By Jon Crowley
When it comes to battling the elements in a side-by-side, nothing beats a factory-enclosed cab with full heat and air conditioning (HVAC). Whether you’re pushing through a snow-covered job site, escaping summer heat on the trail, or logging long hours outdoors in dusty conditions, a UTV with factory HVAC makes a huge difference in operator comfort. Here’s a detailed look at the leading utility and adventure UTVs that come straight from the factory with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
First HVAC Model
Polaris was first-to-market with HVAC in 2017 with their RANGER XP 1000 Northstar Edition. The 2017 Polaris RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Edition was a significant advancement in utility side-by-sides, offering a factory-installed, fully enclosed cab with heating and air conditioning. This model was designed for year-round comfort and productivity, featuring a 999cc ProStar twin-cylinder engine delivering 80 horsepower and 61 lb-ft of torque. The NorthStar Edition’s cab included power windows, a windshield wiper with a washer, and a heater/AC system, ensuring operator comfort in all weather conditions. This edition set a new standard for comfort and functionality in the utility UTV segment.
Cab Noise
I have driven several UTVs with enclosed cabs and HVAC and they are all too loud. Realistically, enclosed-cab UTVs aren’t any louder than open-cab UTVs, but the perception is that they are louder. I think there are two reasons for this – lack of wind noise (wind noise level cancels out some of the engine noise) and it feels like you are in a normal street vehicle which is typically much quieter inside. UTVs rev much higher than normal street vehicles and this is where the noise comes from. UTV manufacturers all need to realize that in this space, people are expecting a quieter experience and adjust the engine/transmission package to deliver this. The challenge is to produce enough torque at low RPM levels to make that happen. This is much harder to accomplish with a UTV 1,000cc engine. With the RANGER 1500 XD, Polaris has made some improvements with an engine that does increase torque and decrease RPM levels.
Dust Mitigation
Group rides are often very dusty. In an open cab UTV, using a full-face helmet combined with a helmet air pumper is a game-changer. While that helps keep your head and lungs dust free, everything else in the vehicle typically gets wasted with dust. An enclosed-cab with HVAC is a different approach to this situation, but they certainly are not perfect. This is an area where manufacturers need to improve upon. Solid doors that seal well are a top priority, but it is amazing how many small spots like the shifter allow dust to enter the cab. That being said, the RANGER XD 1500 and Kawasaki Ridge are the two best UTVs that I have driven when it comes to keeping dust out of the cab.
Utility Only?
Manufacturers have focused exclusively on the utility market except for Polaris. The XPEDITION is the only rec-utility model in 2025 that comes with HVAC. Other manufacturers need to step it up and get more competition in the rec-utility space. Models like the Can-Am Commander, Yamaha RMAX and Honda Talon are perfect candidates for HVAC!
Price
In general, you are going to pay a premium if you want HVAC with many models coming in at over $40K. The Polaris RANGER CREW XD 1500 Northstar Edition Ultimate is the most expensive at $49,499! On the other end of the spectrum, CFMOTO just recently launched the 2025 CFMOTO UFORCE U10 XL PRO HIGHLAND starting at $26,999. Hopefully more competition in the HVAC market segment will start to drive down prices.
Can-Am Defender Limited with heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)
Can-Am Defender Limited
The Can-Am Defender Limited is a top pick for buyers looking for reliable, weather-ready performance in a refined package. Its fully enclosed cab includes heat and A/C as standard equipment, along with power windows and a tight seal to keep out dust and moisture. Whether you’re hauling on the farm or riding in cold climates, it gets the job done with ease.
Key Features:
- 82 HP Rotax HD10 V-twin engine
- Factory-installed HVAC system with auto climate control
- Full glass windshield and power windows
- 2,500 lb towing / 1,000 lb payload
- Available in 3-seat and MAX 6-seat configurations
CFMOTO UFORCE U10 Pro Highland
CFMOTO UForce U10 Highlander
The UForce U10 Highlander is a standout in terms of value. As one of the most affordable factory HVAC-equipped UTVs on the market, it delivers enclosed cab comfort without the premium price tag. It’s well-suited for light utility use and casual trail rides where basic protection from the elements is a must.
