Can-am has a model that had not undergone any major change since its introduction more than a decade ago. Rumors have been circulating for a few years and consumers have been hoping for a redesign of the Commander autoquad at Can-am.
First introduced in the 2010 model year, we had to wait until 2021 to get our hands on a completely revamped Can-am Commander. In fact, to be fair, BRP used its Maverick Sport model as the starting point for this redesign. The similarities are striking, and a quick glance is enough to see the obvious.
Nevertheless, the Can-am Commander remains a crossover autoquad, as it has several vocations: its rear dump bed allows it to carry heavy loads, while its engine and configuration allow it to attack the trails in a sporty manner without embarrassment.
Since this new 2021 Can-am Commander essentially uses the same chassis as the previous Can-am Maverick Sport models, we were already well aware of these particularities. Therefore, as far as the 2-seater model is concerned, it continues to be the chassis with the longest wheelbase. Its advantages are not undeniable, as the remote position of the wheels at the ends of the vehicle provides greater stability. Plus, taller users will enjoy the best legroom in its class.
Characteristics that cannot be denied
It’s well known that the Can-am Commander was, at the time, the first side-by-side vehicle developed by BRP. It’s known to do whatever it’s assigned to do, and it does it well. Its rear box can hold up to 8 cubic feet of cargo and can accommodate up to 600 lbs. It has a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs and service intervals of 3,000 km or annually. The suspension travel is the highest in its class, putting it in a class of its own.
A New Engine for 2022
When the redesign was launched in 2021, the Can-am Commander was offered with the 976cc ROTAX 1000R V-twin engine, which is designed to provide the necessary 100 horsepower to propel this autoquad. However, Can-am is offering a new engine to expand the selection available to consumers.
In both the DPS and XT versions, a new 52-horsepower Rotax ACE 700 engine is destined to become the new benchmark in the lower HP categories. In addition, its more minimalist design allows for less maintenance and therefore, a significant saving for the wallet.
In combination with this new engine, the engineers decided to pair it with the PDrive clutch to maximize the efficiency of this new engine. The result is simply perfect in every way.
2 new models
Apart from the new Rotax ACE 700, Can-am offers 2 new versions of its Commander model:
Can-am Commander X-TP
First, even though the Commander was offered in an X-TP version for 2021, it was only available in a 2-seat configuration. For 2022, we see the arrival of the MAX version (4 seats) of this coveted model. Equipped with FOX Podium QS3 2.5 shocks, it will be a very pleasant vehicle to ride with family or friends. In addition to the accessories already present on the XT model, this one has oversized XPS HAMMER FORCE 30-inch tires mounted on 15-inch cast aluminum wheels with a retaining ring. In fact, the list of accessories is quite extensive and impressive.
Can-Am Commander X-MR 2022.
For the upcoming model year, Can-Am is taking the lessons of the Maverick X MR and launching similar technology in its more affordable and utilitarian Commander lineup. For just over $27,000, you get a 976cc Rotax V-twin with 100 Hp.
The Can-Am Commander X-MR 2022 offers 15 inches of ground clearance thanks to 30-inch XPS Swamp Force tires wrapped around 14-inch cast aluminum wheels. The whole package is controlled by twin-tube gas shocks offering 14 inches of travel at each corner.
A 4500 lb synthetic rope winch positioned high on the front bumper will get this vehicle out of perilous situations. Strategic placement of the engine air intake and CVT air inlet/outlet will provide hours of fun in hard to reach places.
But by far the best feature you get on the X-MR is the Can-Am Smart-Lok system. It’s a true locking front differential that can either operate fully locked, or in intelligent 4×4 mode that reads the terrain and automatically locks and unlocks to match the conditions. For the Commander X-MR, Can-Am has tuned the unit specifically for mud and it is simply a vehicle for the intrepid and adventurous.
Lots of accessories and a windshield that is simply innovative!
Although Can-am offers 140 accessories to equip the Commander, the windshield itself is a must. It is well known that we have to make an agonizing choice when we want to equip our side-by-side with a windshield. A full windshield will give us better protection while the half windshield will give us better ventilation.
At Can-am, they understood this limitation and developed a ProVent windshield that will provide the best of both worlds. This pre-windshield made of Quantum† polycarbonate is highly impact resistant. It has adjustable air vents to control airflow and distributes air into the cabin, de-mists the windshield and closes completely to stop airflow. It includes an upper and lower air vent with pre-filters. It provides excellent optical clarity, abrasion resistance and protects the driver and passenger from the elements. In addition, it is quick to install and remove without tools.
In conclusion, without a doubt, the Can-am Commander is on its way to becoming a legend in its category. Its versatility and choice of accessories make this model a coveted vehicle for all. Once again, Can-am has outdone itself!
