When we went to upgrade to an HVAC model we went Defender Limited hands down. More comfortable, more roomy, more quiet. Disadvantges to Ranger. Not as good turning radius (minimal difference) , clutching is smoother on my Ranger. pretty easy to live with. I find the defender to be superior in every other way. It also looks so much cooler.
we bought the 2025 Polaris Ranger 1000 XP Crew Northstar and so far we love it. Coming from a 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP Highlighter that has been amazing
My experience Ranger V Defender (or Can Am over Polaris) is that I’ve had 3- Polaris SxS previously, a 2012-RZR 1K, 2021-RZR 1K+ turbo, and a 2020 Polaris Ranger XP 1K NorthStar Ed. While owning Polaris, (yes, I thought Polaris was the best, but I think we all think what we have is the best, unless we can compare over hours/days). I’m adding the overall experience with the Can Am X3 as well, as it pertains to the story. I now own a 2023-CanAm X3 RC, and a 2024 Can Am Defender Limited HD10. Comparing newer model years to older was NOT what prompted the switch, it was actually having 1st RENTED a 2022 X3 on a family trip alongside our 2021 RZR-turbo (in 2023). Even the abused/rented X3 was better in almost every scenario. It took less than a week later to make the switch to the X3 personally. Later that same year (2023), I rented a 2023 Defender (HD10 w/NO cab) while owning the 2020 Ranger (fully loaded). Again, huge model year comparison, so to be sure, I also drove my buddies new 2023 Ranger XP NorthStar Edition for an entire day while At Hatfield McCoy trails a few weeks later. Again, hands down the Can Am was the clear choice in almost every category and I hadn’t driven one for a couple months at that point. I can’t recall what (if any) categories the Ranger excelled, I just don’t want to come off like there was nothing the Ranger had in comparison, because I’m sure there were. TBH, it was close in several categories, but the overall win was the Can Am, so I opted for the Limited HD10, as I was trading a Ranger NS and enjoyed the full cab while plowing etc. While it could’ve been “close” in a few categories, the difference was significant enough to spend over $30K after less than 2-years with the latest Ranger. Having the Defender now for over a year proved to be a great decision, as I initially had a little buyers remorse due to the sheer expense at the time but got over it pretty quick. As far as the X3, there’s nowhere the RZR compared other than maybe noise level, more storage, and some access to engine components. When it came to performance, quality, comfort, and features, (and appearance), the X3 was a simple choice. Having the RC edition was more about the “look” and although suspension travel was the biggest defense (from other X3 models), but for me it was the look of the RC, as the suspension may drop the 0-60 a bit comparatively speaking.
CanAm is the quieter machine, there's no comparison. I will agree that the CanAm shifter/transmission is "notchier" but it's a non-factor once moving. I can't possibly see how you find the Polaris interior "roomier" or better laid out, at best this is a wash between the two. The AC system on the CanAm is the clear winner as well, just ask any dealer, technician and/or owner, they have the better performing and more reliable HVAC system. The same goes for reliability, Polaris is lacking in this department. I have owned both brands, while I was once a Polaris fanboy I have moved over to CanAm for better reliability and resale. My only complaint with my '24 CanAm Defender Max Limited are the halogen headlights, sure the DRL/Signature light is a LED but they really should have put LED's for the hi/lo beams. I will be rectifying this with aftermarket LED bulbs. It seems your Polaris bias heavily impacted your comparison but it's human nature to favor that of which you are invested so I can't fault you there. That said, you really should be comparing the same year models here as that puts the CanAm at a disadvantage in this shootout.
I bought a new 24 ranger northstar crew in April. I had 2 months and had nothing but problems I traded it in and bought a defender limited and never looked back hell of lot better machine hands down
I keep reading how many people are having trouble and problems with Polaris I’m close on buying a machine but I hate the fact that to change the oil on the can am you have to disassemble the interior 🤦♂️😂
Great video. I am shopping for one and these and these are the 2 I am considering. Can Am does now have locking doors, and I do like the 4x4 system on the Can Am better, however, I think the Polaris is a better choice based on everything you mentioned.
