DIRTHAMMER SAYS

In a past life, I was lucky enough to be invited on the launch of the Polaris Xpedition when it debuted for the 2024 model year. I had been around the block a few times by then, but nothing prepared me for how excellent Polaris' new machine would be. Polaris launched the Xpedition to take a share of the overlanding market, and they nailed the details. This is the ADV model, which was a revolution when it launched. With an enclosed cab like an SUV, it offers HVAC, a stereo, and locking storage for camping and overnight gear. Even better, thanks to the flat roof, it will accommodate a rooftop tent.

The model also introduced the ProStar II parallel twin, a reworked, 114-horsepower version of Polaris' long-serving 999cc ProStar mill. The Xpedition uses Polaris' ubiquitous PVT continuously variable automatic. The combo is very reliable, powerful enough to haul the rig and a weekend's worth of gear around, and it's playful when you go past half throttle. The Xpedition also gets Polaris' three-mode throttle control and VeraTrac turf mode, which unlocks the rear diff to save your grass.

The real party starts inside, though, where you get electric windows, heating and air conditioning, Polaris' brilliant RideCommand infotainment system, a JBL stereo, a locking center console storage box, and a soft-touch headliner. The rear cargo area and the front doors lock, too, to keep your gear and valuables secure.

This 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV Northstar is in our favorite color, Orange Rust. It has all the standard Northstar luxuries, and a few choice mods to make life on the trail easier. You get 15-inch System3 SB-6 beadlock wheels, 33-inch System3 ATX 470 tires, Polaris accessory fender flares, Polaris accessory tree kickers, and an upgraded 6,000-pound Polaris winch. There's also a roof-mounted light bar and the side and rear windows are rocking 5% tint.

Our favorite mod is in the cargo area, where the seller built a custom mount for three Milwaukee Packout racks. That makes secure storage a non-issue, and the install is super clean and well executed. The original cargo tray comes with the machine but is not installed.