Can-Am’s 2027 side-by-side lineup expands the new-generation Defender platform, introduces a broad family of work-focused Defender XU packages and adds more standard equipment across the Maverick X3 range. The Commander, Maverick Trail, Maverick Sport and 240-horsepower Maverick R also return for 2027.
The biggest story is not an all-new sport UTV. It is the way Can-Am has reorganized and expanded the Defender family. Buyers can now choose between the established first-generation Defender, the newer HD10/HD11 platform and XU-equipped versions built specifically around work. Meanwhile, every 2027 Maverick X3 receives a roof, half doors and window nets as standard equipment.
Here is what is new—and what carries over—in the complete 2027 Can-Am UTV lineup.
2027 Can-Am UTV Lineup at a Glance
| Model family | Starting MSRP | What matters for 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Defender HD7/HD9/HD10 | $12,999 | First-generation Defender remains as the value-oriented utility lineup |
| Defender HD10/HD11 | $19,799 | New-generation platform now offers 80-hp HD10 and 95-hp HD11 triple-cylinder engines |
| Defender XU HD10/HD11 | $19,799 | New factory work equipment offered across several Gen 2 packages |
| Defender XU PRO/6×6 HD10 | $25,399 | Work-equipped Gen 1 models with a 72-inch modular cargo bed |
| Commander | $14,199 | Versatile recreational/utility family carries forward |
| Maverick Trail | $15,499 | 50-inch trail UTV returns |
| Maverick Sport | $18,499 | Recreational trail family returns |
| Maverick X3 | $19,999 | Full roof, half doors and window nets are now standard throughout the lineup |
| Maverick R | $39,699 | All configurations gain the transmission with Extra Low gearing previously used by MAX and X rc models |
Starting MSRPs exclude transportation, preparation and other dealer charges. Prices and availability can vary by package and color.
2027 Can-Am Defender: Two Generations Remain Available
The 2027 Defender lineup is easier to understand when it is divided into two platforms. The Defender HD7, HD9 and traditional HD10 models use the established first-generation architecture. The Defender HD10/HD11 family uses the redesigned platform introduced with the 2026 Defender HD11.
The first-generation models remain important because they give buyers a lower-cost entry point and retain familiar, proven powertrains. The base 2027 Defender starts at $12,999, while XT, cab and MAX configurations continue to provide several levels of equipment.
The new-generation Defender moves upmarket with a redesigned chassis, wider stance, revised cab, improved suspension, quieter operation, easier service access and more available technology. For the complete evolution of the platform, see our Can-Am Defender history.
HD10 and HD11 Triple-Cylinder Engines
For 2027, the new-generation Defender is available with two versions of Can-Am’s naturally aspirated 999cc Rotax ACE inline-three:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| HD10 | 80 hp | 65 lb-ft | 999cc naturally aspirated inline-three |
| HD11 | 95 hp | 70 lb-ft | 999cc naturally aspirated inline-three |
Both engines use a pDrive primary clutch and Quick Response System CVT with Electronic Drive Belt Protection. Depending on the package, the front differential is either Quick-4Lok or Smart-Lok. Buyers comparing the generations can read our detailed Can-Am Defender HD10 vs. HD11 comparison.
The HD11 is not merely a higher-output version. On the Defender XT, the HD11 is paired with 29-inch XPS Trail King 2 tires and arched front and rear A-arms, producing 14 inches of ground clearance. The HD10 version uses 27-inch tires, conventional A-arms and 13 inches of clearance. Both provide 12 inches of suspension travel.
2027 Defender XT HD10/HD11
The new-generation Defender XT is the starting point for the 80-hp HD10 and 95-hp HD11 choices. Standard XT equipment includes Quick-4Lok, Dynamic Power Steering, a speed limiter, brake-holding mechanism, 4,500-pound winch with synthetic cable and autostop, full HMW plastic skid plate, full hard roof, heavy-duty front bumper, mudguards and LED lighting.
Utility ratings include a 1,000-pound cargo-box capacity, 1,500-pound payload capacity and 2,500-pound towing capacity. The open-cab XT does not include HVAC.
