Key facts
A flagship that challenges sports cars
The Hyundai Elantra N, at $35,100, produces 276 hp and is considered one of the best sports sedans. The new Polaris RZR Pro R Boost almost exactly matches that figure — 275 hp — but in a completely different format. It is a compact off-road buggy that, at the same time, makes the Elantra N a good deal, since the new Polaris costs significantly more.
Powertrain and dynamics
Under the hood is a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It produces 275 hp and 302 Nm of torque. The transmission is all-wheel drive with the ability to switch to two-wheel drive. The buggy is offered in Ultimate and Ultra trims, as well as with two or four doors.
The lightest version weighs 1,212 kg, the heaviest 1,366 kg. The manufacturer does not provide acceleration figures, but with a CVT and no need to shift gears, this machine promises to be very fast. The turbocharger design allows peak power to be maintained even at altitudes up to 3,000 meters. In addition, engineers improved the cooling system so the buggy can withstand the toughest conditions.
Chassis and suspension
Electronic dual-valve Fox shocks are responsible for off-road capability. They actively adjust compression and rebound on each shock up to 200 times per second. Internal bypass shocks are used at the front and rear. All versions have 15-inch wheels with 32-inch tires. Ground clearance is 16 inches, so almost no obstacle exists for this buggy.
Modern equipment
Despite its off-road character, the cabin is packed with technology. There is a weather-resistant Rockford Fosgate audio system, a 10.4-inch vertical multimedia display with Apple CarPlay, built-in GPS, a 4-inch driver display, heated and ventilated bucket seats, a sport steering wheel, and optional Bluetooth headsets.
How much does it cost
The main deterrent is the price. The base two-door RZR Pro R Boost Ultimate starts at $49,999. The four-door Ultimate costs $53,999. Ultra trims are more expensive: $52,999 for the two-door and $56,999 for the four-door version.
What this means for buyers
These models occupy a special niche: they are not intended for regular roads, but for sand dunes, rocky trails, and off-road terrain, this is essentially a racing projectile. Polaris deliberately compares its power to that of the Elantra N to emphasize how serious the performance from a compact off-roader can be. For this money, one could buy more than one sports car, but none of them can climb over a rock or a dune where this RZR feels at home.