Side-by-side

With suicide doors, a dumping utility bed, and solid off-road capability, the Can-Am Commander Max is a powerfully useful and fun UTV. That sums up our experience with it after a couple of weeks in the wilds of Wyoming.

HySE, a Japanese research association that counts Honda, Toyota and Yamaha as members, is preparing a hydrogen ICE-powered side-by-side for Dakar 2024. Its supercharged X1 off-roader will tackle part of the grueling event for hydrogen engine R&D.

Can-Am has unveiled a new side-by-side (SSV) model, the Maverick R. The two-seat vehicle brings several new features to the Can-Am SSV space, including a new engine, transmission, and suspension geometry.

After talking with a focus group of farmers, ranchers and hunters, Polaris locked itself in the factory to create a Ranger meant for the hardest work. The new Ranger XD 1500 bulks up on steel and delivers more power, capability and durability.

Polaris believes performance side-by-side UTV racing is ready to step up a level. So it's launching the "first full-fledged UTV class factory racing program," complete with a purpose-built race vehicle, a full-time crew and a dedicated workshop.

We'd all like to think we go fast on the weekend, but Polaris sales manager Eric Borgen's got the ultimate proof. Roped into co-driving the storied Baja 1000, he discovered he's been mucking about with his friends in the desert at a race-winning pace.

Potential Motors aims to create a new category of all-terrain vehicle, and its debut product does indeed look like a new species. The Adventure 1 UTV micro-camper has a narrow body, smart suspension, two-motor electric powertrain and camper interior.

Potential Motors is deep in development on what it classifies a new category of vehicle. The compact, go-anywhere side-by-side camper will proficiently explore rough, wild terrain using a predictive 4-wheel control system.

To celebrate its 45th anniversary, Brabus does something different, stripping the Mercedes-AMG G63 into a downright evil buggy that looks plucked from the side-by-side market. In fact, it's a literal OHV that's no longer street-legal in the least.

Despite having some very capable luxury SUVs, Lexus isn't the first auto brand that comes to mind for off-roading, especially not powersports. That changes today with the reveal of the new ROV concept, an aggressive side-by-side with hydrogen engine.

Polaris raises the bar for side-by-side performance with the RZR Pro R. Powered like a small sports coupe, the Pro R makes 225 hp with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Factor in chassis and suspension upgrades, and the Pro R promises off-road excitement.

Vanderhall has provided a closer look its forthcoming all-electric off-road buggy. Switching names from Navarro to Brawley, the new e-4x4 looks like the most off-road fun you can have without any of the usual noise or emissions.