Defender Cab, Limited, Lone Star and X mr Packages
Can-Am continues to offer several Defender configurations beyond the open-cab XT. XT CAB packages add an enclosed cab while Limited models build around factory heat, ventilation and air conditioning, power windows and premium interior equipment. The most highly equipped new-generation models can also include the 10.25-inch wireless touchscreen, front and rear cameras and upgraded audio.
Lone Star packages retain their distinctive styling, larger tires, protective equipment and premium cab features. Mud-focused Defender X mr models continue with Smart-Lok, mud tires, a winch, raised intakes and terrain-specific protection. Buyers should pay close attention to the engine and platform listed with each package because Can-Am sells first- and second-generation Defenders side by side for 2027.
Our Defender HD11 guide covers the new-generation chassis and technology, while our Defender X mr HD11 guide examines the specialized mud package.
Can-Am Defender XU Limited HD11
What Is the 2027 Can-Am Defender XU Package?
XU is Can-Am’s new factory work-equipment designation. It is not a completely separate chassis or engine, and it does not replace familiar package names such as XT, Limited or Lone Star. Instead, XU adds a group of job-oriented components to those existing Defender configurations.
The core XU equipment consists of:
- A metal headache rack that helps protect the rear of the cab and supports tall cargo
- A low bed-wall extension that increases usable cargo-box height by approximately 16 inches
- Two LinQ tool holders
- A factory-installed trailer hitch ball mount
That explains names such as Defender XU XT, Defender XU XT CAB and Defender XU Limited. The second part of the name still identifies the underlying comfort and equipment package; XU identifies the added work hardware.
XU Is Available on More Than the Defender 6×6
The XU name is not limited to six-wheel models. Can-Am offers it across two different Defender groups for 2027.
The new-generation HD10/HD11 XU family includes:
- Defender XU XT
- Defender XU XT CAB
- Defender XU Limited
- Defender XU MAX XT
- Defender XU MAX XT CAB
- Defender XU MAX Lone Star CAB
- Defender XU MAX Limited
The first-generation work family includes:
- Defender XU PRO XT
- Defender XU PRO Limited
- Defender XU 6×6 XT
- Defender XU 6×6 Limited
This gives buyers a choice between a relatively straightforward open-cab XT work machine and premium enclosed models with HVAC, power windows and other comfort equipment. In other words, a buyer can combine XU’s headache rack, bed extension, tool holders and hitch-ball mount with Limited or Lone Star equipment rather than choosing between work features and cab comfort.
Defender XU PRO and XU 6×6
The XU PRO and 6×6 deserve separate treatment because they remain on the first-generation Defender HD10 platform. Their 976cc Rotax V-twin produces 82 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque rather than using the newer 999cc triple-cylinder HD10/HD11 engine.
Both are built around a 72 x 54.5 x 10-inch modular cargo bed—considerably longer than the 38-inch bed fitted to a conventional Defender. The XU PRO uses the standard four-wheel chassis, while the XU 6×6 adds selectable four- and six-wheel drive for traction and load-carrying work. Both have a power-tilt bed.
The XU PRO XT starts at $25,399 and the XU 6×6 XT starts at $26,099. Limited versions add a fully enclosed HVAC cab, power windows, 30-inch XPS Trac Force tires and additional premium equipment. The XU PRO Limited starts at $34,299, while the XU 6×6 Limited starts at $35,099.
For an owner’s perspective on the six-wheel platform, read our Can-Am Defender 6×6 review.
How the XU Fits Between XT and Limited
The easiest way to think about the packages is by function. XT adds protection, a roof, winch and trail/work equipment. Limited adds an enclosed HVAC cab and premium comfort. XU adds the job-specific cargo and towing hardware. Because XU can be combined with XT or Limited, it is best understood as a work-oriented equipment layer rather than a conventional trim rung.
2027 Can-Am Commander
The Commander returns as Can-Am’s crossover between recreational trail performance and practical utility. It remains available in two- and four-seat MAX configurations with a tilting cargo box, making it better suited to hauling and property work than the dedicated Maverick sport models.
The 2027 Commander starts at $14,199. The Commander XT starts at $15,499, while the four-seat Commander MAX XT starts at $21,999. The XT packages add equipment such as a full roof, XT front bumper, 4,500-pound winch and 28-inch XPS Trail King tires.
