Polaris is pushing the boundaries of what a side-by-side can do with the launch of its new Xpedition line. Designed for overland adventure seekers, the Xpedition line brings car-like comfort and technology to a non-street-legal vehicle that is smaller and more nimble than a regular-sized truck or off-roader.
The Polaris Xpedition is a compact, rugged side-by-side that is available in two-seater and five-seater variants. The ADV model has a closed body, while the XP has an exposed cargo area. The Xpedition has 14 inches of ground clearance, grippy tires, almost nonexistent overhangs, and a narrow width, making it ideal for trails.
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All models are powered by a 1.0-liter Prostar gasoline engine that produces 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS) sending power to all four wheels through an on-demand AWD system. The driving range is over 200 miles (322 km) and the towing capacity is 2,000 pounds (907 kg). The FOX QS3 shock absorbers offer a comfortable ride in demanding terrains while the optionally fully enclosed cabin with HVAC will keep you protected from the elements.
There are three different trims to choose from. The entry-level Premium comes standard with 15-inch wheels shod in 30-inch tires, Fox shocks, a JBL Stadium 2.0 audio system, and a front bumper with an integrated winch. The Ultimate upgrades the audio experience with a 400-watt amplifier and a 10-inch subwoofer, while adding a 7-inch touchscreen with Ride Command GPS navigation on the padded center console. Finally, the flagship NorthStar gets a fully enclosed cabin with power windows and a tip-out front windshield, lockable doors, the heater/AC module, and the more advanced Ride Command+ GPS. It also has a 140-amp alternator so you can use it to power your devices in the wilderness.
For those who want to take a step further in terms of customization, the company offers over 100 accessories for the Xpedition, arranged in five different collections – Overland, Kayak, Trail, Hunt, and Utility – each designed for a specific purpose. Among those one can find different kinds of racks and storage solutions for the bonnet, roof, and cargo area, beefier protection, extra lighting all around the bodywork, and a roof-mounted tent for camping.
Pricing starts from $28,999 for the entry-level two-seater XP (pickup) and reaches $44,999 for the highest-spec five-seater ADV (closed body), but can go even higher if you upgrade it with some of the many optional accessories. This puts the non-street-legal Polaris Xpedition right against midsize trucks and traditional off-roaders although those won’t cover the specific needs of the target audience for side-by-sides.
