Polaris introduces 'Sportsman ACE' ATV

"This is a completely new proposition for the Australian ATV and side x side market," said Polaris Australia & New Zealand Managing Director, Peter Alexander.

"This is a vehicle that encompasses the very best features of both ATVs and side x sides, with unrivalled capabilities for the Australian farmer, coupled with outstanding performance for weekend recreational riders."

Set for local release in April, the new model combines the nimble ATV performance of the Sportsman with safety features previously reserved for Polaris's larger Ranger and RZR UTVs and side-by-side vehicles, the Sportsman Ace features a revolutionary, sit-in chassis (single seat only), three-point seat belt and steering wheel control.

Importantly for the rural sector, and in particular following safety concerns with these sorts of vehicles on the farm, the design is considered far safer than conventional ATVs, particular in roll-over accidents.

Compact at only 121.9cms wide, the Sportsman Ace features 26.04cm of ground clearance and 24.1cm of rear suspension travel, thanks to a full IRS system that features adjustable preload on the twin tube performance shockers.

Power comes from an all-new 32 horsepower ProStar EFI engine featuring an internal counter-balance shaft and engine management system. The DOHC and 4-valve cylinder head work to deliver impressive power and instant, predictable throttle response; while the lightweight efficient transmission captures every ounce of power to deliver it to the ground.

The engine design reduces internal friction which in turn dramatically reduces noise and significantly increases efficiency; Polaris say the ProStar is the most fuel-efficient engine they've ever offered. Fuel tank is 19.87 litres.

Drive is via the same On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system found on all Polaris off-road vehicles. The system automatically engages when the rider/operator needs more forward traction and then reverts back to two-wheel drive when AWD is no longer needed. Four-wheel disc brakes are linked, with braided stainless steel brake lines for optimum response and minimal fade.

In addition to the unique ROPS cab frame, the Sportsman Ace features optional accessory front and rear brushguards, rock sliders and wheel and tyre packages to enable the vehicle to be customised to suit extremely rough terrain of specific purposes.

The operator centre features an adjustable, high-backed bucket seat, while the steering wheel is also adjustable. A 3-point seat belt with side bolsters keeps the operator properly positioned in the centre of the machine. The steering wheel offers 8.9 cm of tilt adjustment and the driver's seat slides back and forth by 10.2 cm, with an integrated left-foot dead pedal and integrated right-foot heel pocket.

Despite the roll cage, cockpit entry/exit is claimed to be easy, while new side nets feature a metal rod to easily secure them both for clipping and positioning the nets to the back of the vehicle while exiting. Doors are available as optional accessories, as is a 'Lock & Ride' roof, windshield and rear panel for wet weather use. Powerful halogen lighting is standard.

Storage features include an integrated 10.6 litre semi-dry, front storage compartment, and a high-capacity Lock & Ride cargo box with rack extenders and rear tie-down rails. An accessory Lock & Ride cargo box for additional dry storage means the Sportsman Ace is capable of carrying up to 260kg of gear.

The Ace is also pre-wired for the installation of a winch (not fitted) with up to 3,500 lb/1587 kg of capacity. Towing capacity is 680 kg.

"The introduction of the Sportsman ACE is part of our strategy to remain the leader in the powersports marketplace by introducing innovative products that define their categories," said David Longren, vice president of Polaris' Off-Road Division.

"In creating the Sportsman ACE, we wanted to not only appeal to current farmers, commercial users and off-road enthusiasts, but develop a vehicle that brings new customers to both work and recreation. We accomplished this by coupling an easy-to-use, nimble platform with a confident and secure ride that, together, provides drivers with an entirely new experience."

The Polaris Sportsman ACE will be available in authorized Polaris dealers from April, 2014. For more information or to book a test ride with your local dealer, please visit www.polarisindustries.com.au.

Key Features of Sportsman Ace
- Powerful 32 HP ProStar Engine
- Unique single passenger cab design gives a whole new off-road experience

Confident and Secure
- On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive
- Unique single passenger cab design
- 3-Point Seatbelt
- Protective Netting
- Assured Stopping Power with Four-Wheel/Four-Disc Braking System

Comfort and Convenience
- Bolstered Bucket Seat with 10.2cm of adjustability
- Easy Ingress and Egress with Flat Floor Plan
- Adjustable Steering for optimum control
- 260kg Rack and Storage Capacity
- Integrated Foot Rest
- Integrated Accessory Door System
- Convertible Rear Cargo Box
- 680kg Towing Capacity
- Powerful Halogen Lighting

Easy to Ride
- Independent Rear Suspension with 24.1cm of Suspension Travel
- 19.87L Fuel Tank with Electronic Fuel Injection
- Rider Centric Design

Compact and Nimble
- Low-Center of Gravity for Stable and Responsive Ride
- 32 HP ProStar Engine with Dual Overhead Cams
- Trail Compliant 121.9cm Width
- 156cm wheelbase
- Lightweight Transmission for Efficient Power Transfer
- 26.04cm Ground Clearance