The Defenders are Can-Am’s lineup that is decidedly designed for the job. Considering that eternal rival Polaris’s best-selling model is the utility Ranger, BRP had to respond with one of the best products to meet the needs of the lucrative utility UTV market. Today, the Defender range is going all out to convince forestry workers, ranchers, and farmers to choose their vehicles.
When Can Am develops a lineup, it does so to cover all possible niches with single bench seat or multi-seater MAX versions, three possible engines, the usual levels of finish (standard, DPS, XT, or XT-P), and a host of specialized versions to meet the tastes of potential customers. We can think of the XT Cab which is equipped with a closed cab, the Max Lone Star version, the Limited version which immediately comes with a closed cab, X MR for mud, and an X-TP version, combined to versions with 3 or 6 passengers (MAX). The lineup also includes a 6 x 6 version and the brilliant Defender Pro with its long loading platform, a new feature in the industry. The number of possible configurations is astonishing and you will undoubtedly find one that suits you.
The Defender is powered by three engines designated HD7, HD9 and HD10 calibrated to deploy torque at low revs. The HD7 is new from last year and is a 700cc single-cylinder that produces 52 horsepower, 24 more than the HD5 it replaces. The HD9 is a Rotax 976cc V-twin that delivers 65 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. That’s a jump of 15 horsepower over the HD8 it replaces. The HD10 is a 1000cc V-twin engine that produces 82 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque.
A 4-mode traction system provides multiple choices to tackle varying tasks or terrains. The Visco-Lok front differential combined with the 4-mode rear differential allows you to choose from a variety of terrains ranging from deep mud with maximum traction using full 4WD with the rear-drive differential locked, to turf-save mode with both front and rear differentials open, both controlled by a separate rocker switch. A third switch offers a choice of three driving modes: work, normal, and Eco to save fuel.
For transporting essential equipment and a team of up to six workers, the Defender Max DPS and Max XT will do the job, and the Max XT-Cab or Limited will be able to take them on the job site sheltered from the elements, thanks to their completely closed cabin equipped with an integrated heating system.
You can also opt for an X mr version specialized for deep mud, an XT-P version with added performance features, and a Lone Star Edition version which gives a Texan flavor to the vehicle, with luxurious touches like two colors seats, extended bumpers, etc.
The 6 x 6s and PROs versions enter the scene with a payload capacity of 1,700 pounds. No multiple seat cabins are available for them, but a brilliant platform that can support up to 1000 pounds and has a dimension of 54 x 72 inches which is very rare in the industry. If anyone is thinking of developing a portable camper to go into the woods, this is the perfect vehicle to receive it. As for the pulling capacity, the 6 x 6 can pull up to 3,000 lbs (2,500 lbs for the PRO) which is more than the vast majority of compact SUVs on the road.
In short, the Defender is presented in 21 models and trim levels, not counting the variants possible by the choice of engine. You will surely find the right shoe for you in the lineup!
WHAT’S NEW?
New colors.
We appreciate:
- The workforce deployed by the Defender lineup from Can Am and the incredible versatility of the many versions offered.
- The diversity of storage and loading solutions.
We dislike:
- Nothing.
Skills:
