If you’re shopping for a new sport UTV, you’re probably looking at two of the most popular UTVs you can get right now—the Polaris RZR XP and Can-Am Maverick X3.
Each model has a trim that comes in under $20K MSRP, and they have similar dimensions, but there are more differences between them than just their looks.
Today, we’re going to look at the latest entry models—the 2026 Polaris RZR XP vs the Can-Am Maverick X3 DS. Let’s dig in, spec-by-spec, and see which one is best for you.
First, let’s compare engines between the Polaris RZR XP and the Can-Am Maverick X3.
Even though they’re in the same horsepower ballpark, you’ll notice a big difference between the way the RZR XP and Maverick X3 feel when you hit the gas.
The naturally-aspirated RZR XP delivers smooth, predictable power delivery. You feel the torque right away, and it increases evenly with throttle. That kind of power delivery makes it ideal for any sort of technical riding through rocks or tight trails where precise power control is important.
The turbocharged X3 delivers power completely differently. Its clutch is tuned for more high-end power, so it doesn’t feel as powerful at low RPM. Once the turbo spools up and you hit those higher RPMs, you get the double whammy of turbo power and an engaged clutch that delivers tons of power. It’s perfect for going fast in wide open spaces and is sure to leave a grin on your face that makes you forget about the lack of punchy power at the low end.
Bottom line:
Front differentials make a huge difference to your UTV’s capability. Luckily, both the RZR XP and the Can-Am X3 come packing some sweet hardware. In practice, both are great options.
The front diff on the RZR XP is an on-demand AWD diff with an auto-locking mechanism. You flip the 4WD switch on your dash to send power to your front diff, and it’ll lock the front diff whenever the rear wheels slip.
It uses a sprague carrier to engage the lock, so it happens almost instantaneously when needed. The advantage of this setup is that it keeps it unlocked most of the time to give you better handling and control.
You can read more about how it works in our Polaris Differential article.
The Maverick X3 uses Can-Am’s Smart-Lok front diff. The Smart-Lok differential engages its lock with an electronic actuator. Can-Am designed it to engage using sensors throughout the X3 that feed information into it.
Smart-Lok will engage differently based on the profile you choose from the dash. For example, if you set it to “trail,” it will engage less often and pay attention to your turning angle so you don’t lose control. If you set it to “rock,” it will be much quicker to engage any time it detects any slippage.
It’s a pretty intuitive and robust front diff.
You definitely don’t want to skimp on great suspension for your trail machine. It doesn’t matter if you plan on flying through open desert or crawling through technical terrain—you need excellent suspension to keep you comfortable either way.
They’re nearly like-for-like when it comes to suspension. They have the same ground clearance, the same usable travel (which is closer to 18” in practice), and similar adjustable shocks.
Both machines can handle bumps and obstacles well.
The differences in purpose and capability come to light when you take a closer look at the overall dimensions of the Can-Am Maverick X3 DS vs the Polaris RZR XP.
The Maverick X3 is longer, shorter, and has a longer wheelbase. While they both boast the same width of 64”, the longer wheelbase of the X3 and lower center of gravity give it boosted stability over whoops and chattery terrain at high speed. It also helps with hard braking and hill climbs. It’s all about going fast and looking badass.
The tighter and taller dimensions of the RZR XP are much better suited for tight trails and where maneuverability is king. This rig will get through dense woods and tight turns that would be a pain in the X3.
This section isn’t going to help you decide between them, because we have tons of parts for both machines.
Whether you need GDP Portals, Rhino 2.0 Axles, flip windshields, drive belts, roof racks, skid plates, A-arms, replacement parts, or any of our many other parts, SuperATV has you covered.
Seriously, check out our selection:
Spend some time browsing, and you’ll find just about anything you need to transform either machine into anything you want. From mud monsters to rock crawlers to high-speed desert demons, every kind of build is waiting for you at SuperATV.
When it comes down to it, there are just a few key differences between the RZR XP and the Maverick X3:
If your priority is high-speed riding (and looking awesome), the Maverick X3 is the way to go. Its longer wheelbase and high-end torque give it the stability and capability for high speeds.
But, if you prefer riding in tight trails with gnarly obstacles like washouts, logs, and rocks, the RZR XP is the better fit for you.
Whatever you pick, you’re going to have a grin on your face while you go on awesome adventures.
And when you need an upgrade or a replacement part, remember that SuperATV has got you covered.
