Argo vs Can-Am Maverick (Side by Side)

Maverick

These UTVs are powered by a liquid-cooled, fuel injected 976cc Rotax V-Twin which is connected to a CVT with a low range gear. From there, power is sent to the wheels via a selectable four-wheel drive system with an automatically locking front differential.

The Maverick uses a torsional trailing A-arm suspension that offers the advantages of a 5 link suspension in a smaller size while minimizing bump steer and scrubbing when compared to other compact setups like solid axles. With this suspension, the UTV has 12 inches of ground clearance. All models come with power steering that can be set to three modes of assist to fit the current riding conditions.

At 118.8×60 inches, BRP promotes the compact size of the two-seater XC for narrow trails. Move up to a four-seat MAX and the dimensions increase to 148×68.3 inches. Both models have a small amount of onboard storage, but neither vehicle has the ability to tow a trailer.

The Maverick X MR adds a high mounted intake and exhaust for driving in the mud, but otherwise included equipment for these vehicles is sparse. A couple models come with a Can Am-branded winch built by Superwinch and rated at 4,500 lbs, while there are a few factory accessories available including skid plates, cab enclosures, a single gun boot and a Warn winch with the same rating as the Superwinch.

Argo 8×8 Conquest and Avenger

Argo offers their 8 wheel XTVs with Kohler’s Command Pro and Aegis engines. Both motors are 747cc V-twins with liquid cooling and fuel injection, like the Maverick’s Rotax powerplant. It also uses a CVT with a low range gear, but the design allows all 8 wheels to be powered all the time for maximum traction with minimal scrubbing. Since steering is brake-controlled, steering effort is the same on any surface, eliminating the need for a selectable system like the Maverick.

Since XTVs float, exhaust and intake position is not an issue: any model is equally capable of crossing water without needing special equipment. The giant, low-pressure tires also reduce ground pressure, giving them far superior traction on mud and sand because they can drive over these surfaces instead of digging into them.

Unlike the Maverick, any XTV can tow a trailer with weight limits ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 lbs. depending on the model. Winches are also included on some Argos, and while their 3,500 lb. Rating can’t match BRP’s offerings, all of these winches are made by Warn. Avengers and some Conquest models also include a wiring kit, letting you attach the winch to the front or back as needed.

At 119×58 inches, the Frontier 8×8 S is smaller than the XC while still being able to carry up to 6 people. Move up to a fully loaded Avenger Hunt Master, and you end up a vehicle that is just 5 inches longer and two inches wider while adding a winch, front rack, brush guard and a gun rack that holds four rifles. Add in its zero turning radius steering, and you get a vehicle that is far more capable on narrow trails.

Verdict

Aside from an edge in power from its larger engine and higher winch capacity, Can Am’s Maverick can’t match the capabilities of an XTV. The Argo is smaller and more maneuverable, it doesn’t sacrifice utility, and any model can outperform the X MR on mud.

Find Out More at Shank’s Argo

Want an off-road vehicle that can do more than a standard UTV? Talk to the experts at Shank’s Argo: we have over 30 years of experience selling and maintaining outdoor power equipment. We’re located at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. That’s just off Route 11, one mile east of I-81. Want to schedule a demo or need parts for your Argo? Visit us online at www.shanksargo.com.