Polaris Ranger vs. XPEDITION: Which Is Better?

Get ready to rev up your off-road experience with Polaris' latest marvels: the 2024 Ranger XD 1500 Northstar and the 2024 XPEDITION XP Northstar! 

Whether you're hauling heavy loads or conquering rough terrain, we've got the details to help you decide which beast reigns supreme. With a close look at the specs, capabilities, and unique features of both the Polaris Ranger and XPEDITION, plus the addition of Kemimoto’s gear enhancing your ride, this Kemimoto blog will steer you toward the side-by-side that's the right fit for you.

Let’s dive into the blog to see which Polaris ride reigns supreme for your needs!

• Polaris Ranger vs. XPEDITION Specs
• Polaris Ranger Overview vs. XPEDITION
• Polaris Ranger Typical Features
• XPEDITION Typical Features
• Polaris Ranger Pros and Cons
• XPEDITION Pros and Cons
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Polaris Ranger vs. XPEDITION Specs

Polaris Ranger Overview vs. XPEDITION

Source: Polaris

1. Engine

The Ranger XD boasts a Triple Cylinder engine with 110 HP, while the XPEDITION sports a Twin Cylinder engine with 114 HP. But the XPEDITION’s power-per-pound is like an agile elf: 24 lbs per hp.

2. Braking

Both Polaris Ranger XD 1500 and XPEDITION XP have robust braking systems. 

The Ranger XD 1500's automotive-style vacuum braking system provides superior stopping power, supporting its heavy-duty towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and cargo capacity of 1,500 pounds. You can control all of that load and confidently stop the Ranger. 

3. Transmission

The Ranger XD 1500 comes with an oil-cooled SteelDrive auto CVT touted to last up to 50,000 miles, offering greater reliability over the traditional rubber band auto CVT found in the XPEDITION. 

The Ranger has the added tow-haul mode to facilitate smooth creeping—simply ease off the throttle, and the vehicle rolls forward like a regular car, eliminating the need for constant footwork. 

4. Cargo & Towing Capacity

The Ranger flexes with a 1500 lb cargo prowess, outshining XPEDITION XP's 600 lb. It’s your powerful partner for the heavy lifting! However, if you don’t need a fortress for your cargo, either ride is regal. 

As for towing, the Polaris Ranger XD 1500 is just like a truck and pulls like a champ with 3500 pounds, while XPEDITION trails at 2000 pounds. 

5. Suspension

The Range XD 1500 has 12 in of suspension travel. Its suspension system, including the springs and shocks, can handle loads as many as an F-150.

Even if you put a ton of weight in Ranger XD 1500, it doesn’t squish the spring at all. It allows you to have everything on the trails and the farm a lot faster than you would in a truck. While it’s a concern whether the Ranger can withstand all that weight and still have a good ride.

The XPEDITION has a Dual A-Arm with a Stabilizer Bar 14 in front travel and a Dual Arm IRS with a Stabilizer Bar 15 in rear travel.

6. Ground Clearance

The Ranger XD 1500 has a 15-inch ground clearance completing robust suspension, capable of handling heavy loads without sagging, whereas the XPEDITION XP offers 14 inches of clearance. 

Both vehicles have a 30-inch tire, but the Polaris says that Ranger can even fit 32-inch tires without modification—an impressive feat right out of the box!

7. Winch 

A 6,000-pound higher-capacity winch sets the Ranger XD 1500 apart. It's a higher-capacity winch than on any other UTV we've seen.

The Polaris also quipped with a 7-foot snow plow that mounts to the front of the vehicle. It’s almost like you've got your own superhero assistant at your service!

In contrast, XPEDITION XP has a Polaris HD 4500 LB winch, which includes Autostop & Plow Mode.

8. Comfort and Cab

The Ranger XD 1500 boasts a fully enclosed, quiet cabin with adjustable steering wheels. It includes upgraded seats with faux leather and bolstering that can slide forward and back for added comfort. 

Besides, the Ranger keeps out dust and water with its stronger chassis that minimizes gaps. Plus, the Ranger has an HVAC system that includes an in-cabin air filter, so you can take it on the dustiest trails and remain clean and relatively free from dust while breathing fresh air. 

Moreover, the Ranger has a center console fitted with four cup holders; certain models might even have up to six, offering plenty of room for your drinks.

When it comes to the XPEDITION, It‘s also comfortable and features heat and AC, HVAC temperature and zone controls, and lockable full doors &  full-power window doors. However, some riders have noted that it has a noisy cab and lets in the dust.

