Honda Pioneer 1000 vs. Can-Am Defender

1. Introduction

Honda has been manufacturing quality side by side products for years. They have always had the consumer in mind with wallets more modest. Many consumers are quite surprised to see the price tags on the new Honda Pioneer 1000s, with the Pioneer 1000-3 starting at $14,399.00, a full $1800.00 more than the already well-established and well-equipped 2015 Honda Pioneer 700-4. Honda's new Pioneer 1000 has been coined the "most complete" side-by-side on the market today. Now, what does "most complete" entail? This tagline has Honda lovers and others wondering if it's having a hard time figuring out where Honda was going with that tagline on a machine that looks good and totes more power than the models before it but is with a higher price tag. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of useful options on the Pioneer 1000, but is it what people really want or did Honda steer a bit off course and listen to the dealers. I'm sure going to dispense my opinion on it here. Now, the Pioneer 1000 is quite the fancy machine and it comes in a variety of options being the 1000-3, 1000-5, and 1000-5 deluxe. One important thing to note is that the first two models will include paddle shifters and come with a price difference of $800.00. The 1000-5 deluxe will come standard with the paddle shifters that will allow manual shifting and be equipped with a gear indicator and manual mode override, thus not allowing full-time usage of the model's 6-speed dual clutch transmission, so be prepared to put out an extra grand for this feature on the 5-seater model.

1.1. Overview of Honda Pioneer 1000

Honda’s Pioneer 1000 is well known as one of the company’s prestige side-by-sides. The Pioneer 1000 boasts the extra power of a 999cc twin-cylinder engine, a larger dump bed and towing capacity, and excellent levels of refinement and handling. The Pioneer 1000 is offered in two or four seat versions. The 1000-3 and 1000-5 are the only models available. Regardless of which version, the 1000 comes with a fully automatic six-speed dual clutch transmission. This new addition to the Pioneer is a big feature when it comes to comparing it to the competition. In automatic mode, the transmission utilizes sporty shift mapping to hold lower gears which will benefit terrain with inclines and declines. Honda claims the Pioneer 1000 is the best handling and most comfortable side-by-side they have made. We have been able to review the Pioneer 1000-3 LE and found the machine to be extremely comfortable with the new I-4WD system. I-4WD is a brake traction control system that applies the right amount of brake force to the slipping wheels when it detects a traction loss. This, in turn, transfers more torque to the wheels with grip and combined with the 4x4 and diff-lock will benefit handling and grip in a wide array of terrains. It also has 3 different driving modes depending on the situation. This new system is a great new addition to the Honda’s and we feel it definitely gives them an edge over the competition. They have also paid a great deal of attention to the interior. The comfortable and spacious cabin provides easy entry and exit with four doors and the high-quality seating provides all-day comfort. The dash has a new digital display with large speedometer and tachometer readouts, there is also a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, and much more. This LE model also has an impressive 999-watt electrical output to power accessories. Overall the attention to detail and build quality of this machine is very impressive. High levels of comfort and handling and the new I-4WD system combined with a 6-speed dual clutch auto transmission make this a great machine for a wide variety of utility uses and a long day of enjoyment.

1.2. Overview of Can Am Defender

The Can Am Defender can be found in a range like the Honda Pioneer 1000, but the closest comparison to the Pioneer 1000's three-seat model would be the Defender HD8 or HD10. There are five model variations of the Defender, all with the same engine and similar options for packages. The Defender HD8 has 50 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, while the HD10 model has 72 hp and 61 lb-ft of torque. Pricing ranges from $10,999 to $20,099 and offers many unique features that are not offered through Honda's product. An example would be the different styles of the Defender's variations, they can be bought in either a three-seat, full seat, or the "DPS" which is designed for comfortable driving, these models also come in either "base" or "XT" which are the same until considering the features listed in the packages. Features of the Defender include dual power, Eco/Work drive modes, a gas assist dump box with an impressive load capacity of 1000 lbs, control and comfort adjusting suspension, and less maintenance with the engine and transmission being positioned under the rear cargo. Though the Pioneer 1000 and Defender have the same horsepower, Can Am decided to take a touch more of a utility approach considering the models of each, and the fact that Honda has an attending sport model, the Pioneer 1000 EPS. The horsepower and torque on the Pioneer 1000 works it slightly harder considering the competition, but the extra push is mainly for the sake of the differing of terrain throughout driving. With that said, this would also include the Pioneer 1000 having a higher towing and load capacity. The Pioneer 1000 can tow up to 2000 lbs with power steering model being able to do this at ease with shifting needing to be done less often, and has a 1000 lbs capacity in the gas assist cargo bed that also carries an "intelligent" four mode electronic engine braking system to maintain the correct speed down steep hills. Both the Pioneer 1000 and Pioneer 1000 EPS are each priced somewhat lower than the Defender models, the basic Pioneer 1000 starting at $13,999 and the EPS at $14,799.