There is no major new Commander platform or powertrain for 2027. It continues as the do-it-all alternative for buyers who want more cargo utility than a Maverick Sport without moving to a Defender.
2027 Can-Am Maverick Trail
The Maverick Trail remains Can-Am’s 50-inch-wide side-by-side for width-restricted trail systems. It uses a compact two-seat layout and Ergo-Lok cockpit while retaining the narrow overall width needed for many designated ATV and UTV routes.
Starting MSRP rises to $15,499 for 2027. The core platform carries forward rather than receiving a major redesign.
2027 Can-Am Maverick Sport
2027 Can-Am Maverick Sport
The Maverick Sport also returns for 2027, positioned above the 50-inch Maverick Trail with a wider chassis, more suspension capability and packages aimed at general trail riding, technical terrain and mud.
The lineup starts at $18,499. Specialized X packages continue to offer upgraded FOX suspension, additional ground clearance and terrain-specific equipment. No major new engine or chassis is announced for the 2027 Maverick Sport.
2027 Can-Am Maverick X3 X rc
2027 Can-Am Maverick X3 Adds More Standard Equipment
The Maverick X3 receives one of the most straightforward—and useful—updates in the 2027 lineup. A full hard roof, premium half doors and window nets are now standard throughout the family. Previously, equipment levels varied more widely by package.
This does not transform the X3 mechanically, but it makes the base machines more complete when they leave the dealership. The 2027 lineup continues to span 64- and 72-inch widths, two- and four-seat MAX bodies, and outputs ranging from 135 to 200 horsepower.
The 64-inch Maverick X3 DS starts at $19,999, while the 72-inch X3 RS starts at $21,999. The premium 64-inch Maverick X3 X returns with updated styling and lighting introduced for 2026, along with its 10.25-inch touchscreen, rear camera and trail-focused equipment.
Terrain-specific Turbo RR packages also remain, including X ds, X rs, X rc and X mr models. The X rc continues as the rock-crawling choice with 32-inch XPS Hammer King tires, 15-inch beadlock wheels, FOX 3.0 Podium RC2 shocks, underbody protection, rock sliders and an intrusion bar.
2027 Can-Am Maverick R Max
2027 Can-Am Maverick R
The 240-horsepower Maverick R returns as Can-Am’s flagship high-performance side-by-side with an important drivetrain upgrade: every 2027 Maverick R configuration receives the transmission with the lower Low-range gearing previously used by the Maverick R MAX and X rc.
The original two-seat Maverick R transmission had a relatively tall Low range suited more to speed than precise crawling. The MAX received substantially lower gearing to help move its additional weight, and Can-Am also used that lower range in the X rc to improve slow-speed control. Standardizing the lower-geared transmission across the 2027 family gives every Maverick R better control in rocks, steep climbs and technical terrain.
Can-Am now describes the seven-speed Rotax dual-clutch transmission as having High and Extra Low ranges. The transmission still provides automatic and paddle-controlled manual shifting, shift-on-the-fly High/Low selection and launch control. It remains a gear-driven DCT rather than a belt-driven CVT.
Updates shared across the entire 2027 Maverick R lineup include integrated window nets for a more race-inspired appearance and better protection from the elements. Can-Am also equips every model with stiffer steel-braided front and rear brake lines for improved braking performance and a firmer, more consistent response.
The 2027 Maverick R starts at $39,699. Can-Am continues to offer two- and four-seat models, premium X rs desert packages and the purpose-built X rc rock-crawling configuration. Although Extra Low is now shared across the lineup, the X rc remains distinct with Smart-Lok Rock mode, 35-inch tires, protective hardware and crawling-focused calibration.
The 240-horsepower engine and core chassis carry forward, but the universal Extra Low range is a meaningful mechanical change. It addresses one of the most common criticisms of the original two-seat Maverick R and makes the base and X rs models more versatile beyond open desert and dunes. For a deeper technical look, see our Can-Am Maverick R first look and our real-world Maverick R X rc rock-crawling review.
