2025 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar Work Edition Utility Terrain Vehicle Review: The Top All-Purpose UTV That's a Worthy Investment

The Polaris Ranger XD 1500 is making waves in the utility terrain vehicle (UTV) market, offering a unique blend of comfort, capability, and luxury. This six-seater UTV stands out from its smaller counterparts, boasting a length of 164 inches and a wheelbase of 127 inches. With a 1,500-pound payload capacity and a larger bed, it's designed to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease.

One of the standout features of the Ranger XD 1500 is its towing capacity. With a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, it has been tested towing a canoe trailer weighing around 1,300 pounds. Its towing stability is stellar due to its long wheelbase, which is only an inch and some change shorter than the 2025 Ford Ranger.

The Ranger XD 1500 comes equipped with Polaris' Steeldrive continuously variable transmission, a unique feature as it uses a 100% steel belt instead of a rubber unit. This transmission ensures smooth, efficient power delivery, making shifts always easy. The UTV also features light steering, well-tuned suspension, and power that comes on gradually, providing a comfortable ride even on rough terrains.

The Ranger XD 1500 is not without its drawbacks, however. Unlike some off-road vehicles, it lacks a dedicated low range, which makes it less capable in specific off-road settings like short and steep climbs. In such situations, its Tow/Haul drive mode, which maximizes torque, may not be enough.

The Ranger XD 1500 is undeniably expensive, with the NorthStar Ultimate Edition costing $51,994 for a crew cab. This high price highlights the disparity between the Average Joe and the type of person who can afford to spend new truck money on a UTV. Yet, the Ranger XD 1500's cabin stays cool and comfortable, even during the July heat, with the AC cranked and the radio playing. It also comes with features such as touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, JBL speakers, and numerous switches and buttons for auxiliary lighting, a winch, and power windows.

Competition for the Ranger XD 1500 comes from the Mahindra Roxor, which boasts a larger 2.7-liter turbo diesel engine. However, the Roxor is only available as a two-door, making the Ranger XD 1500 a more versatile option for larger groups.

In conclusion, the Polaris Ranger XD 1500 is head and shoulders above other UTVs in terms of comfort and work capabilities. However, its high price may deter some buyers. For those who can afford it, the Ranger XD 1500 offers a superior UTV experience, making it the top model in Polaris' work lineup. Every Ranger XD 1500 is equipped with a dual-overhead cam three-cylinder engine, making 110 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, ensuring it can handle any task thrown its way.

2025 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar Work Edition Utility Terrain Vehicle Review: The Top All-Purpose UTV That's a Worthy Investment