More than just workhorse, combination of work and pleasure

In the sectors of agriculture, forestry and landscape management as well as recreation, Polaris is a familiar name, especially thanks to the popular RANGER and SPORTSMAN. Now new models of both the RANGER and SPORTSMAN came on the market. Plus the presentation of the first all-electric RANGER XP KINETIC. Reasons enough for a big event, they thought at Polaris. The venue: The Pavilion, E.J. Churchill Shooting Ground in High Wycombe (UK). Also present: the sun and pleasant temperatures.

First stop is hotel McDonald Compleat Angler in Marlow. Where we will take in a presentation of the models, followed by dinner in the Conservatory. The following day it's early morning gathering to travel by minibus to EJ Churchills. There, the program continues with product presentations of the MY25 RANGER Full-Size and the MY25 SPORTSMAN 570 2-UP. Followed by a ride with the MY25 RGR Full-Size on the West Wycombe estate and a technical off-road route with the MY25 SPM 570 2-UP. In the afternoon, Fryers Barn will host the product presentation of the RGR KINETIC, again followed by an extended ride. 

The first part of this article follows our findings of the RANGER and the SPORTSMAN ...

The Polaris RANGER is a versatile utility vehicle (UTV) ideally suited for heavy-duty tasks in a variety of environments. Whether transporting materials, managing estates or performing off-road maintenance, the Ranger offers an excellent combination of power, capacity and comfort. With its advanced technologies and powerful engines, it ensures maximum productivity and minimum downtime.

Tricky question from GreenPro: "Every little detail has really been thought about for the update of this RANGER. So why are you guys still using a manual gearshift and transmission?"

Amy Cahill, marketing manager Polaris UK & Ireland: "This particular item was on the table for a very long time during the design phase of the new models. Because really everything was remembered and kept under a magnifying glass. So also the original gearbox. You might think we could easily make this electronic, a real 'automatic,' in other words. No, we wanted to go for the full 100% reliability. And then you also have to take into account that our RANGER must continue to function perfectly even in the most inhospitable areas, in terms of temperature, surface and weather conditions. And then you can't go beyond keeping one of the most essential parts of the vehicle strictly mechanical."

The 2025 full-size RANGER series combines an impressive array of new upgrades with familiar Polaris features. For example, the industry-leading 454 kg bucket capacity and 1,136 kg towing weight are retained, allowing large loads to be carried in fewer trips and maximizing productivity. In addition, the RANGER is equipped with On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which automatically engages when traction is lost for extra grip on rough terrain, and switches back to two-wheel drive once grip is restored.

GreenPro's experience: "Polaris' latest RANGER series offers unparalleled comfort. The version we drive is fully equipped with a cab. This cab includes a roof, fold-out windshield with windshield wiper, rear panel, revolving doors and heating. These accessories allow riders to close themselves off from the elements and extend their workday. Whether looking for shelter from the summer sun or protection from winter cold, the RANGER is undoubtedly comfortable to work with all year round. In terms of engine capabilities, this RANGER also leaves no stone unturned, in both high and low engine speeds and both steep inclines and challenging flat terrain. Extremely reliable, as it should be for this powerhouse." 

The Polaris SPORTSMAN, is an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) known for its durability and versatility. Ideal for tasks such as forest management and terrain inspection, the SPORTSMAN excels in maneuverability and traction, even in the harshest conditions. These ATVs are designed to maneuver easily on narrow trails and rugged terrain, making them perfect for performing everyday tasks in the green industry.

Tricky question from GreenPro: "Most 'quads' are built for a single person, because not infrequently they are (also) used for recreation. But what if you want to use this SPORTSMAN professionally and take two people out into the field? Do you then have to buy two?"

Mark Janssens, Sales and Dealer Development JEEGEE MOTORS bv: "No, the X2 570 introduces a unique folding rear seat that easily converts from a solo to a pillion seat, while the Touring 570 offers an all-new removable passenger seat that can be removed quickly and without tools. Both models are designed for rides alone, or with a passenger. They also offer plenty of storage space, including a new storage bin under the front rack on the X2 570. Comfort has also been optimized with softer seat cushions, new material, and extra reinforcement to make passengers feel safe and relaxed.

With all versions of the SPORTSMAN, the needs of both our business and recreational customers are met. Indeed, the ATV series was further expanded with the new 2-up Sportsman 570 series. The X2 model offers ultimate versatility for customers who both work hard and enjoy adventure, while the Touring variant offers enough room for two people to explore off-road terrain together.

GreenPro's experience: "We have of course tested this SPORTSMAN mainly recreationally. For that, the magnificent shooting grounds of EJ Churchill (wider West Wycombe estate) are of course ideal. This very extensive territory offers not only wonderful photo opportunities, but also more slopes, streams curves and mire than you can see in a lifetime. And the new SPORTSMAN acquits itself excellently. Even the most challenging moments are effortlessly overcome by this highly maneuverable and extremely powerful quad bike. The SPORTSMAN comes with new adjustable driving modes: work, standard and performance. After briefly testing the first two modes, we work through the rest of the ride in "performance" mode, which is really enjoyable. What a beast!"