My name is André Paquin, and I’ve been a guide for the quad club Les Randonneurs for nearly twenty years. I just purchased the brand-new 2025 Can-Am Outlander Max XT 850 on the all-new G3 platform. After riding nearly 100,000 km on my previous five Can-Am G2s (2012–2024), always in Max XT 850 versions, I thought I’d share my impressions after my first 400 km on this new 2025 model.
A Game-Changing Design on the Outlander G3 Max XT 850
At first glance, the major changes Can-Am made to this flagship model are obvious. Sitting on the seat, my first impression was that it looked wider—but it’s an illusion caused by the front fender design. The legs are very well protected.
Another solid improvement is the dashboard. Now bigger, wider, and perfectly positioned, it displays complete information that’s easy to read thanks to large numbers.
As for the riding position, the ergonomics is typical of an Outlander. I immediately felt right at home. The power steering is lighter than before in MAX mode, which I really appreciate.
Engine and Transmission: The Outlander G3 Max XT 850 Gains Smoothness
Once the engine is running, you notice right away that it’s quieter. The brand-new exhaust system, placed differently, must have something to do with it. Another nice surprise is the gear lever, which has nothing in common with the old version. Shifts between P (park), H (high), and R (reverse) are easy and smooth, unlike the G2. No more back-and-forth rocking to get it into gear.
Another change is the disappearance of the clutch whistling noise. This is thanks to the new CVT called P-drive. It’s quieter and smoother.
My first 7 km were on asphalt at about 70 km/h. My passenger immediately pointed out how impressive the reduced engine noise was. Fun fact: her Apple Watch used to send loud-noise alerts every time—but not anymore. That shows just how well BRP engineers nailed it on this front.
Suspension and Comfort: The Can-Am Outlander G3 Max XT 850 Wins Over Passengers
On the trails, the improved comfort of the suspension is obvious. Note that I have the standard shocks and not the gas ones, which are reserved for the XT-P and Limited models. Factory-default adjustments only. Much smoother, the suspension feels less stiff.
The G3 now comes with arched A-arms at the rear. My passenger loves this new suspension. Up front, it remains similar to the G2, but with power steering. This makes riding less tiring on the shoulders and arms.
The Outlander G3 Max XT 850 on Long Rides
By Saturday evening, with 204 km on the odometer, I was very satisfied with my purchase so far. Fuel consumption didn’t seem to change. I didn’t feel the little power boost claimed for 2025 on the 850 cc engine. In fact, I’d say I felt the opposite. I attribute this to the significantly reduced sound, added weight, and more muffled comfort.
The next 200 km started on rain-soaked trails, courtesy of Mother Nature, overnight. My first splashes into puddles brought a smile to my face—no more soaked boots, especially the right leg. G2 riders will understand, since we all dealt with a constantly wet lower leg. The new one-piece side panels fix this.
Switching into 4WD is the same as before, though even the differentials seem quieter—no more typical G2 growl. One thing bothers me, though. The engine no longer starts instantly. The starter must crank longer than before.
Simplified Maintenance: Can-Am Keeps Riders in Mind
With the side panels removed, maintenance access is much easier. The radiator is now much more visible both from the front and under the fenders, making essential cleaning easier. The air filter is now under the dashboard along with the clutch intake, fuse box, and coolant reservoir.
The battery is back above the right rear wheel, like on the G1 (pre-2012), but the solenoid sits under the seat. I’m concerned about the suspension, which no longer has greaseable bushings. The G2 had 14 of them. I plan to keep a close eye on this.
As for the new XPS Trail King 2 tires versus the ITP Terra Cross, I can’t tell much difference in handling yet—something to watch over the mid to long term.
In conclusion, I’ve noticed many improvements:
- reduced engine noise;
- easier gear lever;
- quieter clutch;
- smoother suspension;
- dashboard;
- lighter steering;
- etc.
All of these make long rides even more enjoyable. However, I find it less sporty than before, which I think is due to the G3 changes. Let’s hope reliability is as good as with my last five G2.
BRP Storage: The Outlander G3 Max XT 850 Compartments Spark Debate
I’d like to say a word about the integrated storage compartments on the front and rear racks. There’s a 30-litre box up front and a 10-litre one in the rear. Well designed and integrated, but useless if you need larger storage boxes.
Personally, I need a lot of storage space, so I chose BRP’s cargo boxes. Made of sturdy plastic, they stay firmly anchored thanks to the LinQ system, with two easy-to-use closure straps.
Up front, the lid stays open thanks to a clever plastic design. Wide opening. But you have to remove the built-in box lid to fit the 90-litre box—nothing less. You can easily store two full-face helmets inside. I love it.
I was disappointed by one thing, though. The seals came off before I even installed it, and the lock wasn’t aligned with the hole. I had to modify it myself. BRP should tighten supplier quality control.
The rear box now offers a 139-litre capacity (WOW!) and an 8-inch opening. Who thought of that? I can’t fit a helmet, a chainsaw, or even a bag of clothes inside. Designing such a big box with such a small opening that only allows many small items—it’s a shame. On top of that, there’s no retention system to keep the lid open. And the box rubs against the passenger seat backrest if opened at 90 degrees. Finally, the seals and lock had the same issues as the front one. BRP really needs to rethink this box. In my opinion, it’s a design failure. That’s truly my biggest disappointment. And at $830 per box, it’s frustrating.
To close, I hope you enjoyed my honest opinion. This was a first experience for me, so thank you for taking an interest in my comments.
Ride safe and enjoy the trails!