2. Performance

At the present we comprehend that you are paying a tremendous sum for this ride and the main thing you would anticipate is the force of that machine. Its 999 cc fluid cooled motor, the greatest one used in the entire power sports business and an awesome 72 degree V-twin motor design really fulfills the desires. It is intended to pull truly hard right to its redline, which additionally occurs to be the motor's solid point with a free streaming suppressor configuration and you can feel it directly from the start up to the max speed. A propelled programmed twin grasp 6 speed transmission finish the most impressive Pioneer to date. In contrast to a manual ATV, a programmed transmission is a genuine advantage in messy or rough conditions. Changing gears is simple and you should simply put it in drive and go. However, you can likewise shift physically by the guiding line mounted oar shifters, and Honda claims better execution and productivity with this transmission than some other UTV to date with lessening drive train power misfortune and weight since there are no belts or pulleys. Step execution with the DCT is still new to some, yet to be really straightforward, best case scenario in a rough terrain circumstance you can multiply a machine's rate by 4; 1 is the thing that you do often in root or shake to section. This is a considerably less inclined to sway the force to weight proportion and torque needed to move the machine and obviously Pioneer 1000 will have none of this effect. With this framework, in the long run a programmed twin grip transmission will be a staple for everything UTV's come 2018 and trust Honda have said this and has spread out the bar for different producers. Next up is the move to the I-4WD framework and concede it will be a period before this is clarified right yet. Basically, it is as yet an elite front differential lock, yet the distinction is while a lock 4WD likely would insightfully keep on deciding phony grasp and not get the coming about strength to the ground, here the ECU can control the sum and type (open or lock) of the grip genuine being corresponding to following through on the driver's solicitations to the point of making it the most effective and powerful. This may be ideal for perhaps future UTV proposals in 1000 or 1000+cc segment coming from different organizations. Last on the drive train and Pioneer 1000 will be the one of the main UTVs since the Rhino to have a genuine low range outfit for maximum additional pushing and pulling force, and you will absolutely not need to stress over a motor that feels moderate. With a particularly strong drive train arrangement, the motor pace of work will just now and then be changing from low or high to try not to battle to accomplish a specific undertaking. High, low, or maxing out, this machine upholds these functions with different motor patterns and, albeit easy to use isn't the lone purpose. This is a decent drive train planned basically for hard labor.

Does on the off chance that you are searching for some quick moving and the amazing quality side by side vehicle name than clearly the name Honda comes into your brain as this is the name of value with trust. In the market you will going to discover such countless side by side vehicle brands whose models are without a doubt included with the remarkable level offerings and are for certain alluring bends thus the fundamental factor of Honda Pioneer 1000-5 is its entrenched name frequently individuals get them simply because of that trust with the brand. Well you can never say this with no dread that it won't give you that level of value or speed or force which that brand is promising and the item is being cost. Honda brand fans never lament on the items and most presumably it's not going to be this in the event of Pioneer also. Because of the BMI and higher grade of steel utilized in its body gives it the solidness which a solid racer expects in its ride and afterward the force of 999 cc fluid cooled motor got the job done to cause you to feel the genuine rush and high speed riding.review is about Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Performance 2 and 2.1.