Can-Am Repeats a Familiar Four-Year Product Strategy
Can-Am says it plans to make major off-road product announcements every six months for the next four years. The commitment positions the 2027 lineup as the beginning of a broader product-development cycle rather than a one-time collection of updates.
“Our goals include becoming the number one brand in the off-road industry and the OEM of choice for dealers around the globe,” said Sandy Scullion, President of BRP’s Powersports Group.
Continuing to introduce market-leading products is essential to achieving that goal, Scullion added. The statement gives the four-year announcement schedule a clear purpose: Can-Am intends to use a sustained product rollout to strengthen its position with both customers and dealers.
This is not the first time Can-Am has adopted a similar strategy. BRP made a commitment when it introduced the original Defender in fall 2015 to broaden its side-by-side portfolio by introducing a new vehicle every six months for four years.
The company referenced that plan again when it introduced the Can-Am Defender MAX in early 2016. Later that year, BRP unveiled the Maverick X3 at its annual dealer meeting and described it as the latest step in its promise to introduce a new side-by-side every six months through 2020.
That earlier development cycle helped transform Can-Am’s UTV lineup. The Defender established a dedicated utility family, the Defender MAX expanded it to six passengers and the Maverick X3 introduced an entirely new high-performance platform.
The new four-year commitment therefore carries more significance than a typical product-planning statement. If Can-Am follows a similar pattern, the updated Defender, expanded XU packages and 2027 Maverick changes may represent the opening phase of another major expansion of the company’s off-road lineup.
2027 Can-Am Defender PreRunner and Maverick R XRay Concepts
Can-Am Shows Two 2027 Concept Builds
Can-Am also used the 2027 dealer show to present two dramatically different concept vehicles: the Defender PreRunner and Maverick R XRay.
The Defender PreRunner transforms the Defender 6×6 into a remote race-support machine with 35-inch tires, a four-seat cab, Sparco seats and a trophy-truck-inspired LinQ cargo system for tools and replacement parts. The Maverick R XRay takes its inspiration from Glamis, combining translucent illuminated body panels with an exoskeleton-style structure, paddle tires, a custom two-wheel-drive configuration and an active roof spoiler.
Neither concept is intended for production. Instead, the builds give Can-Am an opportunity to explore new functional and visual ideas without the limitations of a showroom vehicle. See both machines in our complete Can-Am Defender PreRunner and Maverick R XRay Build Spotlight.
What Is Actually New for 2027?
The 2027 Can-Am UTV lineup is broad, but the meaningful changes can be reduced to four themes:
- Defender XU becomes a major work-focused sub-line. XU adds a headache rack, bed-wall extension, LinQ tool holders and trailer hitch ball mount to several XT, cab, Limited and Lone Star configurations.
- The new-generation Defender expands beyond the original HD11 positioning. Buyers can choose an 80-hp HD10 or 95-hp HD11 triple-cylinder engine while the previous-generation HD7, HD9 and HD10 models remain available at lower prices.
- The Maverick X3 gains more standard equipment. A hard roof, half doors and window nets are included across the complete lineup.
- Every Maverick R gets Extra Low gearing. Can-Am standardizes the lower-geared MAX/X rc transmission across all two- and four-seat configurations for better technical-terrain control.
The Commander, Maverick Trail and Maverick Sport largely carry forward with new model-year pricing, colors and package availability rather than fundamental mechanical changes.
Final Thoughts
Can-Am is using 2027 to fill gaps rather than replace its major UTV platforms. The expanded Defender range gives utility buyers more ways to balance price, power, cargo equipment and cab comfort. XU is the key to that strategy: it turns factory work hardware into an option across multiple trims instead of restricting it to one stripped-down utility model.
For sport buyers, the Maverick X3 becomes a better-equipped value proposition. The Maverick R continues as the premium 240-horsepower DCT flagship, but its standardized Extra Low range makes every configuration more useful in technical terrain. Commander, Maverick Sport and Maverick Trail remain familiar choices for riders whose needs fall between pure work and all-out performance.
See the official Can-Am Off-Road lineup for current package availability, colors and pricing.
Follow UTV Guide’s complete Can-Am coverage for new-model announcements, specifications, comparisons, reviews, racing news and project builds.
