Ranger News

Polaris continues to double down on real-world usability with the introduction of two new enclosed RANGER models aimed squarely at riders who don’t park their machines when the weather turns. The new 2026 RANGER 1000 CAB and 2027 RANGER XP 1000 CAB expand Polaris’ already industry-leading cabbed lineup, giving more riders access to factory-installed comfort without forcing them into top-tier pricing.

Whether you’re plowing snow, checking fence lines in the cold, or trying to stay cool while working long summer days, these new cabbed RANGER options are built to keep you comfortable while still delivering the capability the RANGER name is known for.

Key Highlights

• Two new factory-cabbed models: 2026 RANGER 1000 CAB and 2027 RANGER XP 1000 CAB
• Expands the industry’s largest cabbed side-by-side lineup
• Factory-installed enclosed cabs designed for all-season work and riding
• Competitive pricing aimed at value-focused buyers
• Built on proven RANGER platforms with class-leading capability

Polaris clearly listened to riders who wanted an enclosed machine that didn’t feel like an upgrade reserved only for premium trims. These models bring factory cab protection, heating, and even air conditioning into more attainable price points—something that matters for riders who actually put hours on their machines year-round.

2026 RANGER 1000 CAB

Highlights

• Factory-installed enclosed cab with fixed glass windshield
• Factory-installed heating system for cold-weather comfort
• 61-horsepower ProStar engine
• 4,500-lb factory-ins

I am excitied to see the latest new side-by-side from Polaris. No it is not a 400 horsepower side-by-side, but an entry-level Ranger side-by-side that is starting at $9999. Now I get it, that is still a bunch of money, but considering that many UTVs currently cost more than a small SUV this is good news! There is plenty of value alongside capability in this mid-size RZR with enough power for adventure but more importantly to get small jobs around the property done. The Ranger 500 has a tilting bed that is rated to haul 300LBs and tow 1500LBs. You also get LED lights and of course the Polaris AWD system that can put power to all four wheels when the trail needs it. We are thrilled to see Polaris step up with a very capable side-by-side at a very resonable price. 

What You Want To Know

Horsepower- 28

Engine- 4-stroke single cylinder DOHC 567cc

Suspension Travel- MacPherson strut 9" front travel Dual A-arm, IRS 10" rear travel

Ground Clearance- 10-inches

Price- $9999

• Overview of the RANGER 500:
  • New mid-size utility side-by-side aimed at value-conscious buyers.
  • Designed for everyday use on small acreage and rural properties.
  • Compact, practical, and customizable with accessories.
• Market Segment
  • Geared toward users shifting to rural living with outdoor and yard projects.
  • First-time side-by-side owners seeking affordability and reliability.
• Price

Here we are diving headfirst into the 2023 Ranger family lineup trying to find out exactly what is new along with what has been updated or changes that have been made. There are no new Ranger models for 2023, but there are a handful of updates/upgrades in features to the current models. Starting with the flagship Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Trail Boss & Crew, a rear LED work light and 12V power port are now installed in the cargo bed. In the cab there are now overhead switches for additional lighting and accessory options. These two items can be purchased as an accessory for all other Ranger XP 1000 and Ranger 1000 customers. Ranger Premium trim levels receive LED headlights, and an in-dash USB charging port. Lastly, the 2023 Ranger XP 1000 & Crew and Ranger XP Kinetic come complete with the new RIDE COMMAND+ technology adding features like Find My Vehicle and Bump to locate and monitor when your Ranger moves (more later on this). It is safe to say the biggest updates to the Ranger lineup is on the technology end with RIDE COMMAND+. Here is what you need to know.

What You Need To Know

• Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Trail Boss & Crew models receive a cargo bed light and 12V cargo bed power port. Both can be added to other Ranger XP 1000 models as an accessory.
• Ranger Models in Premium trim receive an in-dash USB charging port and LED headlights. This includes Ranger SP 570 Premium, Ranger XP 1000 Premium, Ranger 1000 Premium, Ranger NorthStar with corresponding Crew models. 
• RIDE COMMAND+ is available on the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar & Crew along with the Ranger XP Kinetic. This over-the-air service is an addon to 2023 RIDE COMMAND vehicles which allows you to locate your vehicle, with the Bump feature know when it moves, and generate reports on rides such as logged miles, waypoints, and elevation changes. It will be offered as a service for $99 a year.

Ranger Highlights

• 4 Engines-

Polaris introduced the Ranger XP Kinetic this year which is Polaris' first real forray into the modern electric UTV. The Ranger XP Kinetic is engineered to do everything any other fullsize Ranger can do with the same level of durability.  To show off the Ranger XP Kinetic, Polaris has created a web series called To The Test where well-known people put the Ranger XP Kinetic to the test in their field of work. Episode 2 of To The Test just dropped featuring the Diesel Brothers using the Ranger XP Kinetic on recovery missions. Give it a watch.

The automotive world is changing with a huge push towards all-electric cars and trucks. It seems daily that I read about yet another all-electric model of yet another car or truck. But what might that mean about the Off-Road ATV and UTV world? That is a question bouncing around in my head almost daily. What does this push to electric look like when it comes together with our favorite ATVs and side-by-sides. With the Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic introduction we all learn what an electric fully capable UTV does look like. Its not the only all-electric side-by-side out there, but it is the first top-of-the-line fully capable all-electric model from a major manufacturer of ATVs and side-by-sides.

When you hear the word "ultimate" it evokes a feeling of best-of-the-best or top-of-the-line. With things like a full-cab and AC and heating this Polaris Ranger NorthStar model is an ultimate Ranger or ultimate by any side-by-side standard. AJ with Dirt Trax TV walks us through this top-of-the-line Polaris Ranger. For more information on the Polaris Ranger NorthStar Ultimate model, check out the Polaris Ranger Website