Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. The Polaris Ranger and Honda Pioneer are tough UTVs that get the job done. They’re both solid machines that can function well in warm or cold weather and take a lot of damage. So what are the differences between the Polaris Ranger and Honda Pioneer? The main differences between the two are comfort and
reliability. The Polaris Ranger boasts of high-tech add-ons, while the Honda Pioneer of unparalleled dependability. While both are purpose-built vehicles, the better of the two depends on personal preference. This guide is a UTV comparison of the Polaris Ranger and Honda Pioneer. It covers specs, features, and pros and cons. It also provides tips on what to consider before making a choice. Let’s take a look at what Honda and
Polaris offer for their 1000-class vehicle: Both UTVs are liquid-cooled and fuel-injected. Noticeable differences are with the bore-stroke ratio, compression, engine fuel, and displacement. The Polaris Ranger is Tier 4-compliant for its diesel-type engines. The same goes for the gasoline-fed Honda Pioneer, but only for models released in California and Canada.
DrivetrainMost consumers would gravitate towards either vehicle, depending on whether they prefer belt-driven over real gears or vice-versa.
IgnitionBoth UTVs have an electric start system. The main difference is in the battery. The Ranger has a 12V, 400-CCA (Cold Crank Amp) battery with an assembled dimension of 6.56 x 5 x 6.88 inches (L x W x H), not including wire harness and mounting accessories. On the other hand, the Pioneer has a 12V, 200-CCA (Cold Crank Amp) battery with an assembled dimension of 5.94 x 3.43 x 5.79 inches (L x W x H). Tires & BrakesFront and rear tires and hydraulic disc brakes are almost similar for both of these quads.
SuspensionThe Honda side by side front suspension provides more inches of travel compared to the Polaris. Other than that, everything else about the suspension is almost similar between the two.
DimensionsDifferences between the two versions are negligible, except for the turning radius and dry weight (highly dependent on which trim you will purchase for each UTV). The Polaris Ranger 1000 is slightly lighter than the Honda Pioneer 1000 due to its aluminum wheels.
Capacities & StorageFor this side by side UTV comparison, the most apparent difference is the fuel tank capacity. The Ranger requires more gallons of diesel compared to the gasoline-fed Pioneer. Furthermore, the Honda payload and cargo box capacity vary depending on where it is released. Honda Pioneers sold in California and Canada have less load capacity than those sold in other states.
ExteriorThe Polaris Ranger and Honda Pioneer are both made up of a steel frame and plastic body material with their respective graphics. They also have similar wattage for their lighting system. Both UTVs come standard with trip odometers, temperature and fuel level warning gauges, power outlets, and glove boxes. Polaris Ranger vs Honda Pioneer Pros and ConsPros – Polaris Ranger 1000The Polaris Ranger 1000 is considered the hardest working and smoothest riding UTV. In terms of power output, it gives out 80 hp, which is 11% more power compared to Honda Pioneer’s 72 hp. Polaris owners attest to their vehicle’s CVT being more efficient in bringing power to the rear wheels. The Ranger is also said to accelerate to 40 mph 22% faster than its Honda counterpart. Its Pro-LockTM True On-Demand All-Wheel Drive automatically brings power to front wheels in cases where forward traction is needed. It is above the competition in terms of smooth riding – thanks to its (industry-exclusive) 3-Mode Throttle Control. Depending on work, standard, or performance mode, the Ranger offers snappy throttle responsiveness and precise maneuverability. The Ranger’s Lock & Ride ProFit cab system effectively seals out water and dust and operates separately from the dump system. Hence, an unpleasant odor is not sealed in the passenger unit. The Polaris Ranger Crew trim can seat up to six people (including the driver), and its adjustable seat slider allows the vehicle to accommodate taller drivers. Also, rear passengers enjoy 3.5 inches or 17% more legroom, as the rear seats are not positioned right above the rear shocks. This rear-shock set up does not take away the Ranger’s hauling capacity even if its passenger load is maxed out. Cons – Polaris Ranger 1000Despite the technology that the Ranger features, the chief complaint of many about the vehicle is its CVT belt. The drive belt is not durable and can break within the first five weeks of use. Some owners claim that their SxS gets serviced every 500 miles, even if the vehicle is not abused. They feel that the horsepower advantage over the Honda Pioneer is useless due to the drive belt’s fragility. If it is not the drive belt that has an issue, it is the rack and pinion steering completely falling apart. The Ranger’s Pro-LockTM True On-Demand All-Wheel Drive does not send power to the front wheels when slowing down, so the rear wheels drag on slippery surfaces. The experience is