Click to Schedule Can Am & Polaris Service in Wichita, KS
Call (316) 260-8039
Can Am Maverick R vs Polaris RZR Pro R at Glamis Dunes
When it comes to high-performance side-by-sides, two machines stand at the top of the food chain: the Can-Am Maverick R and the Polaris RZR Pro R. These UTVs represent the pinnacle of off-road engineering, each built to dominate the dunes, desert, and trails with unmatched power and suspension capabilities. If you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ve likely got your eye on one of these two beasts. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Power & Performance
Can-Am Maverick R
- Engine: 999cc Rotax 999T Turbocharged Triple
- Horsepower: 240 HP
- Transmission: Dual Clutch 7-Speed Automatic (with paddle shifters)
- Drivetrain: 2WD/4WD with Smart-Lok technology
The Can-Am Maverick R brings an industry-first 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) to the high-performance UTV segment. This gives it lightning-fast shifts, seamless power delivery, and greater control over its 240-horsepower turbocharged engine. It’s the most powerful stock UTV ever made, and with no CVT belt to worry about, reliability is improved under extreme conditions.
Polaris RZR Pro R
- Engine: 1997cc Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 225 HP
- Transmission: CVT with PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission)
- Drivetrain: 2WD/4WD with selectable drive modes
The Polaris RZR Pro R counters with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine—the largest naturally aspirated motor in the UTV industry. At 225 HP, it’s just shy of the Maverick R but delivers an insane amount of torque. While the CVT transmission provides a smooth ride, it’s prone to belt wear under extreme loads, which might require regular maintenance if you push it hard.
Winner: Can-Am Maverick R – Slight edge due to higher horsepower and a beltless DCT system.
Suspension & Handling
Can-Am Maverick R
- Front Suspension: 25 inches of travel, double A-arm with sway bar
- Rear Suspension: 26 inches of travel, semi-trailing arm with sway bar
- Shocks: FOX 2.5/3.0 Live Valve dampers
- Wheelbase: 108 inches
The Maverick R is built to soak up big hits while maintaining excellent control. With up to 26 inches of rear suspension travel, it’s well-equipped to handle rough terrain and aggressive jumps. The Smart-Shox suspension adapts in real-time for a comfortable and controlled ride.
Polaris RZR Pro R
- Front Suspension: 27 inches of travel, dual A-arm with stabilizer bar
- Rear Suspension: 29 inches of travel, trailing arm with stabilizer bar
- Shocks: FOX 3.0 Live Valve X2 dampers
- Wheelbase: 104.5 inches
The RZR Pro R fights back with the most suspension travel in the industry, boasting an insane 29 inches of rear wheel travel. Its FOX Live Valve X2 shocks adjust on the fly and provide impressive damping control, making it one of the best-handling UTVs on the market.
Winner: Polaris RZR Pro R – The extra suspension travel makes a difference when pushing the limits.
Chassis & Durability
Can-Am Maverick R
- Chassis: Fully welded one-piece high-strength steel frame
- Tires: 32-inch Tenacity XNRs on 16-inch wheels
- Ground Clearance: 17 inches
The Maverick R is built tough with a rigid chassis designed to withstand heavy impacts. Its 17 inches of ground clearance help clear large obstacles, and the large wheels and tires provide additional stability on rough terrain.
Polaris RZR Pro R
- Chassis: Boxed steel chassis with reinforced roll cage
- Tires: 32-inch Maxxis Rampage Fury tires on 15-inch wheels
- Ground Clearance: 16 inches
The RZR Pro R also features a strong chassis, but the slightly lower ground clearance might make a difference in extreme rock-crawling situations.
Winner: Can-Am Maverick R – The fully welded frame and extra ground clearance give it a slight edge.
Technology & Features
Can-Am Maverick R
- 10.25-inch digital display with touchscreen
- Smart-Shox semi-active suspension
- Selectable drive modes (Normal, Sport, Sport+, Off-Road)
- Launch control
- Premium interior with tilt steering and bolstered seats
Polaris RZR Pro R
- 7-inch Ride Command display (GPS, Bluetooth, vehicle diagnostics)
- Dynamix DV active suspension
- Selectable drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Baja)
- Race-inspired cockpit with bucket seats
While both UTVs are loaded with tech, the Can-Am Maverick R’s 10.25-inch display and advanced drive modes give it a more refined, high-tech feel.
Winner: Can-Am Maverick R – Larger display and more tech-focused features.
Price & Value
Can-Am Maverick R
- Base Price: $35,499+ (higher for premium trims)
Polaris RZR Pro R
- Base Price: $37,499+ (higher for premium trims)
Both machines are premium-priced, but the Can-Am offers slightly more power, better transmission tech, and a lower starting price.
Winner: Can-Am Maverick R – More horsepower and DCT for less money.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Power & Transmission | Can-Am Maverick R |
| Suspension & Handling | Polaris RZR Pro R |
| Chassis & Durability | Can-Am Maverick R |
| Technology & Features | Can-Am Maverick R |
| Price & Value | Can-Am Maverick R |
If you’re looking for raw power, a cutting-edge transmission, and a more refined user experience, the Can-Am Maverick R is the ultimate choice. But if you want the best suspension travel in the industry and a naturally aspirated powerhouse, the Polaris RZR Pro R is hard to beat.
Either way, you’re getting one of the most extreme UTVs ever built. The choice comes down to personal preference and where you ride. No matter which machine you pick, Big Dog Powersports has the parts, accessories, and service to keep it running strong. Stop by today and let us help you build the ultimate off-road machine!