/R E P E A T -- Can-Am Launches New Generation Defender Side-by-Side, Engineered to Outperform/
Rhea-AI Summary
BRP Inc. (NASDAQ: DOOO) has unveiled its next-generation Can-Am Defender side-by-side vehicle for 2026, featuring a complete redesign to enhance performance and capability. The new model is powered by an HD11 999cc Rotax ACE engine delivering 95 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new continuously variable transmission.
Key improvements include a larger 11.9-gallon fuel tank, enhanced suspension with 12 inches of travel, 15 inches of ground clearance, and a new 10.25" touchscreen display with GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity. The vehicle offers best-in-class payload, towing, and cargo capacity, complemented by improved ergonomics, LED lighting, and a robust 1700-Watt charging system.
The 2026 lineup includes six configurations: Defender XT, XT CAB, X mr, Limited, Lone Star, and Lone Star CAB, available in both 3-seat and 6-seat variations.
Positive
- New HD11 engine delivers increased power with 95 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque
- Best-in-class payload, towing and cargo capacity
- Enhanced charging system with 1700 Watts output, double the previous generation
- Improved technology with 10.25" touchscreen display featuring GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Largest cab in its class with 8% more leg room than competitors
- Reduced maintenance costs with longer service intervals
Negative
- None.
News Market Reaction – DOOO
On the day this news was published, DOOO gained 2.57%, reflecting a moderate positive market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
"At Can-Am, we know that the clock never stops for the farmers, ranchers and builders around the world," said Julie Tourville, Director, Global Marketing, Can-Am Off-Road at BRP. "This new Defender platform is built to prove it and match the unstoppable spirit of our hardworking customers. From managing farmland, to running a job site, or escaping to the backcountry, the new generation Defender is all about bringing true value to our riders with practical and best-in-class features, industry-leading technology and reliable performance that they can count on to help them get the job done and beyond."
Powertrain
At the core of the next-generation Can-Am Defender is an all-new HD11 999cc inline three-cylinder Rotax ACE engine, boasting 95 horsepower and 70 lb-ft of torque. The HD11 powerplant is paired with an all-new continuously variable transmission (CVT) and pDrive primary clutch that are designed to put power to the ground with precision and improve low-speed power delivery, while enhancing reliability. With three new selectable drive modes – Normal, Work and Sport – the engine optimizes performance for the toughest tasks, from towing heavy loads to conquering some of the most demanding terrains.
A new intake system promotes airflow to bolster engine performance, while an updated cooling system manages engine temperature and enhances HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) performance. The 2026 Defender XT packages are equipped with a new Quick-4Lok auto-locking front differential, while the Limited, Lone Star and X mr packages carry the automatic, electronically controlled Smart-Lok front differential to maximize traction in most conditions.
The new Defender continues to lead the way with best-in-class payload, towing and cargo capacity, and it now comes equipped with a new, larger 11.9-gallon fuel tank that enables longer days on the job or trail.
Suspension and Chassis
A best-in-class powertrain demands a suspension package and chassis that are up to the task. The 2026 Defender features new suspension geometry with a 65-inch-wide design and
Finally, the new, larger 262mm front brake rotors are gripped by 32mm hydraulic twin piston calipers and new brake pads, providing confidence-inspiring stopping power, even under heavy loads.
Workability and Rider Experience
Working harder and smarter than ever before, the 2026 Defender offers comfort when riders want it and next-level capability when they need it. The ergonomics start with the largest cab in its class and
The new Defender Limited and Lone Star packages are equipped with an updated HVAC system, improving cooling and heating capacity. A simple three-knob system provides convenient climate control adjustment. CAB models also benefit from noise, vibration and harshness reduction for better communication with passengers thanks to a new roof liner, rear wall insulation and floor mats.
Designed to take the rider experience to the next level, the new 10.25'' Touchscreen Display packs a range of useful features, including a back-up camera and built-in GPS to track every ride and locate friends with or without a phone or network connection. This infotainment system also lets riders seamlessly control music, monitor ride statistics, manage accessories and unlock advanced off-road navigation features through the BRP GO! app. With integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, it supports over-the-air software updates, so owners can effortlessly access the latest features as they become available. The 10.25'' Touchscreen Display comes standard on all Limited and Lone Star models, and it's available as an option on the XT and XT CAB.
With over 200 accessories available to choose from, riders can customize their Defender to best suit their riding style and work needs. From convenient LinQ cargo boxes, to the new integrated plow mount and intuitive SMART accessories, this workhorse is a blank canvas ready for personalization. When it comes to outfitting the 2026 Defender with electronic accessories or powering tools and equipment, the new charging system produces 1700 Watts, doubling the output of the previous generation.
To enhance the rider's line of sight in low-light conditions, the 2026 Defender features new LED headlights that produce
Designed with the rider in mind, the new Defender offers convenient access to service points, and it has some of the longest service intervals and lowest maintenance costs in the industry. This means less downtime for repairs and more time on the trail or taking on tough jobs.
Vehicle Lineup
The 2026 Defender HD11 has six distinct model configurations: the Defender XT, Defender XT CAB, Defender X mr, Defender Limited, Defender Lone Star and Defender Lone Star CAB. These configurations are offered in standard (3-seat), except for the Lone Star, and MAX (six-seat) variations for each of them. Defender HD7, HD9 and HD10 models also return for 2026.
To learn more about the Can-Am Defender lineup, visit can-am.brp.com.
About BRP
BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Quintrex boats,
Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Rotax,
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SOURCE BRP Inc.
FAQ
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