Can-Am Defender Max vs. Polaris Ranger Crew, Which Is Better?

If you're looking for a side-by-side that can handle any terrain, haul heavy loads, and fit up to six people comfortably, you might be interested in the Can-Am Defender Max or the Polaris Ranger Crew. These two models are among the most popular and versatile in the market, but which one is better for your needs? 

In this blog post, we'll compare the difference between the Can-Am Defender Max and the Polaris Ranger Crew in various aspects, such as comfort, power steering, suspension, reliability, price, etc. 

By the end of this post, you'll have a better idea of which side-by-side is right for you!

• Can-Am Defender Max vs Polaris Ranger Crew Specs
• Can-Am Defender Max vs. Polaris Ranger Crew
• Which Is Better, Can-Am Defender Max or Polaris Ranger Crew?
• Final Thoughts on Can-Am Defender Max vs Polaris Ranger Crew
• FAQs

Can-Am Defender Max vs Polaris Ranger Crew Specs

Before we dive into the details, let's take a look at the basic specs of the Can-Am Defender Max and the Polaris Ranger Crew. 

	2023 Can-Am Defender MAX DPS HD10	2023 Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000
Engine	Rotax 976 cc, V-twin, liquid cooled	999 cc, 4-stroke twin cylinder DOHC, liquid cooled
Horsepower	82 hp	82 hp
Ground Clearance	12.5 in.	13 in.
Suspension Travel	11 in.	11 in.
Wheelbase	114.4 in.	113 in.
Overall Dimensions (LxWxH)	153.4 x 64 x 77.5 in.	152 x 62.5 x 77 in.
Cargo Box Dimension (LxWxH)	38 x 54.5 x 12 in.	36.75 x 54.25 x 12.5 in.
Cargo Box Capacity	1,000 lb.	1,000 lb.
Towing Capacity	2,500 lb.	2,500 lb.
Payload Capacity	1,750 lb.	1,690 lb.
Front tires	Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 (27 x 9 x 14 in.)	Pro Armor X-Terrain (27 x 9 x 14)
Rear tires	Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 (27 x 11 x 14 in.)	Pro Armor X-Terrain (27 x 11 x 14)
Power Steering	DPS	EPS
Drivetrain	Selectable turf mode/2WD/4WD with Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential	High-Performance  On-Demand True AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
MSRP	$20,899	$22,099

Can-Am Defender Max vs. Polaris Ranger Crew

Now that we've covered some of the basic specs and features of these two models, let's compare them on some of the most important aspects: comfort, handling, suspension, reliability, and price.

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Can-Am Defender MAX dominates.

Both Can-Am Defender MAX DPS HD10 and Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 offer spacious cabins that can accommodate up to six people comfortably. Both of them have adjustable seats and tilt steering wheels for optimal ergonomics. 

However, the Can-am Defender MAX DPS HD10’s cab feels more spacious because the angles of the cage make it feel much bigger. Some users have reported that the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 has more legroom and headroom than the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000, especially for taller riders. In addition, the Defender Max DPS HD10’s seats are more comfortable for riding hours. 

Alongside space considerations, let's touch on the noise and storage, where the Defender Max DPS HD 10 again shows its strengths.

Some users have praised the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 for its quieter engine and smoother transmission than the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000. And, the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 also has more storage space in the cabin than the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000, with under-seat compartments and glove boxes. 

Handling

Driving the Defender Max DPS HD10 feels more intuitive and responsive, with a great turning radius and solid control even when you're going fast.

The Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 is lauded for better handling on rocks and mud, primarily due to its 13-inch ground clearance, which edges out the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000's 12.5-inch clearance. 

Users also praise the Defender Max DPS HD10 for its better traction and stability on slippery surfaces, thanks to its selectable four-wheel drive system with a locking front differential. 

However, the Defender Max DPS HD10 has a significant con with its Visco-Lok front differential, which tends to slip quite a bit before it locks and gets your traction back. All Defender models come with this feature except for the Defender MAX X MR, which boasts the more reliable Smart-Lok front differential.

The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Crew’s handling is as good as the Defender Max DPS HD10, with an excellent front differential that doesn’t slip before it locks.

Therefore, if you frequently need a locked front diff, the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Crew has the edge. But if that's not a big deal for you, the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 might be the way to go.

Suspension

It's also critical to consider how well these vehicles can absorb the bumps along the way. 

Both the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 and the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 are equipped with robust suspension systems designed for off-road performance.

The 2023 Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 features a double A-arm suspension system at both the front and rear. This setup includes arched lower arms, which are intended to provide increased clearance and improved durability. The suspension travel on both models is equivalent, with each offering 11 inches of travel. Despite the slightly lower ground clearance of 12.5 inches compared to the Ranger's 13 inches, the Defender Max DPS HD10’s arched lower arms can offer benefits on uneven terrain.

