When it comes to picking the right side-by-side vehicle, the choice can be tough. Do you want the power and performance of a Can-Am Defender? Or the comfort and convenience of a Honda Pioneer?
You may think now, which is better to pick between Can-Am Defender vs Honda Pioneer. Though both are great vehicle but they have some differences that make one is better than the other.
Both vehicles have their own unique benefits, and the better choice will vary based on factors such as budget, off-road usage, and personal preferences. Ultimately, it’s your decision whatever you choose according to your needs.
In this article, we’ll try to share the differences between these two popular side-by-sides vehicles. It will help you to make the best decision for your needs. So, keep reading this article and pick the right one.
Can-Am Defender VS Honda Pioneer- Head to Head Comparison
Can-Am Defender and Honda Pioneer are two popular off-road vehicles known for their durability, versatility, and performance. However, deciding between these two vehicles can be challenging. Here are some key differences between the Can-Am Defender VS Honda Pioneer that will help you make decisions.
Engine Specs
Engine is one of the most important parts for a vehicle. In this case, the Can-Am Defender comes with a V-twin Rotax engine that pumps out 82 horsepower and 61 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Honda Pioneer has a single-cylinder engine that offers just 20 horsepower and 18 lb-ft of torque.
The Can-Am Defender also has a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs, while the Honda Pioneer maxes out at 1,000 lbs. The Honda Pioneer might have an edge in fuel economy, but when it comes to sheer power, the Can-Am Defender is the clear winner.
Suspension
When it comes to the suspension comparison of the Can-Am Defender VS Honda Pioneer, it’s clear that the Honda Pioneer has the upper hand. The Honda Pioneer has dual A-arms suspension in the front and rear while the Can-Am Defender only has a single A-arm suspension in the rear. This gives the Honda Pioneer a smoother ride overall.
The Honda Pioneer also has a better turning radius than the Can-Am Defender, making it easier to navigate tight spaces. Its brakes are also more responsive, meaning you can stop on a dime when needed.
The Can-Am Defender does have one key advantage over the Honda Pioneer: its towing capacity. With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds compared to 1,000 pounds for the Honda Pioneer, the Can-Am Defender can tow heavier loads with ease. So, if you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle heavy-duty tasks, the Can-AM Defender is your best bet.
Performance
Now that we have a better understanding of the two vehicles, let’s take a look at their performance.
Starting with the Honda Pioneer, it has a max engine size of 700cc. This is impressive, but the Can-Am Defender beats it with a max engine size of 900cc.
Not only does the Can-Am Defender have a larger engine, but it can also tow more weight. The Pioneer can tow up to 1,500 lbs., while the Defender can tow up to 3,000 lbs. This makes the Defender the clear winner when it comes to towing capacity.
The Honda Pioneer also falls short when it comes to cargo space. With a max cargo capacity of 400 lbs., the Pioneer can only carry about half as much as the Defender’s max cargo capacity of 800 lbs. This is definitely something to consider if you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle your heavy loads.
But don’t forget about the Honda Pioneer’s impressive performance specs! It can reach speeds of up to 50 mph, while the Can-Am Defender tops out at 45 mph. So, if you’re looking for a faster vehicle, the Pioneer might be a better choice for you.
Towing Capacity
The towing capacity is one of the most important factors when choosing between Can-Am Defender vs Honda Pioneer. The Can-Am Defender is capable of towing up to 2,000 lbs, while the Honda Pioneer can tow up to 1,500 lbs. So in this regard, the Can-Am Defender comes out on top in terms of raw towing power.
However, when it comes to actually using this towing power, the Honda Pioneer has an edge. The Honda Pioneer’s lower weight and lower center of gravity make it easier to tow heavy loads over rough terrain. The Can-Am Defender may be able to pull more weight, but it can’t handle the same terrain that the Honda Pioneer can.
In terms of raw power and potential uses, the Can-Am Defender wins out when it comes to towing capacity. However, if you plan on actually using your machine for off-road applications or steep inclines and declines with heavy loads, then the Honda Pioneer is probably your best bet.
Cargo Space
If you’re looking for extra cargo space, the Can-Am Defender offers more options. The Defender has a 600-lb box cargo capacity with an additional 500-lb capacity on the rear rack. The front rack also doubles as a storage container; this is great for carrying tools, camping gear, and other items.
