Recently, we hit up the National 4X4 show in Sydney to check out all the latest innovations from the industry’s leading outdoor lifestyle brands. With many souped-up vehicles in attendance, Can-Am’s off-road side-by-side vehicles rightfully caught our eye with the Defender XT and Maverick X3 on display. It got us thinking about the story behind Can-Am and how tragedy came to revolutionise the auto industry.
The story of Joseph-Armand Bombardier
Back in the early 1900’s, Joseph-Armand Bombardier dabbled in mechanics and built his first snow vehicle at the ripe age of 15. By 19 he’d opened up a garage and would spend his time both repairing cars and selling gasoline. Tragically, the concept for the snowmobile arose when his son fell ill from peritonitis but could not reach a doctor because of the heavy blizzard snow. As a result he sadly passed away. Out of his grief, Joseph-Armand Bombardier created the snowmobile to prevent this situation from happening to another family.
The growth of Can-Am
As decades passed, Can-Am has continued to innovate and make strides in the auto industry. Offering both on-road and off-road lineups, Can-Am distributes in over 100 countries getting more people behind the wheel. With so many uses and capabilities, Can-Am has found a home with the working farmer, as well as the adrenaline junkie alike. Designed for drivers of all skill levels, Can-Am has ATV and side-by-side vehicles for every terrain, purpose & riding style.
The off-road vehicles
Side-By-Sides
Commander
Starting at $24,879, the Can-Am Commander is considered the ‘legend on wheels.’ It’s engineered to make it all happen, from the likes of work to play. As versatile as you are, this side-by-side allows you to add an Adventure Roof Rack, LinQ Modular Boxes or Cargo Rack. Whether it’s camping gear or hunting tools, no gear will be left behind.
Defender
No matter if you’re a snow bunny or love to rip up the mud, the Defender cab tackles any terrain confidently while you’re sealed inside the cab on a comfy seat. It features automatic climate control, or you can manually call in heating, ventilation or air conditioning to keep yourself comfortable across all four seasons of the year. Starting at $21,979, the Defender is your personal defence against the daily grind.
Maverick X3
For those that love to explore the unbeaten track, the Maverick X3 is your ticket to roar off-road in a high-performance vehicle. If you need some background music to really get the adrenaline pumping, the new waterproof sound system will allow you to really get in the mood via six speakers with Bluetooth compatibility. Rock crawl, mud dive and hit the hardcore terrain and let no terrain stand in your way. The Maverick X3 starts at $35,179.
Maverick Sport
Push the Maverick Sport to its limit and dictate your own adventure, built for all terrains. Find yourself in a comfortable, roomy cockpit with enough space for you and your gear. It’s the sharpest (and probably the most fun) way to get yourself from point A to point B. It’ll set you back $35,279.
Maverick Trail (U.S. Only)
The Maverick Trail is the most narrow side-by-side. Coming in at 50 inches wide, it allows and empowers you to get through even the tightest of spaces. Built to last and take you the distance, it allows you to hit up thrilling trails and fill up your quota of adventure. This side-by-side starts at $12,799 USD.
All terrain vehicle’s
DS
If the kids are sick of sitting on the sidelines and watching the adults have the fun, starting at $4,299, the DS is designed to safely introduce the young ones (aged 6 and up) to the joys of off-road fun. Confidence is created on the DS where kids have a real machine to learn on with a built-in speed limiter to properly introduce them safely. It features a 4-stroke engine with an electric starter and shift-less CVT transmission.
Outlander 6X6
Built for the heavy-duty work, the Outlander 6X6 is the perfect blend of efficiency, performance, and price. It has an impressive 750kg towing capacity, allowing you to do more on the worksite, or cover any journey. Starting at $16,169, the Can-Am Outlander is engineered with strength and encourages you to confidently conquer the tough terrains.
All Terrain Vehicles’s (U.S. Only)
Outlander 450/570
Starting at $6,699 USD, the Outlander 450/570 blends efficiency and performance allowing you to virtually go anywhere. It gives you the power you need to hit up all terrains. If you’re craving more you can choose the Rotax 450 engine, or step it up to the 570 for increased power. The Outlander 450/570 is the face of the ‘do anything’ lineup in the Can-Am ATV’s and allows you to both work and play across your week and on your weekend.
Outlander
Rule the outdoor space and maximise your hauling ability with the ATV with the most horsepower in its category. Adaptable to all jobs or off-road activities, the Outlander starts at $9,499 USD and brings both power and stability to the table. Capable of hauling 750kg, the Outlander is the ideal companion for those working on remote work sites.
Renegade
If you’re looking for power, look no further than the Renegade with its leading engine technology providing race-proven performance. It features front arched A-arms, a sway bar, and revised wheels that provide a wider stance and optimised and improved clearance. The Renegade starts at $8,999 USD.
