Of all the models in the 2022 Can-Am lineup, the Maverick X3 family has received by far the most attention. Indeed, the propulsion, the chassis, the suspension and even the tires have been improved.
Can-Am breaks the 200 hp barrier
It was only a matter of time before one manufacturer reached the 200 hp mark. The only question was which one would be the first to reach that psychological milestone. Can-Am did it for 2022 with the TurboRR engine. The Valcourt-based manufacturer was the first to offer a 100 hp engine in 2013.
Rear-wheel drive unit
That said, the change from 195 hp to 200 hp was made at the engine calibration level on the control module. It’s not clear at the time of writing if the boost pressure has been increased. We should have confirmation soon.
To transmit this power to the wheels, Can-Am opts for the pDrive pulley. This one is used on Ski-Doo snowmobiles since 2017. It will be introduced in the world of quads in 2022. I invite you to read the article Can-Am introduces the pDrive in 2022 to learn more about this innovative drive pulley.
According to the manufacturer, the combination of the Turbo RR and the pDrive greatly improves performance. In fact, it seems to provide much more than the extra 5 hp over the 2021 models. Acceleration is quicker and power surges are almost instantaneous. Of course, a test drive of a new X3 equipped with the 200-hp Turbo RR and pDrive will allow us to validate this information.
In addition, all models offered in 2021 with the 172 or 195 hp engine will switch to the 200 hp engine. Thus, the X3s will only be offered in 120 hp and 200 hp versions in 2022.
It’s also interesting to note that Smart-Lok differentials are fitted to all 2022 Maverick X3s.
Finally, the models powered by the Turbo RR will all have a belt monitoring system. This system consists of a temperature sensor located in the pulley compartment. This sensor returns the temperature which is displayed in the digital gauge.
Reinforced chassis
Several structural elements of the X3 have been strengthened. These improvements affect the entire Maverick X3 2022. These changes are the result of the Can-Am team’s experience in competition over the past few years.
The tubular parts are 30% thicker. This provides a 13% increase in torsional rigidity of the chassis. At the rear, the suspension mounting plate is also thicker. This makes the chassis more robust.
One thing to note is that all LinQ accessories from the 2021 X3 are fully compatible with the 2022 models. So, if you change your X3 for a 2022, you can keep your accessories.
Suspension
Some suspension components on many X3s have also been upgraded. These include new rear lower arms. For the 72-inch models, there are also new lower A-arms in the front.
Tires
2022 is a year of standardization for the Maverick X3 tires. All front and rear tires will be the same size. DS, RS and X-DS models equipped with the Turbo RR will be fitted with 30-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires. X-RS models will have 32-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires.
Accessories
Naturally, Can-Am has also adjusted its accessory offerings to meet the needs of all 2022 Maverick X3 owners. We’ll discuss these changes in a future article.
Conclusion
Just like my colleagues on the InfoQuad.com team, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of a new 2022 Maverick X3. I will then be able to share with you my comments and observations of this ultra-sporty side-by-side vehicle.
Until then, enjoy the ride and I look forward to meeting you on the trails.
