Powersports Business October 2025 | Page 18

18 • October 2025 • Powersports Business

ATV / UTV www. PowersportsBusiness. com

Can-Am reveals new Outlander Electric ATV and next-gen Defender SxS

BRP is taking a two-pronged approach to the future of powersports. On one side, the company is pushing ahead with electrification through the launch of the 2026 Can-Am Outlander Electric, its first electric ATV. On the other hand, it’ s doubling down on internal combustion power with a groundup redesign of the Can-Am Defender, one of its most important utility side-by-sides. Together, the announcements highlight BRP’ s strategy of addressing both emerging technology trends and the core demands of its traditional customer base.
Far left: BRP continues its commitment to electrification after releasing the all-new Outlander Electric, the company’ s first electric ATV. Left: The redesigned Defender platform ensures BRP maintains a stronghold in the utility and recreational segments, where dependability and performance drive sales volume.( Photos: BRP / Can-Am)
OUTLANDER ELECTRIC The new Outlander Electric is built around the in-house Rotax E-Power modular powerpack already used in Can-Am’ s electric motorcycles and Ski-Doo / Lynx snowmobiles. The machine produces 47 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque, with a claimed range of 50 miles in ideal conditions.
Other key specs include
• Selectable ride modes( Normal, Sport, Work) to match tasks and terrain
• Fast charging: 20 %– 80 % in 50 minutes on a Level 2 charger
• 1,830 lbs of towing capacity, competitive with gas models
• Whisper-quiet operation, thanks to lownoise cooling, specialized tires, and optimized suspension
Positioned for ranchers, farmers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Outlander Electric is designed to offer serious utility to customers while appealing to riders seeking a quieter, lower-maintenance, and more sustainable option. More than 120 accessories will be available at launch, allowing dealers to tailor the machine for work or recreation.
“ With the Outlander Electric, we’ re not just launching a new ATV— we’ re introducing a new way to experience the outdoors and get the job done,” says Julie Tourville, director of global marketing at Can-Am Off-Road.
DEFENDER HD11 While EVs capture headlines, BRP hasn’ t taken its eye off the gas-powered workhorse segment. The 2026 Can-Am Defender HD11 introduces a new engine, chassis, suspension, and technology package, reaffirming the Defender’ s reputation as a benchmark in the utility-rec category.
The new 999cc three-cylinder Rotax ACE engine produces 95 hp and 70 lb-ft of torque, paired with an updated CVT and pDrive primary clutch for stronger low-speed performance. Drive modes( Normal, Work, Sport) help operators adapt to various tasks, including jobsite work, towing, and trail riding.
The chassis is more robust, featuring a 65−inch-wide suspension geometry, 50 % larger A-arms, 15 inches of ground clearance, and 12 inches of suspension travel. Double-bonded bushings reduce maintenance and noise, and reinforced ROPS add safety and durability.
Comfort and technology upgrades are also front and center. The Defender boasts the largest cab in its class, improved HVAC systems on Limited and Lone Star trims, and new seating ergonomics. A 10.25−inch touchscreen with GPS, backup camera, and BRP GO integration is standard on upper trims and optional on others, supporting over-the-air updates for future features.
Best-in-class payload, towing, and cargo capacities are maintained, while a larger 11.9−gallon fuel tank extends time between fill-ups. The charging system has also doubled its output, producing 1,700 watts to power accessories, tools, or electronic add-ons.
ELECTRIFICATION MOMENTUM? The Outlander Electric joins BRP’ s expanding electric portfolio, which includes the Can-Am Pulse and Origin motorcycles, Ski-Doo and Lynx electric snowmobiles, and the Rotax E10 racing powerpack for karting.
Importantly, BRP is the only powersports OEM developing a fully integrated electric powertrain in-house— covering the battery pack, inverter, motor, charger, and control software. This vertical integration allows BRP to maintain control over performance, consistency, and scalability as it grows its EV lineup.
While the EV segment has struggled with consumers in recent years, president and CEO José Boisjoli underscored that electrification at BRP is“ intentional and strategic,” and it has been rolled out in applications where it provides clear value. The Outlander Electric, with its blend of quiet operation and hard-working performance
, is positioned as one of those highvalue applications. And the price point is also in line with ICE products— albeit at a 20 % premium.
WHAT IT MEANS For dealers, the dual product launches represent both opportunity and complexity. EV curiosity is growing, and the Outlander Electric provides showrooms with a conversation starter for landowners, outfitters, and eco-conscious riders seeking a lowermaintenance ATV. At the same time, the Defender remains a cornerstone. Its redesigned platform ensures BRP maintains a stronghold in the utility and recreational segments, where dependability and performance drive sales volume.
With more than 120 accessories for the Outlander Electric and over 200 for the Defender, dealers also have strong aftermarket opportunities to boost margins. Together, the two launches demonstrate that BRP is willing to push forward with electrification while also defending its base with combustion-powered innovations. For powersports dealers, it means having strong new talking points in both future-focused EV discussions and traditional utility sales.

Honda releases new and improved Pioneer 700

American Honda upgraded its popular Pioneer 700 side-by-side for the 2026 model year, adding features like additional storage and other convenience-focused updates.
In the same Aug. 12 press release, Honda announced the return of its smallest sideby-side, the Pioneer 520. The FourTrax Rubicon 700 4 × 4 and FourTrax Recon will also be returning for the 2026 model year, as well as the TRX250X. All models are available, except the Recon, which will be available in October.
PIONEER 700 Designed and manufactured in the U. S. using domestic and globally made parts, the Pioneer 700 offers convenience features, more accessory options, and increased storage capacity across multiple trim levels. Engineered to handle both work and recreation, the Pioneer 700 platform includes six different trim levels( three two-seat and three four-seat), all featuring a 675cc fuel-injected engine, automatic transmission, and long-travel suspension. MSRP starts at $ 12,899.
PIONEER 520 Honda’ s Pioneer 520 is the smallest multipurpose side-by-side in Honda’ s lineup. It features a dump bed and a 1,000−lb. towing capacity, a 518cc engine, and a narrow 50−inch width that enables legal access to ATV trails. MSRP starts at $ 10,999.
FOURTRAX RUBICON 700 4X4 Honda’ s most powerful ATV, the FourTrax Rubicon 700 4 × 4 Automatic, is developed for riders who need a machine that can handle both utility and recreation. A three-speed transmission with automatic and manual shifting modes— along with Honda’ s Trax- Lok 2WD / 4WD system— gives riders more control over technical terrain. Long-travel independent front and rear suspension contribute to a stable, comfortable ride on trails, while an 848−pound towing capacity and integrated storage make this model a practical choice at any worksite. MSRP starts at $ 9,999.
FOURTRAX RECON The FourTrax Recon is Honda’ s smallest multipurpose ATV. Its 229cc engine is powerful enough to tow up to 500 pounds. The Recon has an automatic clutch and is offered in two trim levels— one with a foot shifter and one with a handlebar-mounted push-button electric shifter. It starts at $ 4,849 and will be available in October.
The updated Pioneer 700 is a midsize multipurpose SxS that offers more storage and better protection.( Photo: American Honda)
TRX250X The TRX250X is a versatile entry-level sport ATV. Pairing Honda’ s unique Sport- Clutch system with a capable 229cc aircooled engine, the model is an appealing option for customers seeking performance and value. With a lightweight double-cradle steel frame, independent double-wishbone front suspension, and a rear swingarm with a single shock absorber, the TRX250X delivers solid handling and comfort on the trail. MSRP: $ 5,099.