Can-Am Maverick x3 Max XRS Turbo RR with Smart Shox

In the realm of off-road adventures, Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) have gained immense popularity for their unparalleled performance and versatility. Among the top contenders, the Can-Am Maverick x3 XRS Turbo stands out as a trailblazer, redefining the off-road experience. Developed by Can-Am, a leading manufacturer of powersports vehicles, the Maverick x3 XRS Turbo has taken the UTV world by storm with its exceptional features, powerful performance, and cutting-edge design. In this article, we will delve into the key aspects that make this vehicle a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.

Unraveling the Maverick x3 XRS Turbo

Design and Build

  • The Maverick x3 XRS Turbo boasts a rugged and aggressive design, setting it apart from its competitors in the market.
  • The vehicle’s low-profile chassis contributes to enhanced stability and improved handling on challenging terrains.
  • With a wide track and long wheelbase, the UTV provides a smooth and comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.

Engine and Performance

  • The heart of the Maverick x3 XRS Turbo is its powerful 900cc turbocharged engine, delivering an astounding 195 horsepower.
  • The turbocharged engine ensures quick acceleration and impressive top speeds, making it an adrenaline-pumping ride.
  • Equipped with a high-performance suspension system, including FOX 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks, the UTV can tackle rough terrains with ease, providing a smooth ride even in the most challenging conditions.
utv filming

Handling and Suspension

The Maverick X3’s steel chassis benefits from years of refinement, last updated in 2022 for added strength in key areas. The cage received nearly 30% thicker tubing delivering a 13% more torsional rigidity. Mounting tabs for suspension components were beefed up at both ends, as were the high-clearance lower A-Arms front and lower radius rods out back. The rear tow plate’s thickness was increased and double shear knuckles were added at the other end of the radio’s rods for improved strength and rigidity.

Overall suspension travel numbers edge out the Polaris Turbo R. Dual A-Arm front suspension provides 22” of wheel travel and a 4-link trailing arm setup out back providing 24” of wheel travel.  Sway bars are used at both ends to help keep body roll in check.

Can-Am’s Fox Smart Shox equipped Mavericks were the first to offer computer assisted, semi-active suspension controlling both compression and rebound damping on the fly. Sensors measure throttle, speed, braking, direction and other inputs up to 200 times per second and are able to respond within .017 of a second, working to deliver the plushest, most planted ride possible.

Piggyback reservoir equipped Fox Podium 2.5 shocks are used up front with remote reservoir equipped Podium 3.0 shocks used out back. They utilize Fox internal bypass design to reduce harshness from high-speed impacts. Their computer controlled Smart-Shock technology was developed with 3rd party manufacturer Tractive Industries.

Selected by a switch on the dash, the shocks feature three different ride modes: comfort, sport, and sport plus, providing three different ride characteristics.  The shocks are also spring preload and crossover adjustable. Can-Am’s high-torque Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering offers three levels of power steering assistance via a dash mounted switch.

A square tire wheel and tire setup features 32×10-14” Maxxis Carnivore tires mounted on 14” cast-aluminum beadlock wheels at all four corners.  Beadlock wheels let you run less pressure when needed, add strength, and will allow you to limp back to camp on a flat tire. We’d expect them on a performance car at this price point, and, amazingly, none of the Polaris Turbo R models utilize them.

Maverick X3 RS models measure in at 72.7” wide with a 102” wheelbase, around two inches narrower and 6 inches longer than the Turbo R. Ground clearance is a claimed 16”, identical to its in-class competitor. The  X3 RS’  68.5” overall height is around six inches lower than the Turbo R.

On paper, the Maverick X3 XRS Turbo RR is class leading in nearly every way. It’s lighter with more horsepower. Its handling is truly sports car-like suspension that seems to do everything well.  After a year and 1,500 miles, we believe the Maverick X3 Turbo RR with Smart Shox definitely lives up to the hype.