2.1. Engine Power and Capability

Pioneer 1000 has a reliable 999cc twin with a few cylinders. It still motors with a load of torque. The actual slit by itself turned out loads, provided the particular uni-plenum gas treatment, 12.5:1 data compression plus four-valve cylinder head working away at the particular energy, and also a great deal should be provided to the particular large tube duration that can help make a broad torque challenge. CVT indication includes a stable, direct generate products move. Using a equipment decrease 32% lower than the particular change simply by CRF450R, and 7% below the particular prior TRX680. Decrease equipment variety option right now provides one more 37% decrease, for all over mixed products reduction in around 68%, or even a already beat the particular Pioneer 500. Electric power provide for the particular reduction by means of shaft get immediately to the top and also raise differential equipment. Shafts tend to be instantly connected to the particular generate equipment, which was "walked" returning on the search positions to provide faster however mild increase in rate for the back and also entrance automobile. With these kinds of developments, plus weighing anywhere between minimal 10 ~ 15% improvement in paving (the product range things reduce this specific by means of 36% reduction), this can probable increase the Honda UTV's ability to honda pioneer 1000 at each developed on the rise and also increasing trails.

2.2. Handling and Suspension

The handling of a vehicle is a key factor in the enjoyment of off-road driving. Both the Can Am Defender and Honda Pioneer 1000 boast comfortable steering wheels with tilt features, which make it easy to get comfortable behind the wheel. They're also both similarly designed for ease of entry/exit. Independent front and rear suspension with dual A-arm is found in both the Honda and the Can Am. This allows all 4 tires to move independently, which results in better contact on the ground. The Honda Pioneer has 10.55 inches of front suspension travel and 10 inches in the rear, while the Can Am Defender has 10 inches of travel for both the front and the rear. Travel numbers here are healthy for both machines and the differences aren't enough to have an impact on overall performance. The Honda offers three drive modes, 2WD, 4WD and differential lock, which can be selected via a dash mounted lever. Front differential lock mode (4WD with the differential locked) further improves 4WD traction by preventing a speed differential between the front wheels. It also reduces steering effort. The Can Am Defender has Visco-4Lok, a secondary front differential lock system, which engages 4WD with a locked differential, and provides varying strength of 4WD when the 4Lok lever is engaged at different speeds. Each vehicle has its own benefits and these systems are both excellent for improving handling and traction when tackling tough terrain.

3. Features and Technology

Pioneer 1000 has room. It's that basic. How you use that space is the thing that separates it. The outline of Pioneer 1000 means work can be accomplished with no whine to heap a vehicle trailer for every single occupation. The huge dumping back load bed can convey to 453.6kg (1000 lbs) and its weighted door help you securely convey materials. Call attention to of contrast is rack and pinion exchange Pioneer 1000 uses a rack and pinion guiding framework rather than a controlling section. This guarantees its smooth and precise guiding reaction is independent from motor torque, so drivers have better directing feel. With directional control so significant in 2/4wd and with the expansion of D+/S modes drivers should be certain of where they need the vehicle to go. A guiding section outline exchanges motor torque to the guiding stem, regularly making a directing impact at the front wheels which influences the driver's control. This might be viewed as something to be thankful for throughout the icy months, it relinquishes the precision and pole control that is discriminating for the best possible front tire arrangement and to guiding feel in 2wd. Honda holds its EPS set away in the undercarriage of the vehicle on the Pioneer 1000 EPS model offering the force help and guiding feel drivers need without yielding EPS sturdiness.

3.1. Comfort and Convenience

Finally, both vehicles have a large cargo bed in the rear. The Honda Pioneer 1000 dimensions are 40.1 inches wide, 35.6 inches long, and 7.8 inches deep. There is a 1000-pound payload capacity, the gate has a load height of 28.8 inches above the ground, and can support 250 pounds. Included on all the 1000-5 models, the tailgate can be opened conventionally or to the side.