The Defender has larger payload capacity than the Honda Pioneer, allowing more cargo to be hauled in one trip. The Can-Am can carry up to 1,500 lbs of payload compared to the Honda Pioneer’s 1,000 lbs limit. This is ideal if you need to transport heavier items such as lumber or heavier construction materials.
If you’re looking for overall cargo space, then I would recommend that you go with the Can-Am Defender. It offers more storage space than its competitor and its features make it perfect for hauling heavier loads in one trip.
Comfort
Now it’s time to find out which one’s more comfortable to drive. The Can-Am Defender offers an impressive cabin. It has a very roomy cabin and the seating is adjustable, so you can choose your desired seating position. And since the cab is fairly large, it offers plenty of legroom as well.
The adjustable tilt steering wheel also makes life a lot easier – you can adjust it to the angle that’s most comfortable for you. The digital display also helps you customize the settings very easily and quickly.
On the other hand, Honda Pioneer has a slightly cramped cabin and the seating isn’t adjustable either. But if you’re looking for a smoother ride, then this is definitely your best option. The low center of gravity helps the driver have better control over the vehicle in tight corners and off-road terrain.
As far as comfort goes, it really comes down to personal preference. Do you prefer a larger cabin with adjustable seating or a tighter fit with smoother rides? Pick the right one according to your needs.
Price
When it comes to the cost of the Can-Am Defender and Honda Pioneer, the former is more expensive. That said, the price difference isn’t too drastic, and it really depends on what features you’re looking for.
For instance, if you want a base model Honda Pioneer that only has two seats, then you’ll be paying around $10,999. On the other hand, the base model Can-Am Defender will cost around $14,499.
And if you want to upgrade either one of these machines with additional features like adjustable suspension and power steering, then expect to pay more.
As far as which one is better in terms of price and value for money goes, it really depends on your budget and what your needs are.
The Honda Pioneer may be more affordable upfront, but the Can-Am Defender may be more suited for off-roading enthusiasts who are looking for something powerful and feature-rich.
Can-Am Defender vs Honda Pioneer- The Winner
It’s impossible to objectively determine which side is the clear winner, as everyone’s criteria for a great UTV will be different. To some, the Honda Pioneer is perfect while the Can-Am Defender leaves something to be desired.
The Honda Pioneer has proven itself as a reliable and capable farm workhorse that can endure a tough work day. Boasting comfort and convenience, you will be able to tackle your tasks with ease in the Pioneer. But at the same time, if you’re looking for something more powerful, then the Can-Am Defender will not let you down.
If you plan to take your UTV in rough terrain, then the Defender is definitely one of your top considerations. Even when it comes to family fun, there are plenty of options that make it ideal for recreational purposes such as its class-leading storage capacity and adjustable seating.
The only way to know for sure is to try them both out—you may find one clicks better than the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Can-Am defenders any good?
The 2022 Can-Am Defender is a versatile thoroughbred of a workhorse. Its chassis and powertrain are rugged enough to tackle a variety of conditions.
Is the Can-Am Defender a good trail rider?
Yes, the Can-Am Defender is a great trail rider. It is built to handle rough terrain and has plenty of power to get you through tough climbs. It also has a comfortable ride and is packed with features that make it an ideal trail machine.
Is Polaris better than Can-Am?
The Can-Am has a slightly larger engine at 999cc compared to the 976cc Polaris Ranger engine. Both are regarded as some of the sturdiest UTVs around, and this shines through in their engine performance. If you need to know you have a bigger engine, Can-Am is the way to go. If you don’t, then go Polaris.
How fast will a Can-Am Defender go?
The Defender’s class-leading HD10 engine makes 82 hp and 69 pound-feet of torque, which means this UTV makes good speed. With the right combination of setup and road surface, Can-Am says the Defender can hit 62 mph.
Is the Honda Pioneer 700 any good?
The Honda Pioneer 700 and 700-4 are the second step in Honda’s line of dual-purpose UTVs. They’re rugged and reasonably capable, with a 1,000-pound bed capacity and 1,500-pound tow rating. We love the DCT automatic transmission, which makes engine braking a nonissue and means no drive belt changes.
Final Thought
At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you need and want from your vehicle. If you need something that can handle off-road terrain easily and is still comfortable and spacious, the Can-Am Defender is the perfect choice.
However, if you’re looking for a vehicle that’s a bit more luxurious and can handle heavier towing, the Honda Pioneer is a better option.
In this article, we try to make a comparison between Can-Am Defender VS Honda Pioneer so that you can pick the right vehicle. Hopefully, this small effort will be helpful for all of you. Thank you all.
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