similar to driving a rear-wheel-drive car, and you downshift too much – it can be pretty scary. Because of this, Polaris has a higher tendency to slide off trails or flip over in icy conditions. Power steering likewise seems a little jerky. And over time, the chassis makes a screeching sound. Other areas for improvement that the Polaris has are its life expectancy, battery location, and tendency to overheat (when you attach a loaded utility trailer to it). In rare situations, the Ranger even catches fire due to the shorting of the winch’s power block. Generally, consumers feel that the all-rounder features of the UTV mask the lack of reliability of the Ranger. Pros – Honda Pioneer 1000For Honda, reliability is king, and Honda fanatics couldn’t agree with this more. The same is true for the Pioneer. Owners claim they have not had a single issue since purchasing the bulletproof tank. The vehicle exhibits good torque and power, with or without trailers attached, and its power steering feels like driving a truck. Consumers also like that the Honda Pioneer’s battery is located under the hood and away from debris. They love Honda for making their 4x4s simple and to the point. The Honda Pioneer 1000 compensates for its less horsepower with lower drivetrain loss than belt-driven machines, including Polaris. This proves that the shaft drive is far superior to the CVT belt, assures its users of no smoked belts or breaking engine, and no grinding or auto noise. The Honda’s real gears make for a smoother ride, especially when going downhill on uneven terrain. The UTV also has a better turning radius and fuel consumption. Cons – Honda Pioneer 1000Unfortunately, the Honda Pioneer’s comfort and smooth riding do not reflect its strength in mechanical and driveline components. For one, sensitivity with the gas pedal and acceleration is not as suave as the Polaris. Shocks are rough partly because of their placement, and the roll cage is too high for toy haulers. Heat under the front seat gets pretty bad and becomes quite uncomfortable, especially if you live in areas with scorching summers like Mississippi. Drivers complain that the doors get stuck halfway sometimes, leaving them little to no room to get out of the cabin. If they do not slam the door shut hard enough, it rattles. Honda UTVs have a two-step latch system where you need to listen for those two clicks, no need to slam the doors shut – but it doesn’t always work. Moreover, there are not many aftermarket accessory options for the Pioneer, unlike Polaris Ranger parts. The Honda Pioneer is also geared way too high in reverse, which may be problematic for beginner riders or those coming from belt-driven UTVs. Plus, the Honda battery is much smaller compared to the Polaris. If you add more electrical accessories, you may need to add a second battery to your Pioneer as the stock battery won’t be sufficient to power all those add-ons. This side-by-side is also heavier than the competition. Honda Pioneer 1000 vs Polaris Ranger 1000: When to UseBeing familiar with each of the vehicles’ specifications and knowing the advantages and disadvantages of owning one are only part of your decision-making process. Here are some more considerations you have to make before deciding to purchase either of the two UTVs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion – Polaris Ranger vs Honda PioneerReliability and comfort distinguish the Honda Pioneer and the Polaris Ranger from one another. The Polaris Ranger may require more visits to the dealer, with its embedded high-tech advancements and engine configuration. The Honda Pioneer may lack the luxury and technology that the Polaris Ranger has, but is a decent trade-off for what you gain in power and reliability. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you will use the vehicle for. Is a Honda Pioneer better than a Polaris Ranger?The main differences between the two are comfort and reliability. The Polaris Ranger boasts of high-tech add-ons, while the Honda Pioneer of unparalleled dependability.
How fast will a Polaris Ranger 1000 run?With a bone-stock setup, you should be able to accelerate the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 to 64 / 65 MPH before the governor kicks on -- 70-80 MPH after a clutch kit and tune. And although it might take a bit longer to get there, these speeds are still achievable with bigger mud tires installed.
How fast is a Honda 1000 Pioneer?Thanks to its capable construction and impressive output of 72 horsepower, the 2020 Pioneer 1000 boasts a whopping top speed of 67 MPH. The 2020 Honda Pioneer 1000 also claims the industry's only fully automatic mechanical transmission—a 6-speed Dual-Clutch.
Do Honda pioneers have transmission problems?Transmission Problems
Sometimes the gear can feel stuck as if it is starting in a higher gear than it is supposed to and may happen until the Honda warms up. You may need to change your oil (provided oil viscosity already checks out, and you are not using motor oil in place of transmission oil).
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