For 2026, Can-Am introduces the 3rd generation of the Defender, featuring a new look and new engine options. Since its launch in 2016, the Defender has fuelled a growing market of enthusiasts looking for performance and comfort, without sacrificing utility and reliability for work. In addition, a growing number of riders are looking for stronger engine capabilities, as well as more cabin space and luxury.
BRP has done a solid job refreshing a vehicle that was already very popular and appreciated by its users. Engineers managed to improve the exterior design while keeping the Defender’s well-known silhouette. New LED headlights and revised bumpers are now part of the package. Inside, a new main central display, a waterproof glovebox, LinQ anchors integrated into the dashboard, and improved seat and steering wheel ergonomics are now included.
New Rotax HD11 Engine for the 2026 Can-Am Defender
Under the hood (or the cab, in this case) is an all-new Rotax AS HD11 engine. This three-cylinder 999 cc engine delivers 95 hp and 70 lb-ft of torque. This is made possible thanks to a redesigned intake system and a larger, longer, higher-capacity air filter. In addition, three new driving modes have been added: Sport, Work and Normal. This new engine provides a more consistent torque curve and optimized high-RPM power. A new resonator has also been added to reduce noise. The cooling system has been upgraded to lower noise levels and improve performance. On the drivetrain side, the drive and prop shafts have been enlarged by 25%.
2026 Can-Am Defender Transmission: Optimized P-Drive and QRS-X
A brand-new transmission unit makes its debut. Larger to accommodate the HD11’s output, it consists of a P-Drive primary clutch and a QRS-X secondary clutch, allowing smoother and more precise low-speed power delivery. BRP promises smoother shifts, sharper response, and a higher-grade construction built to withstand increased performance.
2026 Defender DPS Steering and 4 Lok/Smart Lok Differentials
A new Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) system provides three selectable modes (low, medium, and high) to make driving easier at both low and high speeds depending on the application. Cruise control has also been added, ranging from 5 mph to 20 mph (8 km/h to 32 km/h) in 1 mph (1.6 km/h) increments, ideal for professional use. A brand-new front differential, the Quick 4Lok, also debuts. Featuring automatic limited slip and improved dynamic behaviour, it can be fully locked on demand by the driver. Available on all XT models, it is more robust and quieter. Xmr, Limited and Lone Star models continue to feature the well-known Smart Lok system, which can fully lock on demand with electronic control modes.
2026 Can-Am Defender Suspension and Reinforced Braking System
The new suspension features a redesigned 65-inch-wide stance. It includes new A-arms that are 50% larger and, for the first time in the industry, double suspension bushings for all suspension components. This eliminates squeaks and noise while requiring no maintenance. Ground clearance is 15 inches, with 12 inches of suspension travel front and rear. All components have been enlarged to significantly improve durability and robustness, which is particularly beneficial when carrying heavy loads. The braking system has also been upgraded with 20% larger front brakes and 7% larger rear brakes. Both are disc brakes.
2026 Defender Towing and Payload Capacity
Speaking of weight, the 2026 Defender HD11 has a towing capacity of 2,500 lb—the best in its class. Payload capacity is 1,500 lb. The new 45-litre fuel tank represents a 10% gain.
Reduced Cabin Noise in the 2026 Can-Am Defender
Can-Am has clearly focused on reducing cabin noise in the 2026 Defender HD11. They targeted the sources contributing to increased noise during its handling. New floor mats, roof liners and rear panel insulation achieve up to 50% noise reduction—3 dB quieter than the closest competitor.
Next-Generation Chassis of the 2026 Can-Am Defender
A new generation usually means a new chassis, and the 2026 Defender HD11 is no exception. A new profiled tube cage is now standard, providing better protection with forged reinforcements that extend deeper into the tubes. New mounting points for winches are now available, supporting up to 6,000 lb on all Defenders. The same goes for Promount plow systems: no plates are needed anymore, as the HD11 arrives plow-ready from the factory. All models now include a full-size 11.5 mm bolted skid plate—three times thicker than the previous version. Bumpers now come in different sizes: HD on XT models, or wide HD on Xmr, Lone Star and Limited models.
2026 BRP Defender Accessories: Winches, Cargo and LinQ System
The winches have been updated with a new, lighter synthetic rope. The new “Auto-Stop” feature prevents rope damage and simplifies operation. The cargo box now includes a 12 V outlet, a reinforced lid, a redesigned handle, new D-ring tie downs and integrated LinQ attachments. Lastly, a slip-resistant step is now built into the chassis to make cargo box access easier.
2026 Can-Am Defender Wheels and Tires by Model
Now let’s discuss a crucial off-road component: tires. The Defender XT and CAB come standard with 14-inch aluminum wheels paired with 29-inch XPS Trail King 2.0 tires. Xmr models feature the same wheels but with 30-inch XPS Swamp Force tires, which are more aggressive than the Trail Kings. Limited and LoneStar models come with 15-inch aluminum wheels and 30-inch XPS Trac Force tires.
2026 Defender D.E.S.S. System and Electronic Safety
Can-Am has also integrated a D.E.S.S. key across all 2026 Defenders. It provides the same security found in other BRP products equipped with this system. These keys can also be programmed by dealers to limit speed, with up to eight keys per vehicle.
2026 Defender HVAC and Cabin Technology
For heating and air conditioning, Can-Am uses components introduced in recent years in the ATV world. Air conditioning capacity has been increased by 62% for the 2026 Defender HD11. Heating and defrosting have also been improved by 40% at idle. New temperature controls are now available, including 6 fan speeds and 5 ventilation modes feeding 12 outlets throughout the cabin.
This significantly improves cabin ergonomics and comfort. The cabin now features new seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, integrated GPS, GROUP RIDE system, and the usual BRP music and navigation features. The system supports rear-view camera visibility (at all speeds) and a front camera on LoneStar models, with pre-wiring on others.
2026 Can-Am Defender HD11 audio systems
Inside the cabin, four different audio levels are available:
- Level 1 includes a JBL sound bar.
- Level 2 includes the sound bar and two speakers.
- Level 3 adds two additional speakers.
- Level 4 adds 4- or 6-speaker audio roofs.
Each level can be further enhanced with a subwoofer, a rear speaker and an amplifier.
Finally, for 2026, Can-Am will maintain the previous Defender lineup—HD7, HD9 and HD10—which will be sold alongside the new generation.
To conclude, Can-Am comes out strong for 2026 with the new Defender HD11. The upgrades made to this new generation appear to align perfectly with how consumers use their Defender. Whether for work—where strength and reliability are essential—or for fun, the new options brought by this redesign are remarkable. More to come with a full test in the coming weeks!