Both models seat 3, 5, or 6 adults with two bucket seats up front and a bench-style seating in the rear. However, the Honda Pioneer 1000 has two seats designed for larger adults, while the Can-Am Defender RANGER has 3 seats designed for adults. The Defender seat also has 4 inches of front-to-back adjustability for a more comfortable riding experience. Another feature on the Can Am Defender is its ability to modulate the entry level between the seats on the seat and steering. This is a very unique feature to the Defender, as no other SXS or MUV vehicle offers this feature. This is said to become standard in all vehicles sold in North America in the future to prevent accidents between small children and the driver.

When comparing the Honda Pioneer 1000 and the Can Am Defender in terms of comfort and convenience, the Honda Pioneer 1000 tends to lead in most areas. Although both vehicles need installation of the roof, a windshield, and the hard doors, the Honda Pioneer 1000 comes standard with a roof, a windshield, and doors where the Can Am Defender does not. Also available as an option, the Honda Pioneer 1000-5 models come with a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, which is very convenient when needing to enter or exit the vehicle. On the contrary, the Can Am Defender XT and XT Cab models do not feature this option.

3.2. Safety and Security

The Honda Pioneer prides itself on a superior level of safety and comfort. The appliance-style gate shifter is a fun and practical new ergonomic innovation that adds convenience and comfortable functionality. The inhibitor provides an extra layer of protection to prevent unintended shifting. Automotive-grade paint and premium materials used in construction deliver added durability and an A-arm and strut suspension provides a bump-eating friendly ride. For greater performance, the Twin I-Beam Suspension on the Can Am Defender HD10 is much more effective for smoothing out a heavy load over rough terrain. This feature can prevent heavy cargo in the bed of the machine from bottoming out as easily. The Honda Pioneer has a 3-person capacity while Defenders come in many models fully loaded with a crew of 4. The Defender XT offers other possible 3-person and 6-person seating options in the same machine. Whether it is the I-Beam Defender or the A-arm Pioneer, all suspension features and drive systems are among the best in the game. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and a fully locking Driveline can be found in both machines. With towing capacities and tight brake systems, both of these vehicles are safe options on a variety of smooth and rocky terrain.

The two vehicles vary dramatically in body style, but both are built for safety and performance. The Paladin plate and rock sliders on the Pioneer offer added peace of mind while maneuvering over rough terrain. The Can Am Defender has a full body style with side impact bars built into the frame. Finally, 3-point emergency locking restraints come standard on any Defender model. Riders of the Pioneer use a lap belt style fastening system.

3.3. Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment and connectivity features differ in both companies' vehicle offerings. The Can-Am Defender comes with a 4.5-inch digital display with keypad, while the Honda Pioneer 1000 possesses a more traditional instrument panel. The Pioneer's digital display lets the driver read vehicle speed, engine speed, selectable 2WD/4WD, fuel gauge, gear position, trip meter, hour meter, clock, odometer, and optional diagnostic code, while the Can-Am's version includes state-of-the-art instrumentation. Additionally, the Defender is equipped with a Radio/Nav-Analog as well as a Dual-Speaker Audio System, both of which are add-ons. This is a major win for Can-Am in this department as Honda doesn't offer a factory audio system for the Pioneer. The Honda comes with shift lever position indicators for both its standard and automatic transmission models as a small compensation for the more modern features of the Defender. Shift lever position indicators are an excellent feature when towing or parking on hills as it confirms to the driver the gear the vehicle is in. Both machines feature a large storage compartment suitable for a 1/2 DIN radio or an additional dry storage compartment. However, the Can-Am's will leave holes in your dashboard if not optioned with the Audio System. Finally, both machines offer a range of accessories for in-cab comfort and convenience.

