By Jon Crowley
Polaris unveiled the all-new RZR XP S in October 2025 and my interest in this vehicle was immediately piqued. We’ve owned a 2024 Polaris RZR XP for a few years now, and it is a great trail machine. But with a taller-geared low range and 64-inch width ,it isn’t as good of a rock crawler as we would have liked. And in higher-speed, rough desert terrain, a wider stance with more wheel travel would be better. The new RZR XP S seemed to address these issues, plus more with a “PRO Level” beefed up drivetrain, suspension and chassis.
Quick Verdict
After several days of testing the Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate on Double Sammy, West Rim and The Maze at Sand Hollow, we found it to be one of the best factory sport UTVs currently available for technical rock crawling. The lower low-range gearing, stronger drivetrain, excellent wheelbase, and stable 72-inch stance make it significantly more capable than the previous RZR XP while remaining comfortable for trail riding.
Here are a few details on the RZR XP S 4 Ultimate:
- 72-inch wide and 117-inch wheelbase (just like the Turbo S).
- 25-inches of useable travel with 16-inches of ground clearance.
- Great low range gearing for rock crawling (like the Pro S)
- 5-lug wheels.
- Strong axles with 8-ball CVs.
- Reinforced One Piece Chassis.
- Ride-Command with rear camera on Ultimate trim level.
- 32-inch Pro Armor Trekker tires.
- 2.5-inch Walker Evans Velocity shocks font/rear with 16-position adjustable clickers and true dual-rate springs.
- Selectable Throttle Modes (Standard / Sport / Rock)
- Fang Lights are back!
- 900W charging system
- Factory-installed 4,500-lb. winch
- Over 60 Polaris accessories carry over from RZR XP
- MSRP $29,499
We received a 2026 Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate demo unit in mid-January and went ride to work testing it in stock trim.
There are a few big issues I pay close attention to for rock crawling tests:
- Is low range sufficiently low for technical rock crawling
- How big of a tire can I fit
- Can the drivetrain and suspension handle the abuse
- Are the overall dimensions conducive to technical rock crawling
I wanted to test out a larger tire, so I mounted up 35-inch System 3 Offroad RC500 S tires on beadlock wheels to see if we had any clearance issues.
Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate With 35-inch System 3 RC500 S tires
I then ran through Double Sammy to test for tire clearance and found no issues. From there, I enlisted the help of Chad Hughes and Justin Kee to drive on West Rim and The Maze at Sand Hollow while I filmed.
Here are a few takeaways for those of you that don’t want to watch the video above:
- The 72-inch wide + 117-inch wheelbase is excellent for steep climbs/decents at Sand Hollow. Confidence inspiring is a good term for how it feels. The extra wheelbase without being too long is appreciated – I do not like the land yacht size that is common for many sport 4-seaters (for example, the RZR XP S 4 is 8-inches shorter than Pro S 4 and 8.8 inches shorter than KRX 4).
- Low range pulls 35-inch tires in technical situations without belt-slip. High speed performance in desert terrain is also good.
- Vehicle feels very solid/beefy. Drivetrain, chassis and suspension improvements are noticeable and appreciated.
- ”Rock” throttle mode is spot-on for rock crawling. Pedal throw feels normal and it just takes away any twitchy feel inherent in Sport mode
- Shifting transmission in/out of park and through gears is much smoother than previous RZRs. Even when parked on a hill!
- Shocks are a bit on the stiff side when you have just two people in the car, but I adjusted clickers much softer and it felt pretty good. Much better at handling g-out situations than 2-inch Walker Evans needle shocks found on the front of RZR XP
- The upgraded drivetrain isn’t just about durability. The stronger axles, 8-ball CV joints, reinforced chassis, and improved transmission calibration all contribute to a vehicle that feels more solid when driven aggressively over rocks and ledges, especially with larger 35-inch tires installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Isn’t the Polaris RZR XP S just a Turbo S without a turbo?
It’s easy to assume that, especially since both machines share a 72-inch stance, the same wheelbase and a similar overall appearance, but the answer is no.
While the RZR XP S 4 borrows some of the proven design philosophy that made the Turbo S 4 such a capable trail and rock-crawling machine, Polaris didn’t simply remove the turbocharger and call it a new model. The XP S features an updated chassis, a stronger drivetrain, revised suspension geometry, increased suspension travel, improved low-range gearing, and numerous refinements developed from years of experience with the Pro XP and Pro S platforms.
The naturally aspirated 999cc ProStar engine also gives the XP S a different personality. Power delivery is smooth, predictable, and easy to modulate, making it especially well-suited for technical terrain where precise throttle control is more important than outright horsepower.
During our testing at Sand Hollow, the XP S felt like the spiritual successor to the Turbo S, but with the benefit of several years of engineering improvements. The upgraded drivetrain, improved suspension, and refined low-range gearing create a more capable and confidence-inspiring machine than simply “a Turbo S without a turbo.”
Is the Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate good for rock crawling?
Yes. Based on our testing at Sand Hollow, the Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate is one of the most capable factory sport UTVs we’ve driven for technical rock crawling. The revised low-range gearing provides excellent throttle control on steep climbs, while the 72-inch-wide chassis delivers impressive stability on off-camber obstacles. Throughout our testing, the XP S 4 climbed ledges and loose sandstone with confidence while maintaining predictable handling.