9. Glass Windshield

Polaris XD 1500 Northstar Northstar comes equipped with a fixed glass windshield with a windshield wiper and a windshield washer. It’s especially useful to keep clean all day long, especially on a dusty day. 

In comparison, the Polaris XPEDITION NorthStar features a tip-out front laminated glass windshield against scratch, enabling the swing fully open for maximum airflow.

10. Cost

There's only a $1000 difference between these two models. XPEDITION XP is a tad easier on the pockets at $43,999, while Ranger XD 1500 Northstar needs $44, 999.

If you want to amp up the luxury and don't mind spending an additional $5,000, you can upgrade to the Ranger 1500 XD's Ultra Package. This premium add-on includes a convenient flip-up windshield—something that comes standard on the XPEDITION—a more robust front bumper, and, for the cherry on top, heated seats!

Polaris Ranger Typical Features

Source: Motortrend 

• Protection features: The bumper has D-rings, a robust top hood and top bar, a large rear rack, and integrated LED auxiliary lights, these protection features make the Ranger ideal for challenging tasks and terrain. 

• Durable tires: The 30" Kenda Crosstrail tires have an 8-ply rating for durability.

• Steel chassis: The high-strength heavy-duty steel chassis is designed to be stronger and more durable.

• Radiators: The Ranger outshines with three radiators—-one for coolant, another for CVT transmission oil, and a third for the air conditioning system. These components are as big as those you would find on an F-150, ensuring the vehicle stays cool even when it's being worked hard.

XPEDITION Typical Features

One of the reasons why you would pick XPEDITION is it provides a camper shell option, fold-down back seats, and other adventure-friendly accessories that cater to you if you’re an overlanding enthusiast.

Polaris Ranger Pros and Cons

Pros 

• Quiet and spacious cabin with more leg and shoulder room
• Higher towing capacity and cargo box capacity
• Plenty of ground clearance and excellent suspension
• Hill Assist
• Electric dump bed
• Beefed up chasis, belts, etc.

Cons

• Throttle Comfort mode mutes the throttle too much
• Not a racing UTV
• Transmission adjusts the throttle mapping
• Tap the brake and it will start to engine brake

XPEDITION Pros and Cons

Source: Motortrend

Pros

• 114 HP ProStar 1000 Gen 2 engine
• Heat and AC
• GPS mapping on 7-inch Club touch display
• Ride Command Technology
• Hydraulic assist dump bed
• Front & Rear Cameras
• Responsive and handles bumps well

Cons

• Some owners report the XPEDITION has a noisy cab
• Dust intrusion

Conclusion

Source: Atvhunt

When all is said and done, the choice between the 2024 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 Northstar and the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION XP Northstar boils down to your preferences, use purposes, and budget. 

If it's high towing ability and payload you're after, go with the Ranger; for nimble overlanding excitement, the XPEDITION shines. 

With our blog post, you can now confidently choose your Polaris side-by-side today and hit the trails in style! 

Dive deeper into each model's capabilities at your local Polaris dealer or online, and gear up for your next great off-road adventure with confidence. 

FAQs

1. What Is a Polaris XPEDITION?

The Polaris XPEDITION is a side-by-side vehicle designed for overlanding, tight trails, and rugged terrain. It comes in two-seater and five-seater variants. The XPEDITION is a compact, rugged vehicle that's smaller and more nimble than a regular truck or off-roader. The XPEDITION is not street-legal. 

The XPEDITION has car-like comfort and technology. It has a  600-lb cargo space and a 2,000-lb towing capacity.

2. How Much Is the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION?

Here are some other 2024 Polaris XPEDITION models and their prices: 

• XPEDITION XP Premium: $28,999

• XPEDITION XP 5 ULTIMATE: $35,999 

• XPEDITION XP 5 NORTHSTAR: $43,999

• XPEDITION ADV PREMIUM: $29,999

• XPEDITION ADV ULTIMATE: $32,999 

• XPEDITION ADV 5 NORTHSTAR: $44,999 

3. What Is the Range of the Polaris XPEDITION?

The 2024 Polaris XPEDITION has a fuel range of 200 miles, helping get you deeper into the backcountry. It has a 12.5-gallon fuel tank, the largest standard fuel tank in the market. This gives the XPEDITION a fuel efficiency of about 16 miles per gallon. 

4. Does Polairs XPEDITION Have AC?

Yes, the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION heat and air conditioning, and power window full doors to keep the elements out. 

5. How Many Miles per Gallon Does a Polaris XPEDITION Get?

Polaris says the 2024 Polaris XPEDITION can get up to 200 miles of range out of its 12.5-gallon fuel tank, or about 16 miles per gallon. However, some owners report getting 17+ miles per gallon.