2018 CAN-AM DEFENDER UTVs

— Can-Am has honed its Defender side-by-sides by delivering refinements to the full family, advancements to its XT Cab package, as well as new colorations for 2018. The result is tough, capable and clever Defender side-by-side vehicle family that is more talented and diverse.

The 2018 Defender XT Cab HD10 vehicle’s factory-installed cab kit was optimized for enhanced quality and to create a true 100 percent enclosed system. Along with full-seal cab, the onboard, factory-installed integrated heat management system was updated to better separate hot air and cool air. New front arched A-arms increase the XT Cab package’s track width and supply an 11-in. (28 cm) ground clearance. Add in a new stabilizer and the Defender side-by-side is even more capable in the challenging terrain.

Five additional Can-Am Defender side-by-side vehicle family improvements were added for 2018. All XT packages get a new front bumper. New larger 27-in. (68.6 cm) Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires are now standard on both the HD8 and HD10 Convenience vehicles. All Can-Am Defender family vehicles also receive a new cargo box deflector to eliminate debris from the cargo bed reaching the engine compartment. A refined second-generation Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) system was added. And a revised shifter gate adds smoother operation and durability.

Two available heavy-duty Rotax V-twin engines (72hp HD10 and 50hp HD8) are mated to a PRO-TORQ Transmission and TTA-HD rear suspension, giving the Defender side-by-side vehicles have enough muscle and poise to conquer nearly any task. The Defender HD5 family offers a 38hp HD5 engine mated to a heavy-duty CVT with Park, Reverse, Neutral, High and Low ranges. Integrated hill descent control supplies smooth, predictable deceleration. Electronic Drive Belt Protection monitors the CVT belt to determine its condition and alerting the driver to be in low gear.

All three Defender families are built tough, combining a sturdy, high-strength chassis combined with class-leading towing, hauling and payload capacities. No break-in requirements mean owners can focus on chores and have the confidence to take on difficult tasks and challenging trails. A versatile 4-mode traction system, three selectable engine operating modes, Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) all add up to unbeatable handling for work and trail riding. All Defender vehicles are built with clever and adaptable solutions to work smarter.

The Defender family of vehicles offers spacious, comfortable and intuitive cockpit that has been configured to improve entry / exit as well as sight lines. The VERSA-PRO bench seat features a 40/20/40 profiled bench seat for three adults, as well as plenty of modularity. An exclusive removable toolbox, available removable waterproof under seat storage and multiple cup holders are just some of the many integrated conveniences.

The Defender MAX has a longer wheelbase and a back seat, which allows room for as many as six people. It’s available with either the HD10 or HD8 engine.