$32,999 MSRP / 114 HP

• a true adventure sxs

• available heat + A/C

• sealed, locking cab

The ultimate family rig.

When it comes to getting the whole family outside for some fun, few machines are better equipped for the job than 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV5. Polaris markets this machine as the first true adventure side-by-side—a rig that pairs the performance of a sport machine like a Polaris RZR with the practicality of a utility vehicle like the Polaris Ranger.

Designed from the ground up to offer a fully sealed and lockable cab, and available with factory heat and air-conditioning, this is the Toyota 4Runner of side-by-sides.

How much power does it make?

The Xpedition’s 999-cc parallel twin makes 114 hp. That’s a respectable number, but keep in mind this is a heavy machine. In ADV 5 (i.e., five-passenger) Northstar (i.e., top-shelf) trim, the X weighs a whopping 2916 pounds. That’s nearly 600 pounds more than a Mazda Miata, and that Japanese roadster has 67 more horsepower.

Throw five people and their gear into a big Xpedition and clamp the optional factory roof tent up top, those 114 horses often don’t feel like enough.

What makes it special?

There’s no other side-by-side with this form factor, period. Sure, the market currently holds plenty of full-cab machines with heat and A/C. But none have an enclosed, lockable back hatch area like the Xpedition’s, and none of them offer fold-flat rear seats. This is also the only rig on the market that can be had with a factory rooftop tent.

Why do I want it?

The Xpedition is maybe the most comfortable side-by-side on sale, especially in five-passenger (ADV 5) Northstar guise. The sealed cab, windshield wiper, and HVAC keep the dust and mud at bay, which means you and your gear stay tidy.

For those looking to do some moderate wheeling with the whole family, or those who want a machine that can serve as a base of operations for backcountry hiking or hunting, the Xpedition is hard to beat.

Why don’t I want it?

Again, the Xpedition’s powertrain lets it down. And not just because the engine doesn’t always feel up to the job. That 1.0-liter parallel twin is thrashy and loud, two things you definitely don’t want in a machine you’re going to spend all day in. Polaris has been working to address complaints—recent mechanical updates have helped reduce the amount of heat and noise that make their way into the Xpedition’s cabin. But there’s still a ways to go.

Which trim do I want?

Easy: Five seats, so ADV 5, and Northstar, the more expensive of the Xpedition’s two trim levels. At $44,999, that configuration isn’t cheap, but it’s the one you want. The long wheelbase keeps occupants further from the engine’s “charm,” and it also improves ride and handling without giving up much in the way of performance. Plus, the spacious interior rocks. Bonus points for that lockable back hatch, the HVAC, and power windows.

If I like this… what else should I look at?

The Xpedition ADV has no direct competition. That said, if you’re willing to give up the sealed cab, the Polaris General, the Yamaha RMAX, and the Can-Am Commander are each worth a look.

2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV Specs

NOTE: Five-seat versions of the Xpedition ADV are sold as the Xpedition ADV 5.

Length: 122.5 in. (ADV) / 152.5 in. (ADV 5)

Width: 64 in.

Height: 74.9 in.

Wheelbase: 87.5 in. (ADV) / 117 in. (ADV 5)

Curb Weight:  2501 lbs. (ADV) / 2577 lbs. (ADV 5)

Engine: Parallel-twin

Displacement: 999 cc / 1.0-liter

Transmission: CVT with park, reverse, neutral, low, and high

Claimed Power: 114 hp

Claimed Torque: N/A

Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection

Steering: Electric Power Steering

Drivetrain: On-demand all-wheel drive with 2WD and selectable locking rear differential

Front Suspension: High-clearance dual A-arm

Rear Suspension: High-clearance dual A-arm

Front Brakes: Hydraulic discs w/ two-piston calipers

Rear Brakes: Hydraulic discs w/ two-piston calipers

Wheels F/R: Cast aluminum; 14-in.

Tires F/R: Pro Armor Crawler XP; 30×10-15 (front) / Pro Armor Crawler XP; 30×11-15 (rear)

Bed Capacity: 600 lbs.

Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs.

Seating Capacity: 2 (ADV) / 5 (ADV 5)

Ground Clearance: 14 in.

Fuel Capacity: 12.5 gal.