I like everything better on the ranger except for the seating position and leg room. The comfort and room in the defender are why I got that one. I wish I had the locking doors, but the 2025s that have those were $2k more than the 24s that were on sale. I'll probably buy the lock kit later when it's available.
@@texlee84where are you located ? I asked my dealer because I bought a 24 defender and 2 weeks later the 25s came out with the door locks. The dealer was unaware if they could put the locks from the 25 on the 24.
@@aaronfamilycampinghunting6113 Texas, outside of Houston. They can use the '25 MY door locks on your '23-24, some rear door cards might require a very light trim inside of the handle opening.
Just had a customer come in after a day spent in the Ranger. Had a ton of negative feedback about the seats. Said he can’t wait to buy a Defender again.
You know I have a Can Am Maverick and an older Polaris Ranger. I have zero complaints about the Can Am, has been reliable and I have put it through the wringer. I bought the Ranger after I moved out to the country, its older and has required some wrench time. I like both of them but I must say the Polaris is easier to work on, maybe since it has a tilt bed, but dang every thing I have ever done to the Can Am has been difficult and overly time consuming and I have heard that from others. The Ranger seems more logically laid out. Could be apples and oranges but it has made me curious.
Good comparison video however the 2025 Can Am has a few changes that the 24's don't have. The can am should have led headlights. I have looked at both and it seems like the can am interior is roomier overall. How much are the rebates on the Polaris currently?
Defender has 2 models also, limited and lone star. Along with 25’s having locking doors and the double door seal unlike 24’s. Might be a few other updates also but I can’t remember.
They are both very nice machines. I looked at both but bought a 2023 hd9 dps cab defender . It’s a heated cab model no ac. I saved $8500 from the limited model . Polaris couldn’t come close in price. This machine was a huge upgrade from my 2017 can am commander (extremely loud engine noise) . I had to wear ear plugs and muffs which felt like I was at work . After a year and a half of ownership I still enjoyed the machine until I took my folks 1500 northstar ranger out for a ride lol. . Polaris has certainly upped their game.
We have a 2022 Polaris northstar ultimate camo color on 35 inch tires street legal, wouldn't trade this machine for 2 can ams. Had a 2020 canam Outlander all stock and smoked the belt first time out in mud, this was the mudding edition. Nope leave can am alone. I wont even tow one lol.😊
Just my .02, but I have my 2024 Defender Limited on a stacked trailer with our SeaDoos above and pulled behind a Class A diesel pusher. I use the Defender to launch the SeaDoos by pulling the CanAm off, lowering the upper deck with SeaDoos, hooking the CanAm to trailer and down the boat ramp. Reason is that it’s really difficult to launch SeaDoos using a 40Ft. RV. Long story shortER, since we take our SxS to various campgrounds etc. across the US, it’s nice to be able to lock the doors. Like anything though, if someone wants in, they’ll get in regardless of door locks. It’s a nice extra deterrent though and by NO MEANS the reason I chose the CanAm. I’ve had 3- Polaris SxS previously, a 2012-RZR 1K, 2021-RZR 1K+ turbo, and a 2020 Polaris Ranger XP 1K NorthStar (the rest is posted in another comment)…
I currently have a 22 Northstar Ultimate. All its use is on a cattle Ranch, I can't say anything bad about it. I'm not afraid to try something new so Yesterday I tried the Defender, I just didn't like it
How can you compare the Polaris 2025 to a defender 2024? 2025 Defender limited has all the same upgrades. I guess you are really biased. Don’t even do a comparison of different years.
First off, you didn’t show all the storage on the defender, you don’t need to take it dealer to shut the wrench off, can am 4x4 system is far better with the smart lok. The locking doors don’t make a difference. Not a very well educated video. Also if you had a 2025 defender to compare to a 2025 ranger you would have had locking doors on both machines. Just sayin….
Next time you should compare the same year models. I have the 2025 defender max limited HD10 and it’s hands down better than the Polaris. “But I’m splitting hairs…you be the judge.” What a waste of time watching this review.
