We’ve been hitting the trails with our 2014 Polaris Ranger Crew 900 for four great years now. It felt like time for an upgrade… and fairly more comfort! We landed on the 2025 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Premium, with six seats. In this article, I’ll share what led us to that decision, including comfort, safety, and performance. Plus a few small features that tipped the scales and made us say: this is the one! It was important for my husband and me to make sure Polaris was still the right brand for us, so we visited other dealerships to compare models.
A Family in Search of the Perfect Side-by-Side
I recently joined the InfoQuad.com team as a contributor, and I’m thrilled to present my very first article! I’m a mom of three kids under 10, and my husband works away from home. I consider myself resourceful, curious, and always up for a challenge. Those who know me know that I’m both mom and dad when my husband’s not around. That never stops me from heading out with the kids in a side-by-side, on a snowmobile, or for a camping trip. To me, what matters most is keeping them safe and taking the time to learn.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the decision-making process that led us to buy our 2025 Polaris Ranger XP 1000. We looked at several models, and I’ll explain why we didn’t choose them.
Here were my non-negotiable criteria:
- Enclosed and insulated cab
- Heating and air conditioning
- 6 seats
Can-Am Defender Limited
We considered the Can-Am Defender Limited, which is quite similar to the Ranger. To me, it felt a bit more luxurious. I noticed two key differences: first, it comes standard with tinted windows. Second, the driver’s seat slides forward and backward for better adjustment. But it was more expensive than the Ranger XP 1000.
Honda Pioneer
We also took the time to look at the Honda Pioneer. To get something equivalent to the Ranger, we would’ve had to add quite a few options to the Pioneer. In the end, the cost was nearly the same—but the cab isn’t sealed like the Ranger or the Defender.
The moment I saw the 2025 Ranger XP 1000, I knew it was MY next machine. The 2025 edition includes everything we need for perfect family outings.
Stock Features on the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar
When we bought our Ranger XP, we were impressed with how well equipped it came. For my husband and me, the simplicity of that was a big selling point. No more having to add a dozen extras to get what we want! Here are a few specs that really stood out to me.
Chassis
Sealed, Secure Cab
The closed and insulated cab on the Ranger XP 1000 reduces engine noise and protects us from dust and bad weather. The rigid doors also enhance safety. Plus, you can crank open the windows if you want some fresh air.
1,000 Lb Rear Cargo Box
The rear cargo box can carry up to 1,000 lb (453.5 kg). I use it all the time for various tasks—from gardening and landscaping to hauling heavy items, like a compressor.
With three kids, we also have a ton of stuff to bring on outings. So this feature is one of our favourites. We even bought a tarp cover for the box, which gives us extra enclosed storage.
Performance
3 drive modes
The NorthStar edition of the Ranger XP 1000 comes with three drive modes: Standard, Work, and Performance.
- I use Standard mode for most outings.
- I prefer Work mode when going slower or when I’m stuck. I also use it in combination with 4 × 4 to get out of mud or snow.
- Lastly, I switch to Performance mode when I want some acceleration fun. With 82 hp and a towing capacity of 2,500 lb (1,134 kg), it has plenty of muscle.
Safety
4,500 lb winch
The Ranger XP 1000’s winch can pull up to 4,500 lb (2,041 kg). That’s a big asset when you’re stuck or need a hand with work. As a woman who often goes out alone, I consider it an essential tool. In fact, I was grateful to have it when I slid off a trail one winter. The winch and a big tree were all I needed to get out.
Grab Bar Between Seats
Polaris added a grab bar between the two rows of seats in the Ranger. This adds extra safety for passengers in the back, especially on bumpy trails. My kids really appreciate that.
11 Years of Ranger Evolution
Improved driving and manoeuvrability
With my 2014 Ranger, I often had to go back and forth several times just to turn around. Now, with the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar, I can make tighter turns. That kind of manoeuvre is much easier now. The engine also decelerates more smoothly, which I love when going downhill—it slows itself down without me needing to brake.
Increased comfort
Windshield wiper with button
The 2025 Ranger XP 1000 now includes a wiper you can activate with a button from the cab during rainy or snowy rides. No more dirty windshield ruining visibility! Just press the washer button, and you’re good to go.
Cab Heating System
Riding my side-by-side at -20 °C without freezing is totally doable! The sealed cab includes a heating system that works great. With three kids, there’s always one who ends up soaked and barefoot. At least this way, they stay warm and cozy in the back seat!
Easy-to-Clean Interior
Speaking of wet kids—you can imagine the dirt, dust, and sand that piles up inside. Thankfully, the floor of the Ranger is flat, even by the doors. That makes sweeping up quick and easy after every outing. I actually keep a miniature broom under the front middle seat to help keep the cab clean and debris-free.
Exterior and Interior Lighting
The LED headlights make a huge difference for night riding. But what I really like is the ceiling light Polaris added inside the cab. It helps me check that everyone’s buckled in—and especially comes in handy when I need to find something on the floor or in the storage bin.
The Ranger XP 1000’s Limits After 3 Months of Use
We bought our trail beast in September. Our season wrapped up in mid-December with our traditional Lake Lamothe ride. I’ll talk about that more in a future article about our late-2025 edition. In this section, I’ll go over some aspects of the Ranger XP 1000 that could use improvement, in my opinion.
Weak Air Conditioning in Direct Sunlight
The Ranger XP 1000 doesn’t come standard with tinted windows. When the sun is strong, the A/C struggles to keep the cab cool. Based on my experience, it works fine up to around 15 °C—but past 25 °C in full sun, it gets hot fast.
Flip-Up Windshield: Too Expensive
Some 2025 models include a fully flip-up windshield. Unfortunately, ours didn’t. I would’ve liked that option, but the price difference wasn’t worth it for our needs. For 2025 models that do have it, the MSRP reflects that.
Electrical Package and Stereo
Our family loves listening to music on rides. Unfortunately, the stereo isn’t included with our Ranger XP 1000 version. That comes with the “electrical package”, which adds about $5,000 and includes power windows, a GPS screen, a navigator, and the stereo.
After thinking it over, we decided we didn’t need power windows. Instead of going with that package, we just installed a quality speaker between the two seat rows.
Tight Space Between Seats
To shorten the cab, Polaris moved the front seats slightly forward. That doesn’t bother me (I’m short), but taller people might find it cramped. Especially since the seat doesn’t adjust, unlike on the Can-Am Defender.
Slightly Long Wheelbase
The Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar has a 113″ wheelbase. That’s a bit long for deeply rutted or bumpy areas. That said, you can always adapt your driving.
Why the Ranger XP 1000 Is Perfect for Active Families
After three months of use, I can say the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Premium meets all my expectations. This six-seater side-by-side gives us the comfort we need for amazing days outdoors. We can now ride in any weather! That’s a luxury I wouldn’t give up. It’s still just as reliable, and I feel safe going out alone with my kids.
To wrap up: I used to think my 2014 Ranger was quiet, thanks to its rear engine. But with the sealed cab on our new Ranger, we can have full conversations while driving. I can honestly say the value for money is outstanding.