4. Price and Value

The Honda Pioneer 1000, as well as the Can Am Defender, has a high upfront cost. The Can Am is priced at a range of $10,000 to $15,000, and the Pioneer starts at $13,000 and will reach into the $16,000s with additions such as power steering and the deluxe model. The features are the most advanced on the market for side by sides, and the durability and Honda and Can Am reputation guarantee that they will be excellent machines for many years. The Pioneer has the drivetrain and the suspension has the top-of-the-line features and performance that will make it run like new for more years than a typical competitor model. Part of what you are paying for in the purchase of the Honda are the many extra features that will make your trips more comfortable, fun, or safe than in the competitors' machines. The Defender is also similarly well-equipped to the Pioneer. Honda and Can Am are makers that produce high-quality ATVs and side by sides that will typically be worth more and last longer than other brands. When doing a cost comparison of the two machines, it is very important to take into consideration which features are desired and how much an individual values quality and performance. With the release of the Pioneer, Honda has also developed a new set of ATV tires and wheels, as well as a new line of Honda-branded ITP wheels and tires. These would complement the newfound standard in acceleration and handling that the Pioneer has set in comparison to its competitors. The advanced features on the Pioneer are going to outshine the base model Defender, so a Pioneer owner would be comparing a deluxe to deluxe model. This provides for a $1000 price difference, and with options that include a fully automatic transmission, power steering, and a roll cage, Honda is likely to appeal to many customers that would have otherwise purchased a base or used Defender.

4.1. Cost Comparison

On the other hand, the Defender has a very good track record of reliability in terms of its "RotoMax" engine that has been used in the past in the Can Am Outlander series. In the long term, it may be more difficult to compare reliability until the models of each vehicle age and have put in more miles. This is information that both new and used buyers should consider when choosing which vehicle to buy with the long term in mind.

Another factor that could affect a model's long-term price is reliability, vehicle repairs, and cost of ownership. Although it is no guarantee, Honda vehicles generally have a reputation for extremely reliable engines and won’t have as many problems over the course of their life compared to some competitors. This could mean a Honda Pioneer may have a better resale value and last longer than a Can Am Defender, and can be a factor that changes the marginal difference in price to a difference in value over time.

One major factor that should be considered in price comparison is current manufacturer deals and offers. At the time of writing this article, Honda is offering a year-end factory-to-dealer incentive on the 2016 Pioneer 1000 that allows dealers to discount new models up to $600. This would make a brand new Pioneer 1000 model significantly closer in price range to a Can Am Defender, and is the type of promotion that happens frequently with newer models of vehicles. Customers should always be on the lookout for deals such as these, but it would also be wise to time a purchase to coincide with such an event.

The Honda Pioneer 1000 and Can Am Defender have very comparable features, so one of the best ways to distinguish the two would be to look at the price and see if one is a better value than the other. Both vehicles are priced similarly, with the Pioneer 1000 starting at roughly $14,399 while the Can Am Defender starts at $10,999. Pricing does change depending on the specific model and features each individual may want, so it’s always best to consult the manufacturers and dealers. The Defender's lower starting price may give it an edge in the value department, however, there are many factors that can come into play.

4.2. Resale Value and Reliability

Honda and Can Am would be competing companies in average consumers' minds. The undying question when it comes to buying a new UTV is "Is it going to be reliable and will I get my money back out of it when I sell it?" Anyone who knows anything about automotive industries would know the Japanese have the upper hand in reliability because of their dedication to engineering, quality, and testing, and the Honda Pioneer is no exception to that rule. Given that the Pioneer is still a relatively new model considering UTVs have been around for 10+ years, data is scarce on the Pioneer 1000 specifically. However, pricing available online shows that 2016 models are selling for $16K and 2017 models selling for $18K. Given that these numbers are 70-75% of the retail value of the UTV, this could never happen with a Can Am. Can Am's depreciate faster based on the sheer fact that they are known for having electrical/mechanical issues due to the fact that they use the consumer base as guinea pigs to find out what works and what doesn't rather than doing that in R&D and testing. The Defender has been known to have extensive belt issues and clutching issues to the point in which people were trading them in after a year of having the UTV. Data available on the original Can Am Commander shows that new Commanders were being sold for $14.5-15K when they first came out and people began to trade them in, and the retail value of these Commanders was $4-6K. This is about a 25% return on the initial investment, and the transition of Commander to Defender in the used market will reflect this. The additional cost in time and money to fix, and stress of having to fix it detracts substantially from the resale value of the UTV.