So what can am do in 2025 that is so earth-shattering. Did the finally add a nav system or maybe a radio? Did they add some horse power? I don't think can am is the latest and greatest
That logic applies to anything - why lock your car, or your house then? Honestly it’s nice, I drove my 25 Defender to the restaurant and left everything inside the cab and locked it. Love mine
You’re so biased you might as well. Tell everybody that your butt the one you bought in the beginning Can-Am is a much better machine than Polaris. I’ve worked with the Polaris in the fire department soon as you load the thing the thing falls apart to shock exploded I don’t know what to tell you, but put them in the field in a storage underneath the seat is a massive storage box. Come on you know that you just didn’t wanna say it.
When we went to upgrade to an HVAC model we went Defender Limited hands down. More comfortable, more roomy, more quiet. Disadvantges to Ranger. Not as good turning radius (minimal difference) , clutching is smoother on my Ranger. pretty easy to live with. I find the defender to be superior in every other way. It also looks so much cooler.
2025 defender for the win.
we bought the 2025 Polaris Ranger 1000 XP Crew Northstar and so far we love it. Coming from a 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP Highlighter that has been amazing
My experience Ranger V Defender (or Can Am over Polaris) is that I’ve had 3- Polaris SxS previously, a 2012-RZR 1K, 2021-RZR 1K+ turbo, and a 2020 Polaris Ranger XP 1K NorthStar Ed. While owning Polaris, (yes, I thought Polaris was the best, but I think we all think what we have is the best, unless we can compare over hours/days). I’m adding the overall experience with the Can Am X3 as well, as it pertains to the story.
I now own a 2023-CanAm X3 RC, and a 2024 Can Am Defender Limited HD10.
Comparing newer model years to older was NOT what prompted the switch, it was actually having 1st RENTED a 2022 X3 on a family trip alongside our 2021 RZR-turbo (in 2023). Even the abused/rented X3 was better in almost every scenario. It took less than a week later to make the switch to the X3 personally. Later that same year (2023), I rented a 2023 Defender (HD10 w/NO cab) while owning the 2020 Ranger (fully loaded). Again, huge model year comparison, so to be sure, I also drove my buddies new 2023 Ranger XP NorthStar Edition for an entire day while At Hatfield McCoy trails a few weeks later. Again, hands down the Can Am was the clear choice in almost every category and I hadn’t driven one for a couple months at that point. I can’t recall what (if any) categories the Ranger excelled, I just don’t want to come off like there was nothing the Ranger had in comparison, because I’m sure there were. TBH, it was close in several categories, but the overall win was the Can Am, so I opted for the Limited HD10, as I was trading a Ranger NS and enjoyed the full cab while plowing etc.
While it could’ve been “close” in a few categories, the difference was significant enough to spend over $30K after less than 2-years with the latest Ranger. Having the Defender now for over a year proved to be a great decision, as I initially had a little buyers remorse due to the sheer expense at the time but got over it pretty quick. As far as the X3, there’s nowhere the RZR compared other than maybe noise level, more storage, and some access to engine components. When it came to performance, quality, comfort, and features, (and appearance), the X3 was a simple choice. Having the RC edition was more about the “look” and although suspension travel was the biggest defense (from other X3 models), but for me it was the look of the RC, as the suspension may drop the 0-60 a bit comparatively speaking.
CanAm is the quieter machine, there's no comparison. I will agree that the CanAm shifter/transmission is "notchier" but it's a non-factor once moving. I can't possibly see how you find the Polaris interior "roomier" or better laid out, at best this is a wash between the two. The AC system on the CanAm is the clear winner as well, just ask any dealer, technician and/or owner, they have the better performing and more reliable HVAC system. The same goes for reliability, Polaris is lacking in this department. I have owned both brands, while I was once a Polaris fanboy I have moved over to CanAm for better reliability and resale. My only complaint with my '24 CanAm Defender Max Limited are the halogen headlights, sure the DRL/Signature light is a LED but they really should have put LED's for the hi/lo beams. I will be rectifying this with aftermarket LED bulbs.
It seems your Polaris bias heavily impacted your comparison but it's human nature to favor that of which you are invested so I can't fault you there. That said, you really should be comparing the same year models here as that puts the CanAm at a disadvantage in this shootout.
