2017 Polaris General 4 vs. Can-Am Commander MAX XT: By the Numbers

When it comes down to the recreation/utility side-by-side market, the two heavy hitters, especially in the multi-passenger category, are undoubtedly the 2017 Polaris General 4 and Can-Am Commander MAX XT. Both machines boast similar engines, capacities and all-around fun. So what sets these two powerhouses apart? Here’s a run-down to help you decide.

The scoop with both UTVs is that they are 1,000-class machines with seating for four. They are more at home on the trail than doing work, but are both capable of handling the utility side of life. The other thing you’ll notice is a lot of both of them on the trail.

More Power to Ya!

The 2017 Polaris General 4 runs Polaris’ 999cc ProStar Twin-cylinder four-stroke engine that puts out a claimed 100 hp and 65 lb-ft of torque. The transmission has high and low range along with park, reverse and neutral. A cool feature is the selectable two- and all-wheel drive and turf mode, which unlocks the rear differential to allow for tighter turning and to save your yard from a little rear-wheel spin.

The 2017 Can-Am Commander MAX XT is powered by a 976cc Rotax V-Twin that pumps out a respectable 85 hp. The Commander has a similar transmission with selectable 2WD and 4WD with Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential. You might tear up the lawn a bit more with the Commander, but it’ll be fun doing it.

Suspenders

Polaris runs Walker Evans Racing shocks on the General 4, with dual A-arms on each corner. Out front, there is 12.25 inches of travel. On the back end, you’ll get 13.2 inches of travel. You’ll also find 27-inch GBC Dirt Commanders on 14-inch aluminum wheels all the way around. The G4 has 12 inches of ground clearance.

The Commander MAX has 10 inches of wheel travel at all four corners, with dual A-arms in the front and a torsional trailing arm suspension in the rear, with sway bars front and back. The Can-Am runs 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires on 14-inch aluminum wheels. The MAX has 11 inches of ground clearance.

This, That and the Other

The 2017 Polaris General 4 can carry 600 lbs in the dumping cargo box. It is rated to tow 1,500 lbs and has a two-inch receiver hitch. It comes standard with full doors, comfortable seating, even for taller passengers, and a 4,500 lb Polaris HD winch. It has an MSRP of $20,999. You can get more information here.

The Commander has a unique cargo box in that it’s dual level. The upper main cargo area can hold 400 lbs of stuff, while the semi-sealed lower space can hold an additional 200 lbs. The MAX can also tow 1,500 lbs and has a two-inch receiver hitch. The XT package includes a 4,500 lb Can-Am winch with roller fairlead. The MAX XT carries an MSRP of $19,099. Click here for more information.