What makes the RZR XP S different from the previous 64-inch RZR XP?
The biggest differences are the wider 72-inch stance and significantly increased suspension travel. Compared to the previous 64-inch RZR XP, the XP S delivers greater stability on sidehills, improved confidence in rough terrain, and the ability to carry more speed through whoops, rocks, and uneven trails. The wider platform also accommodates larger tires more easily, making 35-inch tires a practical option for many owners.
Beyond the chassis, Polaris also updated the drivetrain with improved low-range gearing that provides better throttle control during technical rock crawling. Combined with revised Walker Evans Velocity shocks and increased wheel travel, the RZR XP S feels like a much more capable and versatile machine, whether you’re tackling Sand Hollow’s rock formations or covering miles of fast desert trails.
During our testing at Sand Hollow, the wider chassis and additional suspension travel were the most noticeable improvements over the previous 64-inch RZR XP, especially on off-camber obstacles and high-speed sections between technical climbs.
Can the Polaris RZR XP S fit 35-inch tires?
Yes. Our test vehicle was equipped with 35-inch System 3 RC500 tires, and they fit the factory suspension without requiring a lift kit. Even in technical rock-crawling conditions, we experienced excellent clearance with no significant rubbing issues. Larger tires also increased ground clearance and improved obstacle capability, although they add rotating weight and can slightly affect acceleration.
Does the Polaris RZR XP S have a good low range for rock crawling?
Absolutely. One of the biggest improvements over previous RZR XP models is the lower low-range gearing. It allows the vehicle to crawl smoothly over rocks with excellent throttle modulation and reduced brake input. During our Sand Hollow testing, we found the gearing provided the control needed for steep climbs, ledges, and technical descents.
Who should buy the Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate?
The XP S 4 Ultimate is an excellent choice for riders who want one machine capable of tackling technical rock trails, mountain trails, and faster desert terrain without moving to a larger or more expensive platform. It combines excellent slow-speed control with impressive suspension performance and enough comfort for full-day adventures with four passengers.
Is the Polaris RZR XP S 4 better than the Kawasaki Teryx KRX4 1000 for rock crawling?
Both are outstanding four-seat UTVs for technical trails, but they take different approaches to rock crawling.
One of the biggest advantages of the Polaris RZR XP S 4 is its 117-inch wheelbase, which is 8.8 inches shorter than the Kawasaki Teryx KRX4 1000’s 125.8-inch wheelbase. That shorter wheelbase gives the RZR XP S a noticeably better breakover angle, making it easier to crest ledges and sharp rock obstacles without dragging the center of the chassis.
During our testing at Sand Hollow, this difference became especially apparent on steep ledges. As the vehicle transitioned over the top of an obstacle, the shorter-wheelbase RZR XP S was less likely to contact its skid plate, allowing the rear tires to stay planted and maintain traction. A longer wheelbase, like the KRX4’s, is more prone to high-centering on the crest of an obstacle, which can unload the rear tires and make the climb more difficult.
The KRX4 still has plenty of strengths. Its naturally aspirated engine delivers smooth, predictable power, and its suspension provides an exceptionally compliant ride over rocky terrain. However, if your riding regularly includes technical trails with large ledges, waterfalls, and abrupt breakovers like those found at Sand Hollow or the Rubicon Trail, the shorter wheelbase of the Polaris RZR XP S 4 gives it a meaningful advantage.
Ultimately, both machines are excellent four-seat sport UTVs, but they excel in different areas. Based on our testing at Sand Hollow, we’d give the edge to the Polaris RZR XP S 4 for technical rock crawling thanks to its shorter wheelbase and superior breakover capability. Riders who prioritize durability and frequently carry adult passengers may find the Kawasaki Teryx KRX4 1000’s rugged design and more spacious rear seating better suited to their needs.
Taking the Suspension to the Next Level
The factory Walker Evans Velocity shocks impressed us throughout our Sand Hollow testing, offering an excellent balance of comfort, control, and bottoming resistance for a stock suspension package. However, every rider’s needs are different. Owners who add accessories, move up to larger tires, or simply want to tailor the suspension to their driving style have several excellent upgrade options.
Both Shock Therapy and Suspension Direct Inc. (SDi) offer spring kits and custom shock valving designed to improve ride quality and handling while optimizing the factory Walker Evans shocks. Riders looking for even more advanced technology can also explore SDi’s E-CLIK Active suspension, which automatically adjusts damping to changing terrain for improved comfort and control.
For more details, check out the following information:
Final Thoughts
If your riding consists primarily of fast desert terrain, mountain trails, and technical rock crawling, the 2026 Polaris RZR XP S 4 Ultimate is one of the most balanced factory sport UTVs we’ve driven. It combines the stability of a 72-inch platform with low-range gearing that finally delivers the slow-speed control many Polaris enthusiasts have wanted for years. Add in Polaris’ stronger, more durable drivetrain and upgraded transmission components, and the XP S feels built to handle the demands of aggressive trail riding and technical terrain with greater confidence. For riders who regularly explore places like Sand Hollow, Moab, or the Rubicon Trail, the RZR XP S 4 Ultimate deserves a place at the top of the shortlist.
Polaris Pro XP S Website: https://www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/rzr/models/rzr-xp-s/