Defender hands down, better fit and finish, better air conditioning and quiter in cab noise. Not to mention berptter depenability
Great review! Really helped as I'm in the market.
I bought a new 24 ranger northstar crew in April. I had 2 months and had nothing but problems I traded it in and bought a defender limited and never looked back hell of lot better machine hands down
I keep reading how many people are having trouble and problems with Polaris I’m close on buying a machine but I hate the fact that to change the oil on the can am you have to disassemble the interior 🤦♂️😂
@@DuckbumSD You can change oil without taking interior apart.
Make sure it's insured as those can am voltage regulators are burning down people's machines and buildings.
Good info in this vid. I can’t wait to test drive a 25 ranger. That new trans is a game changer.
Great review from a guy that likes comfort and ease, nothing wrong with that.
i have the polaris 2023 northstar and love it
Where I live most of the Polaris are gone and have been replaced by the defender HD9and HD10.
I also like the ride command in my Polaris
Great video. I am shopping for one and these and these are the 2 I am considering. Can Am does now have locking doors, and I do like the 4x4 system on the Can Am better, however, I think the Polaris is a better choice based on everything you mentioned.
I like everything better on the ranger except for the seating position and leg room. The comfort and room in the defender are why I got that one. I wish I had the locking doors, but the 2025s that have those were $2k more than the 24s that were on sale. I'll probably buy the lock kit later when it's available.
Lock kits are out, I have the '25 door locks on my '24, dealer charged $500 installed.
@@texlee84 I'll have to check with the dealer. Canam's website still says coming soon
@@texlee84where are you located ? I asked my dealer because I bought a 24 defender and 2 weeks later the 25s came out with the door locks. The dealer was unaware if they could put the locks from the 25 on the 24.
@@aaronfamilycampinghunting6113 Texas, outside of Houston. They can use the '25 MY door locks on your '23-24, some rear door cards might require a very light trim inside of the handle opening.
Does one have a wider stance than the other?
Awesome review. You sound like Joe Coffey at Christ Community Chapel! A relaxing voice!
Just had a customer come in after a day spent in the Ranger. Had a ton of negative feedback about the seats. Said he can’t wait to buy a Defender again.
You know I have a Can Am Maverick and an older Polaris Ranger. I have zero complaints about the Can Am, has been reliable and I have put it through the wringer. I bought the Ranger after I moved out to the country, its older and has required some wrench time. I like both of them but I must say the Polaris is easier to work on, maybe since it has a tilt bed, but dang every thing I have ever done to the Can Am has been difficult and overly time consuming and I have heard that from others. The Ranger seems more logically laid out. Could be apples and oranges but it has made me curious.
Polaris will be in the shop. Defender by a mile.
Good comparison video however the 2025 Can Am has a few changes that the 24's don't have. The can am should have led headlights. I have looked at both and it seems like the can am interior is roomier overall. How much are the rebates on the Polaris currently?
The 25 Defenders do have locking doors that must be a previous years model
Defender has 2 models also, limited and lone star. Along with 25’s having locking doors and the double door seal unlike 24’s. Might be a few other updates also but I can’t remember.
Tinted windows as well. @@rcvalley8706
Which one has the most leg Room
They are both very nice machines. I looked at both but bought a 2023 hd9 dps cab defender . It’s a heated cab model no ac. I saved $8500 from the limited model . Polaris couldn’t come close in price. This machine was a huge upgrade from my 2017 can am commander (extremely loud engine noise) . I had to wear ear plugs and muffs which felt like I was at work . After a year and a half of ownership I still enjoyed the machine until I took my folks 1500 northstar ranger out for a ride lol. . Polaris has certainly upped their game.
I have a 2022 hd9 cab model and love it. Haven't had any problems with it and going on 5000 miles
We have a 2022 Polaris northstar ultimate camo color on 35 inch tires street legal, wouldn't trade this machine for 2 can ams. Had a 2020 canam Outlander all stock and smoked the belt first time out in mud, this was the mudding edition. Nope leave can am alone. I wont even tow one lol.😊
2025 Can Am has door locks👍Also has factory tinted windows😎You can reset your service light thru the command center😂
😂 Where do you ride your machine that you need to lock it?
