There are many common parts between the new Ranger 1000 and the top of the line Ranger XP1000, and the most important part is the ProStar engine. To make sure that was not a problem Polaris gave this Ranger 1000 the same brake system as found on the heavy duty Ranger XP 1000. It’s not enough to just get a load rolling, you also have to stop it safely. With increased towing and hauling capabilities comes a secondary concern however braking. Wheel travel is listed at 10” at each end, with 12” of ground clearance on 25” tires which is more than enough for a supple ride over trail obstacles or rough fields. At the front are dual A-arms for a smooth ride, and the rear offers independent control arms. Suspension bushings are now fully sealed, further quieting the ride, and the engine is under the rear bed, again pushing the noise to the rear. That means it is much more rigid, but also quieter thanks to fewer bolted joints. Rather than bolting several individual pieces together, this chassis is a one-piece, fully welded design. Polaris gave the Ranger 1000 an all new chassis and we really like it. Best of all, the seat bases offer 25% more padding for extra comfort, with contoured surfaces to help hold you in place. Down below, there is plenty of room for your feet and a textured floorboard helps grip your boots and hold your feet in place.
All controls are easily accessed by the driver, and a large, digital display is just ahead of the steering wheel, right where it should be. We absolutely love the flip up seats and huge storage bins beneath, but there is storage under the dash, 6 cup holders, and sealed storage in the dash as well. Polaris went all out with the cab interior of the Ranger 1000. Remember, this is a machine not afraid of any work. The bed sides even get a textured surface to hide scuffs and scrapes which are bound to happen. The bed is identical to the one on the Ranger XP 1000, with taller sides, a sloped bottom that drains easily, and pockets for integration of Polaris accessories. A sturdy, steel tube bumper protects the front end, and it even includes a loop for strapping the Ranger down to your trailer.Īt the rear of the Ranger 1000 is a cavernous cargo box that can haul more than ever before. It shows the Polaris engineering team considered ease of maintenance, which is a big part of ownership. Another great feature is the grill insert which, without any tools, can easily be removed for cleaning and then snapped back into place. They’re even marked for position and it makes adding accessories quick and easy. Under the front hood are electrical connections and a bus bar that is pre-wired for adding accessories.
We especially like the front nose which sits slightly higher than on previous models, yet doesn’t limit the drivers view over the hood. It flows nicely across different body panels and surfaces, and it presents a bold, capable look. Polaris did a great job with the bodywork. The first thing we like about the new Ranger 1000 is the styling. Option packages that allow you to outfit the Ranger exactly as you need it, right from the factoryīest Ranger pricing ever, beginning at $12,999īefore we drive any new vehicle we take a close look at the details. Tighter turning radius for increased maneuverabilityĭeeper cargo bed sides for increased capacity New comfort cab with increased storage, more leg room, and easier entry / exit. New 1000cc ProStar engine tuned for drive-ability and torqueĢ,500 lb. New, one piece chassis for less flex and chassis noise, and increased strength What Polaris came up with is truly impressive. Above all, it needed to not only offer value to the user in capability, but in price. You don’t replace a legend without very carefully considering all the implications, and you can bet the Polaris planning team had some long discussions on just what the new Ranger would need. Still, as all legends eventually are, it too was slated for retirement. The Ranger has never strayed far from its working class roots, but their recreational capabilities are outstanding, and the Ranger 900 grew to become a legend.
There have been several generations since, with advancements in performance, handling, and comfort that have made the Ranger one of the most successful vehicles of all time. Thoughts of recreation were little more than one would apply to a tractor. When Polaris introduced the first Ranger two decades ago it joined the ranks of the John Deere Gator and the Kawasaki Mule, both strictly utility vehicles dedicated to long days of toiling away on ranches and construction sites.