Key Features:
- 963cc V-twin engine with 79 HP
- Fully enclosed cab with heat and air conditioning
- Winch, roof, windshield, and doors included as standard
- 1,500 lb towing capacity
- Great value for budget-conscious buyers
CFMOTO launches new HVAC vehicles: UFORCE U10 Pro Highland and U10 XL Pro Highland
John Deere Gator XUV 845R Signature Edition
John Deere Gator XUV 845R Signature Edition
Designed for operators who demand premium features and long hours of comfort, the John Deere Gator XUV 845R Signature Edition offers one of the most refined HVAC-equipped UTV experiences. With a sound-dampened cab, leather-like seating, and a touchscreen display, it’s built for serious professionals who spend all day in their machine.
Key Features:
- Gas engine with 62 HP
- Factory cab with heat, A/C, defrost, and recirculation modes
- Fully sealed cab with high-grade insulation
- Touchscreen display and LED signature lighting
- 2,000 lb towing / 1,000 lb cargo box capacity
John Deere Gator XUV 845R Signature Edition: The Ultimate in Luxury and Performance
The Kawasaki Ridge XR Crew Limited HVAC is right at home doing work or trail riding.
Kawasaki Ridge HVAC
New for 2024, the Kawasaki Ridge with factory HVAC delivers refined performance in a chassis designed for comfort, cargo, and control. The Ridge HVAC model features a fully sealed cab with automatic climate control and noise-reduction engineering that rivals premium automotive cabins. It brings Kawasaki’s legendary durability into a more comfortable package.
Key Features:
- 999cc inline twin with 68 HP
- HVAC-equipped cab with standard wiper and washer
- Quiet operation and low cabin noise
- Up to 2,000 lb towing capacity
- Available in Crew and standard configurations
2019 RANGER CREW® XP 1000 EPS NorthStar Edition
Polaris RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Edition
The RANGER XP 1000 NorthStar Edition has become a go-to for landowners and professionals who demand all-season usability. It blends rugged performance with a quiet, comfortable ride inside a cab that includes full heat and A/C. Available in both Premium and Ultimate trims, it’s the gold standard for utility-focused side-by-sides under the 1000cc class.
Key Features:
- 82 HP ProStar engine
- Fully sealed cab with heat and air conditioning
- Optional Ride Command with touchscreen display
- 2,500 lb towing / 1,000 lb payload
- NorthStar cab includes power windows, defrost, and wiper
Polaris RANGER Expands Industry-Leading 2019 RANGER XP 1000 Lineup
Polaris RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Ultimate
Polaris RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Edition
Built to handle extreme workloads and harsh conditions, the Polaris RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Edition sets the bar for high-capacity utility side-by-sides. With the all-new STEELDRIVE automatic transmission and a 110 HP ProStar 1500 engine, it’s designed to haul, tow, and work in all weather. The fully enclosed Pro Shield cab features industry-leading HVAC and noise insulation, making it one of the most refined utility UTVs ever offered.
Key Features:
- 110 HP 1500cc ProStar 3-cylinder engine
- Factory-installed HVAC with automotive-style controls
- STEELDRIVE transmission with a steel belt and hydraulic clutch
- Locking full doors with power windows and windshield wiper
- 3,500 lb towing / 1,500 lb payload
Polaris RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Crew Review: The Ultimate Workhorse UTV
Polaris XPEDITION
Polaris XPEDITION NorthStar Edition
The Polaris XPEDITION brings adventure-focused innovation into the HVAC market with the NorthStar Edition. Featuring an enclosed sport-style cab and the same Pro Shield cab technology as the RANGER line, the XPEDITION offers all-season comfort in a platform built for exploration. A full HVAC system comes standard, making it a serious overland contender.
Key Features:
- 114 HP ProStar 1000 Gen 2 engine
- HVAC system with defrost and recirculate modes
- Integrated roof rack and bed-mounted MOLLE panels
- Available in 2-seat and 5-seat ADV and XP configurations
- Fully sealed cab with power windows and Ride Command+
Four-Day Adventure Ride from Hurricane Utah in our Polaris XPEDITION ADV
