For this Polaris RZR XP rock crawling review, we installed true 33-inch High Lifter Chicane LT tires and headed to Double Sammy at Sand Hollow. The goal was to see how the completely redesigned 2024 RZR XP handled technical sandstone obstacles with relatively few modifications.
We also handed the keys to Polaris racer Michael Lee. Michael has extensive experience driving the original RZR XP 1000 in the rocks, along with plenty of Sand Hollow seat time in two- and four-seat RZR Pro R models. That experience gave him a useful reference point for judging how the new-generation XP compares with earlier Polaris platforms.
2024 Polaris RZR XP Rock-Crawling Test Setup
Our test vehicle retained both factory sway bars and used 33-inch Chicane LT tires set at 8 psi. Those tires are a meaningful step up from the RZR XP’s stock 30-inch tires, but they fit without the clearance problems we would expect from a true 35-inch setup.
| Test location | Double Sammy, Sand Hollow, Utah |
|---|---|
| Test vehicle | 2024 Polaris RZR XP |
| Engine | 114-hp Gen 2 ProStar |
| Test tires | 33-inch High Lifter Chicane LT |
| Tire pressure | 8 psi |
| Sway bars | Front and rear connected |
How the Redesigned RZR XP Crawls
The 2024 RZR XP was a ground-up redesign of the long-running XP 1000 platform. Although Polaris primarily positioned it as a versatile trail machine, the changes also make it a surprisingly capable recreational rock crawler.
The lower low-range gearing is one of the biggest improvements on technical terrain. It is substantially lower than the original RZR XP 1000’s low range, giving the driver better speed control and reducing the need to attack obstacles with excess momentum. It is not quite as low as the gearing in the dedicated RZR XP 1000 Trail & Rock Edition, but it is a major improvement over the original XP platform.
Clutch engagement was smooth and predictable throughout the test. The redesigned XP uses larger primary and secondary clutches with roots in the XP Turbo driveline, along with improved CVT cooling. Even while crawling at low speed on 33-inch tires, we never felt as though the belt was slipping.
Power With 33-Inch Tires
The naturally aspirated 114-horsepower Gen 2 ProStar engine pulled the heavier 33-inch tires without feeling overwhelmed. That matters at Sand Hollow because reaching the rock-crawling trails often involves running through stretches of deep sand.
The RZR XP still had enough power to move comfortably through the sand between trails. It does not deliver the explosive acceleration of a turbocharged RZR, but the engine and clutching felt well matched to this tire size and the mixed rock-and-sand riding found around Sand Hollow.
Visibility, Seating and Driver Control
Visibility over the hood is better than it was in the previous RZR XP 1000. Being able to see the terrain immediately in front of the machine makes it easier to place a tire on the correct ledge and judge the approach to a technical obstacle.
The seating position is slightly lower, and the cockpit provides a little more legroom. Drivers around six feet tall or taller may still want more room for their left leg, but the revised cockpit is an improvement overall.
The turning radius was also excellent. That becomes particularly valuable on tight rock trails where a wide-turning machine can require repeated backing and repositioning.
Chassis and Suspension Performance
After approximately 400 miles, the chassis still felt tight and solid with no notable squeaks or rattles. The redesigned chassis feels more substantial than the original XP 1000, which inspires confidence when the machine is twisted across uneven ledges.
Polaris also mounted the front differential securely with rubber isolation. It is a thoughtful detail that helps manage noise and vibration while keeping an important driveline component well supported.
We left both factory sway bars connected for this test. Even in that configuration, the RZR XP maintained useful traction and chassis control on Double Sammy. If this were our machine and technical rock crawling were a major part of its use, we would consider removing or disconnecting the front sway bar to gain additional front suspension articulation.
Will 35-Inch Tires Fit a 2024 RZR XP?
Our true 33-inch tires cleared without a problem. However, 35-inch tires will not fit properly with the stock front suspension arms. Owners planning to run 35s should expect to install aftermarket forward-offset front A-arms and carefully check clearance through the full steering and suspension range.
Thirty-three-inch tires appear to be a practical size for a multipurpose RZR XP. They add useful ground clearance and improve the contact patch without requiring the additional suspension modifications associated with 35-inch tires.
Polaris RZR XP Rock Crawling Review Video
Watch Michael Lee put the 2024 RZR XP through its paces on Double Sammy:
Verdict
The redesigned RZR XP is one of the better out-of-the-box recreational rock crawlers we have tested. Its lower gearing, smooth clutch engagement, excellent turning radius and improved forward visibility all help on technical terrain. The chassis also feels noticeably tighter and more substantial than the original XP 1000 platform.
A dedicated rock-crawling build could benefit from forward-offset suspension arms, larger tires and additional articulation. However, our lightly modified machine performed extremely well with nothing more radical than true 33-inch tires at 8 psi.
The 2024 RZR XP remains a trail-focused sport UTV, but this test showed that it can handle difficult Sand Hollow rock trails while retaining the power and versatility needed for the sand and faster trails between obstacles. Two thumbs up.