Some riders have reported that the Defender Max DPS HD10 provides a notably smooth ride, particularly at higher speeds, thanks to its suspension design and shock absorber setup. In contrast, the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 is said to perform better at slower speeds, offering a comfortable ride when navigating over rough patches and obstacles.

It's worth noting that the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 has been commended for the durability of its suspension system. Some users suggest it may be more resistant to wear and tear compared to the suspension system of the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000, which has occasionally been reported to sag and leak over time

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and driving preferences. If you often tackle high-speed trails and prioritize suspension durability, the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 could be for you. On the other hand, if you value low-speed handling and comfort, the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 might better suit your requirements.

Keep in mind that personal experiences with vehicle performance can vary widely, and it is advisable to test drive both models to see which suspension system feels best for your riding style.

Reliability

No one wants to deal with breakdowns and repairs in the middle of nowhere. Both Can-am Defender DPS HD10 and Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 are reliable and durable, as they are made by reputable brands that use quality materials and components. 

However, many users have claimed that the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 is more reliable than the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000, based on their experiences and other users' feedback. 

Some of the common issues that riders have encountered with the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 include overheating, electrical problems, belt failures, and transmission failures. 

On the other hand, some of the common issues that riders have encountered with the Can-Am Defender Max DPS HD10 include oil leaks, fuel pump failures, and clutch failures. However, these issues are not very frequent or severe and can be easily fixed or prevented with proper maintenance and care. 

Which Is Better, Can-Am Defender Max or Polaris Ranger Crew?

The Can-Am Defender Max offers superior comfort, handling, better high-speed suspension performance, and increased reliability, making it an ideal choice if you prioritize a smooth and durable ride. 

On the other hand, the Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 shines with its consistent performance. 

Both have a strong cargo capacity and power steering. But for rugged terrains and long rides, the Defender Max DPS HD 10 tends to edge out. 

Ultimately, deciding between the Can-Am Defender Max DPS and the Polaris Ranger Crew depends on your specific needs. Plus, test driving will help you determine which model best suits your off-road driving.

Final Thoughts on Can-Am Defender Max vs Polaris Ranger Crew

In a word, both UTVs offer robust features and off-road capabilities, but the Defender Max DPS HD10 shines with its impressive comfort, handling, reliability, and suspension durability. 

Take a moment to think about what's most important to you—is it zipping along high-speed trails or smoothly navigating at lower speeds? And there's nothing like a test drive to really get a feel for which side-by-side fits you. Go ahead, hop in each one, and check for yourself which ride is calling your name! 

And remember check out our wide range of aftermarket accessories for Can-Am Defender and Polaris Ranger here at Kemimoto!

FAQs

1. What Are the Different Can-Am Defender Models?

Can-Am Defender is a line of utility vehicles designed for off-road adventures and tough work. There are different models to suit different needs and preferences, such as the Defender DPS, the Defender XT, the Defender XMR, the Defender Limited, and more. 

2. What’s the Difference Between a Can-Am Defender and a Can-Am Defender Max?

The Defender can seat up to three people, while the Defender Max can seat up to six people. The Defender Max also has a longer wheelbase and a larger cargo box than the Defender.

3. What Is the Difference Between Defender Max HD9 and HD10?

HD10 offers more power, enhanced off-road handling, higher clearance, and tougher tires for better grip and rough terrain performance.

The HD10 has more horsepower, torque, and ground clearance than the HD9. The HD10 also has an arched double A-arm front suspension, while the HD9 has a dual A-arm front suspension. Besides, the HD9 has 27 in 8 ply XPS Trail Force tires, while the HD10 has 27 in Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires.

4. How Much Is a Can-Am Defender Max Limited?

The 2023 Can-Am Defender Max Limited has an MSRP of $31,899. The 2024 Can-Am Defender Max Limited HD10 has a retail price of $32,999, while the 2024 Can-Am Defender MAX Limited HD10 6MRB has a retail price of $39,384. 

5. Does Can-Am Defender Max Have Power Steering?

Yes, all models of the Can-Am Defender Max have power steering. The power steering system is called Dynamic Power Steering (DPS), which adjusts the steering assistance according to the speed and terrain. DPS also reduces steering kickback and improves stability.

6. How Many Miles Will a Can-Am Defender Last?

Can-Am Defender are built to last. Some users have reported that their Can-Am Defenders have lasted over 10,000 miles without any major issues, as long as they follow the recommended service intervals and use quality parts and fluids.