at slow speeds, convenient, adjustable Fox 2.0 shocks and a rubber isolated prop shaft for less driveline noise.
Several Ranger RZR XP 900, Ranger RZR 800, Ranger RZR S 800 and Ranger RZR 4 800 limited edition models also will be available.
2012 Polaris Ranger Utility Side-By-Sides
The Ranger line, with its flagship Ranger XP 800 model, continues to be the leading side-by-side brand in the world due to hardest working attributes such as powerful engines, On-Demand True All-Wheel drive, monstrous towing and large dump boxes coupled with smooth riding features such as Independent Rear Suspension, high ground clearance and superior ergonomics.
For Model Year 2012, Polaris continues to build on the success of the Ranger brand with the addition of the Polaris Engine Braking System (EBS) on the Ranger HD 800 and the introduction of the new Ranger Crew Diesel.
The Ranger HD 800 is the pure utility work horse of the Ranger full-size line with its self-leveling, Nivomat rear shocks, Electronic Power Steering and all the attributes that made Ranger the hardest working, smoothest riding vehicles on the market. For 2012, the Ranger HD 800 brings the addition of Polaris' Engine Braking System (EBS) to make it work even harder. The Polaris EBS controls downhill braking to give you optimum control and smooth, even deceleration during descents, making carrying large loads even easier. For 2012, the Ranger HD 800 will be available in Sage Green.
Other full-size models offered for 2012 include the Ranger XP 800 in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo; the Ranger XP 800 EPS in Sage Green and Solar Red; the Ranger Diesel in Sage Green; and the Ranger 6x6 800 in Sage Green and Solar Red. The Ranger XP 800 Limited Editions include Magnetic Metallic, Pearl White, Boardwalk Blue and the first-ever Ranger XP 800 with a shock package, the Ranger XP 800 Walker Evans edition. The Ranger XP 800 EPS Limited Editions include Sunset Red and Browning Edition Pursuit.
In 2011, Polaris entered the diesel side-by-side segment, with the introduction of the new Ranger Diesel. The Ranger Diesel shared the same full-size chassis as the Ranger XP 800 with the same attributes that made the Ranger line the hardest working, smoothest riding
vehicles on the market. For 2012, Polaris is introducing its second diesel model and third vehicle to its multi-passenger line up, the Ranger Crew Diesel. To work harder, Polaris has added its Engine Braking System (EBS) to the Ranger HD 800.
The Ranger Crew Diesel shares the same 904cc, three-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine as the Ranger Diesel, with the ability to carry six adults in total comfort. The engine is rubber-mounted to transfer minimal vibration to the operator and provides low-speed torque to work harder. The fully-sealed, fixed center distance clutch driveline keeps water out of the clutches and provides better performance than competitive models.
Ranger Crew Diesel's work ethic also includes a 55 amp alternator that gives the operator the ability to run many hard working, higher electrical load accessories, such as plows, extra lights, cab heaters and fans at the same time. It boasts a monstrous one-ton towing to tackle the toughest jobs and comes standard with a 2-inch hitch receiver to tow accessories with ease. Its 1,000 lb/454.5 kg capacity rear dump box has gas-assist dumping operation and accommodates many hardworking Pure Polaris accessories that go on and off in seconds.
The Ranger Crew Diesel's long wheelbase combined with its fully-adjustable suspension creates a very smooth ride, even when fully loaded. The vehicle's suspension is the only four-corner adjustable suspension system that features Dual A-arms with exclusive top-mounting-point adjustability. For recreational riding, the user can adjust to a softer setting or adjust stiffer for heavy-duty work. With a suspension travel of 9.6 in/24.4 cm up front, 9 in/22.9 cm in the rear and a ground clearance of 11.5 in/29.2 cm, the Ranger Crew Diesel provides a very comfortable ride.
To complement the suspension and travel, the Ranger Crew Diesel features On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with VersaTrac that keeps you moving, automatically engaging all four wheels when you need more forward traction and reverting back to two-wheel drive when you don't. When in two-wheel drive, the VersaTrac Turf Mode switch unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns that won't tear up the grass.
Inside the cab, the vehicle has the ability to carry six adults comfortably due to its superior comfort and ergonomics, including a slide-through cab design for easy entrance and exit that also provides lots of legroom. Leaned seatbacks provide extra comfort during travel and 10-inches/25.4 cm of tilt steering-travel provides plenty of steering wheel position options for the driver. For 2012, the Ranger Crew Diesel will be available in Sage Green.
Other multi-passenger models not mentioned above include the Ranger Crew 800 in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo with EPS and a Sandstone Limited Edition EPS model and the Ranger Crew 500 in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo, with a Ranger Crew 500 Turbo Silver Limited Edition model.
