With the new Ranger XD 1500 UTV, Polaris almost crosses the line into truck territory. With a three-quarter ton rating, in some ways, this side-by-side UTV surpasses full-size half-ton trucks as it is. Its intent is as a utility truck for farms and job sites, but that’s only because it isn’t licensed for road use. However, the Ranger XD 1500 almost could be as it sits.

For starters, the side-by-side gets its power from a 110 hp three-cylinder engine, which Polaris designed and manufactures. The 1.5-liter also rates at 105 lb-ft of torque. Because they’re lightweight, at just under 2,500 lbs, that’s a lot of grunt, which translates into great payload and towing numbers. 

What is the Polaris Ranger’s payload and towing capacity?

These engines are a four-stroke DOHC off-road workhorse. Featuring electronic fuel injection, they start right up and respond well to throttle adjustments. We start getting into Ford Maverick territory with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a payload of 2,100 lbs. 

Helping to deliver that power is a liquid-cooled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Rather than using a composite belt, Polaris says the Ranger XD incorporates a steel belt instead. Part of the advantage of these UTVs is they don’t need to suppress sounds like road-going trucks. 

How big is the Polaris Ranger cargo bed?

Only one bed comes with the UTC, measuring 43.4 inches long, 56 inches wide, and 13.4 inches deep, with aluminum construction. The cargo box also features a 12-volt plug. Rugged terrain shouldn’t be a problem with 15 inches of ground clearance. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard. 

Looking inside, you might think you’re looking at a truck interior. From the overhead shot that Polaris supplies, judging its scale is even a problem. The design and layout look full-size, with the only telltale sign being the lack of a giant screen. 

But it features a seven-inch screen, which is probably all you’ll need. The screen includes functions like maps, the JBL audio system, and more mundane controls. Climate-control air conditioning, telescopic steering wheel, heated seats, power windows, and other on-road truck features are part of the Ranger XD 1500 package. As we said, it rivals road-going pickups and SUVs. 

How much is it?

Prices range depending on trims, too. An open single-seat Premium version comes in right at $30,000. When going for the top-of-the-line Northstar Edition, that price bumps up to $45,000. Moving to the two-seat Ranger XD, prices start at $32,500, while grabbing the Northstar Edition maxes out at $50,500. So, yeah, the pricing is also on par with the Ford Maverick. 

Polaris also sells a variety of accessories for the Ranger XD. Various brush guards, cargo systems, accessory lights, and much more help buyers personalize the UTV to their needs.