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2009 Polaris Ranger XP review |
Text by: UTVGUIDE.NET2009 Polaris RANGER XP - More rugged styling, improved ergonomics, easier steering, more cab space and exclusive Adjustable Dual A-Arm front suspension
The new 2009 models feature more seat and leg space, reoriented gas and brake pedal for improved operator comfort, new angled-back seat that is similar to a car and a relocated brake lever for operation inside and outside of the vehicle. Polaris also redesigned the steering wheel for better steering with gloves and added standard tilt steering with the highest range of motion for maximum comfort. Along with tilt steering, the new models have a 50 percent easier steering effort which helps maneuverability in tight areas such as farm yards or woods.
Exclusive to RANGER, the new models feature motion ratio and preload suspension adjustment front and rear. The new Dual A-Arm front suspension has two upper shock mounting points on each wheel giving a motion ratio adjustment that dramatically increases stiffness of suspension. The preload adjustment, available on each wheel, increases the initial spring compression for a 30 percent stiffer ride when needed.
“We kept all the features that make a RANGER great, Electronic Fuel Injection, Independent Rear Suspension, Polaris True All-Wheel Drive; and completely re-engineered the rest to include more rugged styling, improved ergonomics, easier steering, more cab space and exclusive Adjustable Dual A-Arm front suspension, to create the next generation of RANGER utility vehicles that work even harder and ride even smoother.”
Seating
It is hard to call the Polaris Ranger XP a "side-by-side" when it is the only UTV with seating for three straight from the factory. We have seen six in them at the sand dunes in Glamis with a custom roll cage and seats in the bed.
Size
The big thing about the Polaris Ranger is its size. This thing is just a lot bigger than a Rhino or RZR. About the same size as the Prowler.
113" Long, 60" Wide and 75" Tall.
Dry weight is 1185 lbs, but it is built to carry 1000lbs. in the bed!
Seat Belts
The lap belt in the Polaris Ranger is fine for utility work, but for sport use, a lap belt is dangerous. If you are going to use for sport/recreation, plan to install a 4 or 5 point harness.
Storage:
There is a lot more storage in the 2009 vs. 2008. Under the hood you will find a small area that is great for tow strap or tools, but it also is setup so you can easily add another battery. Plus there is a bunch of room under the seat and also several new cubby type areas in the dash.
Styling:
Polaris did a great job improving the styling of the 2009 Ranger XP. Much more aggressive looks really set off the vehicle.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for a UTV that is built to do work, but can still get out on the trail and handle the sport side of things, the 2009 Polaris Ranger XP is worth a look. I was very impressed with the cargo handling, braking, ride and fun that can be had in the 2009 Ranger XP. Polaris did a great job with all the refinements made for the 2009 models.
Specifications:
* Engine: 683cc, liquid-cooled, 4-valve, 4-stroke
* Lubrication: Wet sump
* Fuel Capacity: 8.8 gal.
* Oil Capacity: 2 qt.
* Coolant Capacity: 3.25 qt.
* Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection
* Starting: Electric
* Alternator: 500W
* Transmission: CVT Polaris Variable Transmission
* Drive: Lockable rear differential
* Wheelbase: 76”
* Turning Radius: 158”
* Dry Weight: 1,237 lb.
* Length / Width / Height: 114” x; 60” x 76”
* Suspension, Front: Dual A-arm w/9.6” travel
* Suspension, Rear: Independent w/9.0” travel
* Brakes, Front / Rear: Foot-activated 4-wheel hydraulic disc; hand-activated mechanical parking brake
* Tires, Front (XP): 26x8-12
* Tires, Rear (XP): 26x11-12
* Cargo Box Load Capacity: 1000 lb.
* Payload: 1,500 lb. (includes weight of operator, passenger(s), cargo and accessories)
* Hitch Tongue Capacity: 150 lb.
* Towing Capacity: 2,000 lb.
* Headlights: Standard (2 x 50W)
* 12V DC Plug: Standard
* Brake Light: Standard LED
