The 2016 Arctic Cat Prowler HDX 700 XT received redesigned bodywork, updated closed-loop electronic fuel injection and several comfort improvements while retaining the utility-focused features that defined the HDX platform.
Its key working features included three-person seating, a transformable 1,000-pound-capacity cargo box, a 1,500-pound towing capacity and load-adjustable FOX FLOAT rear shocks. Arctic Cat also claimed an eight-decibel reduction in engine noise compared with the previous model.
This page covers the changes and specifications announced for the 2016 model. For a broader look at the platform, see our Arctic Cat Prowler HDX 700 overview.
2016 Arctic Cat Prowler HDX 700 XT Highlights
- 695cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine
- Closed-loop electronic fuel injection with an oxygen sensor
- Selectable four-wheel drive
- Three-person bench seating
- 1,000-pound cargo-box capacity
- Convertible cargo box and flatbed
- 1,500-pound towing capacity
- 2-inch receiver hitch
- 10 inches of suspension travel
- 10 inches of ground clearance
- Air-adjustable FOX FLOAT rear shocks
- 22.4-gallon underhood storage compartment
695cc H1 Engine With Closed-Loop EFI
The 2016 Prowler HDX 700 XT was powered by Arctic Cat’s 695cc H1 liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine. For this model year, Arctic Cat added a closed-loop EFI system that used an oxygen sensor to monitor the exhaust and adjust the air-to-fuel mixture.
The system was designed to provide consistent throttle response while improving combustion efficiency under changing operating conditions. Arctic Cat also reduced engine noise by a claimed eight decibels, an important improvement in a utility UTV intended for long workdays.
Transformable 1,000-Pound Cargo Box
One of the HDX’s defining features was its 56-inch-wide by 42.5-inch-long cargo box. The box could carry as much as 1,000 pounds and convert into a flatbed when the side panels were removed.
This design gave owners the flexibility to haul loose materials, tools, equipment or larger loads that would not fit inside a conventional cargo bed.
1,500-Pound Towing Capacity
A standard 2-inch receiver allowed the HDX 700 XT to tow as much as 1,500 pounds. Together with the high-capacity cargo box, this made the Prowler suitable for property maintenance, ranch work, hunting and other utility applications.
Three-Person Bench Seating
The Prowler HDX 700 XT used a three-person bench seat, allowing the driver to bring two passengers or additional help to a jobsite. For 2016, Arctic Cat added 3.25 inches of shoulder room to improve comfort across the cab.
Independent Suspension and FOX FLOAT Shocks
The HDX featured fully independent suspension with 10 inches of travel and 10 inches of ground clearance. Air-adjustable FOX FLOAT shocks were installed at the rear.
Owners could change rear-shock air pressure to compensate for passengers, cargo or trail conditions. This was especially useful when switching between an unloaded vehicle and one carrying substantial weight in the cargo box.
Integrated Side Storage
Additional storage compartments were positioned in the sides of the vehicle near the rear wheel wells. These enclosed spaces gave operators convenient places to carry tools, recovery equipment and smaller supplies without using space in the main cargo box.
Digital Instrument Display
The digital instrument panel displayed vehicle speed, engine rpm, trip mileage, transmission position, time and fuel level. The redesigned dashboard was part of the more automotive-inspired interior introduced for 2016.
Automotive-Style Hood and Underhood Storage
The redesigned hood opened from the front and incorporated a support mechanism that held it upright. Beneath it was a large 22.4-gallon storage compartment, along with access to the radiator and brake-fluid reservoir.
Arctic Cat also fitted the 2016 HDX with durable Surlyn body panels and styling influenced by the contemporary Prowler XT lineup.
2016 Arctic Cat Prowler HDX 700 XT Colors
The 2016 Prowler HDX 700 XT was shown in multiple finishes, including black and camouflage.
A More Refined Utility-Focused Prowler
The 2016 update did not change the basic mission of the Prowler HDX 700 XT. Instead, Arctic Cat refined the utility platform with quieter operation, more shoulder room, updated EFI, improved bodywork and easier access to storage and service points.
Its combination of a convertible cargo box, three-person cab, adjustable rear suspension and substantial storage made it one of Arctic Cat’s most work-oriented side-by-sides of the period. Explore additional machines and historical coverage in our Arctic Cat UTV archive.
