Someone who works in our office, who shall remain unnamed for the sake of saving the embarrassment, was completely unaware that six-wheel UTVs existed until just a few days ago.
What Justin didn’t know was this trend of 6x6 machines has actually been going on for well over a decade.
Whoops.
Anyone familiar with buying a utility-focused UTV has inevitably seen the 6x6 configuration and wondered what it was for. Unlike the typical four-wheel UTV, the six by six provides more versatility to get the job done. This all-wheel-drive configuration operates on three axles.
You primarily see this setup on military and heavy-duty off-road vehicles, but there’s plenty of room for it within the lineups of our favorite UTV brands. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 6 wheeled side-by-sides and UTVs on the market and the capabilities they offer users.
Leaders in 6x6 UTVs
While many companies have pumped out their own version of a 6x6, there is one company that is known for their models. Polaris Industries has produced several six-wheel drive ATVs and UTVs. You will find models based on the Magnum, Ranger and Sportsman all with an additional axle and cargo box located over the rear wheels.
While there are numerous Polaris models to consider, let’s take a look at two of the most popular options, both new and older. But first…
Drawbacks to a 6x6 UTV
For the sake of not repeating ourselves, let’s get a few ground rules out of the way. Compared to their four-wheeled counterparts, six-wheeled UTVs:
Are often much more expensive and
Have a much wider turning radius, but
Offer a much higher payload capacity
These are the core reasons why someone either would or would not purchase a 6x6 UTV. If you’re not in need of a hard-working UTV to use on the farm or a job site, you may have never even seen one in the wild. You would have no reason to know these things even exist.
We could almost call you Justin.
Polaris Ranger 6x6
While the Polaris Ranger 6x6 isn’t in production today, there are plenty of used models floating around that are up for grabs. This is one of the company’s most popular 6-wheel UTVs, and for a good reason.
At the time, the Polaris Ranger 6x6 was the highest traction and largest capacity UTV built. It featured a proprietary cargo system, 44 MPH top speed and six-wheel drive traction capability. It also comes complete with a front and independent center plus swing arm rear suspension.
The Polaris cargo box features a carrying capacity of 1,250 pounds plus its cargo volume is more than 15 cubic feet. It also provides 6.25 inches of travel plus 7 inches of ground clearance.
The unique system included in the Ranger detects rear-wheel traction loss automatically and transfers extra torque to both of the front wheels to handle rough terrain.
You can get a closer look at this 6x6 with the YouTube compilation above. It shows the Polaris Ranger 6x6’s capability over rocks, sands and more. As you can see, you would be hard-pressed to find an obstacle this beast can’t handle.
Polaris Ranger 6×6 Specs:
Engine: 683cc (40hp)
Top Speed: 44 mph
Fuel Capacity: 9.0 gal
Transmission: Auto – PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission)
Wheelbase: 90 in
Turning Radius: 186 in
Dry Weight: 1410 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 7.2 in
Box Capacity: 1,250 lbs.
Box Volume: 15 cubic feet
Payload Capacity: 1,750 lbs.
Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs.
Polaris Sportsman 6x6 570
Polaris wasn’t content with just one six wheeled side by side and took things to the next level with the Sportsman 6x6 570. This UTV features a massive 11.25” of ground clearance. Plus, it is equipped with a 44 horsepower ProStar engine that works to propel the on-demand all-wheel drive system to incredible heights.
You can also go harder with this UTV. It comes with 9.5” independent rear suspension, Engine Braking System, Active Descent Control plus Variable Assist Electronic Power Steering. With this off-road vehicle, you can expect 1,500 pounds of towing capacity and 1,115 of payload capacity.
Besides the extensive capacity this vehicle provides, it also offers a smooth, responsive ride. Why use four wheels when you can opt for six instead?
Keep in mind that you can also upgrade the Big Boss for remote jobs and large hunting excursions with over 30 Polaris Engineered Accessories. Add the Yukon Adventure Rack, tie-down points, dry storage accessory box and other features to deck one of these beasts out however you see fit.
You can get a good idea of what this 6x6 SxS is capable of by watching this video. The only downside is the price. Prepare to drop a minimum of $11,399 to own one of these beauties. Guess those extra wheels cost money after all.
Polaris Sportsman 6x6 570 Specs:
Engine: 567cc (44hp)
Top Speed: 50 mph
Fuel Capacity: 6.75 gal
Transmission: Auto – PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission)
Wheelbase: 84 in
Dry Weight: 1075 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 11.5 in
Box Capacity: 800 lbs.
Box Volume: 38 x 39 x 8 in
Payload Capacity: 1,115 lbs.
Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.
Can-Am Outlander Max 6x6 XT 1000
So far we’ve had a heavy focus so far on the Polaris 6x6 models, but you can’t do an article about 6-wheeled UTVs and ATVs without discussing the Can-Am Outlander Max 6x6 XT 1000.
Can-Am has rivaled Polaris for many years thanks to often superior engineering and design. This model proves the company’s capability once again.
Whether you work on the farm or just want to go deep into the woods, this 6x6 ATV makes hauling and towing easier than before. Sure, you have to get used to the ATV-style handlebars as opposed to other UTV models, but everything you need is right there at your fingers. You will find the on/off control, winch controls, throttle, brake and you can also shift between 6x6 and 4x6 mode.
This vehicle, along with others of this body style, also brings a large turn radius with it. If you aren’t used to that, it’s something that takes time adjusting to. Of course, the Rotax 1000 V-Twin engine pumping out 82 horsepower does make for quite a ride.
Overall, the Outlander Max 6x6 is the hardest working ATV that Can-Am has made to date, even in the lighter-duty DPS 650 trim level.
Just take a closer look at this beauty. Remember, that additional power is going to cost you. Prepare to pay at least $16,899 for a new model.
Can-Am Outlander Max 6x6 XT 1000 Specs:
Engine: Rotax 976 cc V-twin, liquid cooled (82hp)
Fuel Capacity: 5.4 gal
Transmission: Auto – CVT
Wheelbase: 90 in
Dry Weight: 1170 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 11 in
Box Capacity: 700 lbs.
Box Volume: 15.9 gallon
Towing Capacity: 1,650 lbs.
Would you drive a 6-wheeled UTV or ATV?
If you’ve never tried one before, what stops you from giving it a go? You might find that you enjoy the additional capacity and versatility. Certainly, these vehicles are a blessing to anyone that needs to haul more or reach distant areas with ease.
If you currently ride a 6x6 UTV or ATV, we would love to hear about your experiences. Leave us a comment letting us know what model you own and what you like about it.
About the Author
Brian Jones is an ASE Certified Master Tech that lives outside of Dallas, TX with his wife and children. He has a passion for old muscle cars, big pickup trucks and anything motorsport related. In his spare time, he does a lot of traveling and writing for dealerships across the country through CarBlogWriters.com.