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Can-Am vs Polaris: ATV & Side-by-Side Comparison for Florida Riders | Broward Motorsports Hollywood

Dec. 8 2025 informative By Anthony Bruno

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Can-Am vs. Polaris: ATV & Side-by-Side Comparison for Florida Riders

A Broward Motorsports Hollywood Buyer’s Guide

When you’re shopping for a new ATV or side-by-side in South Florida, two names rise to the top: Can-Am and Polaris. As a dealership that proudly sells both brands, Broward Motorsports Hollywood helps riders every day who are deciding between the two.

Below is a clear, unbiased breakdown of how each brand stacks up—covering power, handling, comfort, technology, value, and more.
And importantly… not declaring a single winner.
Each brand shines for different reasons, and the best choice always comes down to the rider.

Can-Am ATVs & Side-by-Sides

Can-Am Pros

1. Industry-Leading Power

Can-Am is well known for its high-output Rotax engines. Many of their ATVs and SxS models produce some of the highest horsepower in their classes.
This appeals to riders who prioritize acceleration, dune performance, and wide-open desert or trail riding.

2. Smooth, Predictable Handling

Can-Am machines often have:

  • Long-travel suspension

  • Wider track widths

  • Refined chassis geometry

This results in a planted, confident feel at higher speeds.

3. Advanced Technology

Depending on the model, Can-Am offers:

  • Smart-Lok differentials

  • Smart-Shox semi-active suspension

  • BRP GO! app integration

  • DCT transmission on Maverick R models

These systems help the machine adapt to terrain and riding style with minimal driver effort.

4. Aggressive Sport-Focused Design

Can-Am tends to design with an athletic, performance-first look and feel—especially in the Maverick and Renegade lines.

Can-Am Cons

1. Pricing Can Be Higher

Because of the focus on premium components and high horsepower, Can-Am models often sit at the top end of the market price range.

2. Firmer Ride on Some Models

Sport-oriented setups can feel slightly stiffer at lower speeds or during casual trail riding.

3. More Tech = More Complexity

Advanced systems (Smart-Lok, Smart-Shox, DCT) require proper maintenance and may feel overwhelming to beginners.

Polaris ATVs & Side-by-Sides

Polaris Pros

1. Comfortable, User-Friendly Ride

Polaris is often praised for:

  • Soft, plush suspension tuning

  • Predictable steering

  • Comfortable ergonomics

This makes many Polaris models excellent for long days on the trail or around the ranch.

2. Ride Command Technology

Polaris’ Ride Command system offers:

  • GPS navigation

  • Group ride tracking

  • Machine diagnostics

  • Bluetooth and audio control

  • Front/rear camera options

It’s one of the most complete digital ecosystems in powersports.

3. Broad Model Lineup

Polaris offers specialized machines for:

  • Utility (Ranger, Sportsman)

  • Trail riding (RZR Trail, XP models)

  • Desert performance (RZR Pro R)

  • Recreation crews & families

This wide coverage makes it easy for riders to find a machine that fits a specific purpose.

4. Smooth CVT Performance

Polaris CVTs are tuned for responsive low-speed control—especially helpful in Florida’s tight wooded trails, mud, and sugar sand.

Polaris Cons

1. CVT Belt Maintenance

Though reliable, CVT systems require belt inspection and replacement over time—especially if pushed hard or driven in deep sand/mud.

2. Less Peak Horsepower Than Some Can-Am Models

Polaris focuses more on torque delivery and drivability than highest-possible horsepower numbers.

3. Some Models Have Softer Sport Feel

The plush ride, while comfortable, may feel less stiff or aggressive compared to sport-focused riders’ preferences.

How Do They Compare?

Power & Performance

  • Can-Am tends to offer higher peak horsepower, aggressive acceleration, and sport-tuned suspensions.

  • Polaris focuses on torque, smoothness, and all-day comfort.

Handling

  • Can-Am: More planted at high speed, wider stance, great for dunes/desert.

  • Polaris: Nimble feel, excellent in tight trails, easy for new riders.

Technology

  • Can-Am: Smart-Lok, Smart-Shox, BRP GO!, DCT (on Maverick R).

  • Polaris: Ride Command, Dynamix DV, integrated cameras.

Comfort

  • Can-Am: Sporty, performance-oriented ergonomics.

  • Polaris: Softer ride, very comfortable seats, easy to drive.

Work Capability

  • Can-Am Defender and Polaris Ranger are both extremely capable utility SxS models—each excels in different ways but both handle towing, hauling, and ranch/yard work with ease.

Price & Value

  • Can-Am: Often higher MSRP due to more horsepower and tech.

  • Polaris: More options at mid-range pricing and many recurring incentives.

Which Should You Choose?

The ideal machine depends entirely on your riding style, your terrain, and the type of experience you want.

You may lean toward Can-Am if you prefer:

  • Maximum performance

  • High horsepower

  • Sport-oriented handling

  • Advanced differential and suspension tech

You may lean toward Polaris if you prefer:

  • Comfort

  • Smooth drivability

  • Versatile trail machines

  • Ride Command technology

Shop Both Brands at Broward Motorsports Hollywood

At Broward Motorsports Hollywood, you don’t have to pick a side—we carry:

  • Can-Am Outlander, Renegade, Defender, Maverick

  • Polaris Sportsman, RZR, Ranger, General

Our team can walk you through each lineup, explain differences in plain language, and help you choose what fits your riding lifestyle—without pushing one brand over the other.

📍 4101 Davie Road EXT, Hollywood, FL 33024
📞 Call or visit us today to compare both brands back-to-back.