Just my .02, but I have my 2024 Defender Limited on a stacked trailer with our SeaDoos above and pulled behind a Class A diesel pusher. I use the Defender to launch the SeaDoos by pulling the CanAm off, lowering the upper deck with SeaDoos, hooking the CanAm to trailer and down the boat ramp. Reason is that it’s really difficult to launch SeaDoos using a 40Ft. RV. Long story shortER, since we take our SxS to various campgrounds etc. across the US, it’s nice to be able to lock the doors. Like anything though, if someone wants in, they’ll get in regardless of door locks. It’s a nice extra deterrent though and by NO MEANS the reason I chose the CanAm. I’ve had 3- Polaris SxS previously, a 2012-RZR 1K, 2021-RZR 1K+ turbo, and a 2020 Polaris Ranger XP 1K NorthStar (the rest is posted in another comment)…
Test drive a few used ones. You'll know which one is going to rattle after a few months of ownership
You did not even show all the storage on the defender like the arm rest and the storage above the gage
I was ready to buy the can am until I watched an oil change in both machines and I chose Polaris
you picked the wrong one bro i have both and the defender is better quieter, tighter turning radius and more room inside.
I currently have a 22 Northstar Ultimate. All its use is on a cattle Ranch, I can't say anything bad about it.
I'm not afraid to try something new so Yesterday I tried the Defender, I just didn't like it
None of these reviews ever do apples to apples another trash vid...reviewer is polaris biased
Id much rather have the polaris
Did you forget about the Lone star edition
I basically disagree with just about every point and decision you made, but good luck with your machine. I hope it treats you well.
How can you compare the Polaris 2025 to a defender 2024? 2025 Defender limited has all the same upgrades. I guess you are really biased. Don’t even do a comparison of different years.
His blatant bias was evident almost immediately.
Maybe it was what’s available?
First off, you didn’t show all the storage on the defender, you don’t need to take it dealer to shut the wrench off, can am 4x4 system is far better with the smart lok. The locking doors don’t make a difference. Not a very well educated video. Also if you had a 2025 defender to compare to a 2025 ranger you would have had locking doors on both machines. Just sayin….
He's just a regular dude expressing his opinion. I disagreed with quite a few things too but his opinion was still interesting.
Great video, do you find much of a difference in the cabs with allowing dust in?
Next time you should compare the same year models. I have the 2025 defender max limited HD10 and it’s hands down better than the Polaris. “But I’m splitting hairs…you be the judge.” What a waste of time watching this review.
So what can am do in 2025 that is so earth-shattering. Did the finally add a nav system or maybe a radio? Did they add some horse power? I don't think can am is the latest and greatest
Polaris makes a 1500 version.
Typical canned ham owner comment 🤦
@jamesdoucettedoucette868 well, canned hams will always be better😊
You don’t have to carry a defender to the dealer!! Learn before you speak!
Wheres the Honda?
Buy the new CFMOTO U10 Pro.
Both need at least 40 more hp....
Hands down, paid Polaris advertising. Total phony transparent bias. Kept on saying, because his wife likes it more. Useless video.
Polaris transmissions don’t last!😢😢😢
The locking door is nothing ply bar you are in
That logic applies to anything - why lock your car, or your house then? Honestly it’s nice, I drove my 25 Defender to the restaurant and left everything inside the cab and locked it. Love mine
😂😂😂too$$$ go cf moto much stuff for less$ and 5years warranty
Buy a car this is not a UTV buy a car buy a truck
Sounds like a Polaris fanboy
At price of them who has that kind of toy money not me for sure
Get another job
Bias much?
Polaris is junk simple !!!!
Polaris is junk
You’re so biased you might as well. Tell everybody that your butt the one you bought in the beginning Can-Am is a much better machine than Polaris. I’ve worked with the Polaris in the fire department soon as you load the thing the thing falls apart to shock exploded I don’t know what to tell you, but put them in the field in a storage underneath the seat is a massive storage box. Come on you know that you just didn’t wanna say it.