Polaris will continue to offer the Ranger 500 EFI, Ranger 400 and Ranger EV midsize vehicles for 2012. The Ranger 500 EFI and Ranger 400 will be available in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo, with a Ranger 500 EFI Sunset Red Limited Edition model. The Ranger EV will be available in Boardwalk Blue and Polaris Pursuit Camo.
Model Year 2012 Ranger Line Up
Full Size
Ranger XP 800 EFI
Hardest Working Features
800 EFI Engine
High/Low beam headlights
Full instrumentation
On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with Turf Mode
1000 lb./453.6 kg box, 1500 lb./680.4 kg total payload
One ton/907.2 kg towing
Industry-leading storage
Removable under-seat storage
Pallet-size rear dump box with gas assist
ROPS Certified Cab
Lock & Ride Cargo System
Smoothest Riding Features
Easy-buckle driver and passenger safety nets.
Adustable Dual A-arm front suspension
Independent rear suspension
9.6 in/24.5 cm front travel, 9 in/22.9 cm rear travel
12 in/30.5 cm ground clearance
Seating for three
Work-enabling ergonomics including tilt steering, easier steering effort, extra legroom and easy cab slide through for three adults to get in and out quickly
» Available in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo
» Limited Edition models include Boardwalk Blue, Magnetic Metallic, Walker Evans and Pearl White
Ranger XP 800 EPS
» All the features of the Ranger 800 XP with the addition of Electronic Power Steering (EPS).
» Available in Sage Green and Solar Red
» Limited Edition models include Sunset Red and Browning Edition Pursuit
Ranger HD 800 EPS
Hardest Working Features
800 EFI Engine
Full instrumentation
High/Low beam headlights
One ton/907.2 kg towing
On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with Turf Mode
1000 lb./453.6 kg box, 1500 lb./680.4 kg total payload
Removable under seat storage
ROPS Certified Cab
Lock & Ride Cargo System
Available Lift & Carry with 500 lb. capacity
Smoothest Riding Features
New Polaris Exclusive Engine Braking System (EBS)
Easy-buckle driver and passenger safety nets
Adjustable Dual A-arm Front Suspension
Exclusive Independent Rear Self-Leveling Suspension with Nivomat shocks
Variable assist electronic power steering
9.63 in/24.5 cm front travel, 9 in/22.9 cm rear travel
12 in/30.5 cm ground clearance
Seating for three
Work-enabling ergonomics including tilt steering, easier steering effort and seat back angle
» Available in Sage Green
Ranger 6X6 800
Hardest Working Features
800 EFI Engine
Full instrumentation
High/Low beam headlights
Exclusive On-Demand True Six-Wheel Drive
One ton/907.2 kg payload, 1250 lb./567 kg cargo capacity, 250 lb./113.4 job box
One ton/907.2 kg towing
Heavy duty front end protection, inset lights and the most protection for critical components.
Gas-assist dump box
Removable under-seat storage
Lockable rear storage boxes hold 39 gallons
ROPS Certified Cab
Lock & Ride Cargo System
Smoothest Riding Features
Easy-buckle driver and passenger safety nets
Adjustable Dual A-arm Front Suspension, middle and rear suspension with motion ratio adjustability
Exclusive On-Demand True Six-Wheel Drive
9.6 in/24.5 cm front travel, 9 in/22.9 cm middle and rear travel
12 in/30.5 cm ground clearance
Seating for three
Work-enabling ergonomics including tilt steering, easier steering effort, extra legroom and easy cab slide through for three adults to get in and out quickly
» Available in Sage Green and Solar Red
Ranger Diesel
Hardest Working Features
904cc, 3-cylinder, Yanmar Diesel engine
Full instrumentation
High/Low beam headlights
55-amp Alternator
One ton/907.2 kg towing
1500 lb./680.4 kg total payload
Heavy duty front end protection, inset lights and the most protection for critical components.
Pallet-size rear dump box with gas-assist
Removable under seat storage
Largest fuel tank in class
ROPS Certified Cab
Lock & Ride Cargo System
Smoothest Riding Features
Adjustable Dual A-arm Front Suspension
Independent Rear Suspension
On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive
Seating for three
9.6 in/24.5 cm front travel, 9 in/22.9 cm rear travel
12 in/30.5 cm ground clearance
Easy-buckle driver and passenger safety nets
Work-enabling ergonomics including tilt steering, easier steering effort, extra legroom and easy cab slide through for three adults to get in and out quickly
» Available in Sage Green
Midsize
Ranger 500 EFI
Hardest Working Features
500 EFI Engine
Lock & Ride Cargo System
On Demand True All-Wheel Drive with Turf Mode
500 lb./22.68 kg box, 1000 lb./453.6 kg total payload
1250 lb./567 kg towing
Heavy duty front end protection with inset lights and the most protection for critical components.
Rear dump box with gas-assist
ROPS Certified Cab
Fits in the bed of many trucks
Water resistant glove box
