Watch: Can-Am Traxter HD5 on test

The Can-Am Traxter HD5 is powered by a 427cc single-cylinder engine. Manufactured by Rotax, this 38hp block was the only petrol engine that took part in the comparison test.

This was down to the fact that Can-Am does not offer a diesel-powered UTV. The Traxter HD5 is equipped with a belt-driven CVT transmission that has a top speed of over 60km/h, the fastest in our test.

Cab

We felt that the Can-Am offered the most modern, sportiest-looking cab with the most attractive control layout. All controls were very accessible and the cab featured no unwanted clutter. We were particularly fond of the gear lever layout. It has park, reverse, neutral, high and low on the one lever, meaning there was no individual handbrake. The modern dashboard was a perfect size and it was easy to scroll through functions. The centrally mounted wiper was well positioned. The Can-Am was the only machine equipped with electric windows, probably an unnecessary spec for a farm machine, but still nice to have.

Despite really liking the modern styling inside, the cab did have a number of issues. Firstly, the windows were constantly steaming up. It seriously lacked a heater. Secondly, water was leaking in through the wiper motor. And finally, there was little or no soundproofing in the cab which was very disappointing. The doors opened the opposite way, which was quite unusual.

Driving

When it came to ride comfort, the Can-am was up there with the best. Once in high gear and with the foot down, the Traxter didn’t hang around thanks to its 427cc petrol-powered engine. This left us wondering what sort of an animal its larger brother, the HD10, would be with its 976cc engine. Overall, the Traxter pulled well loaded, tackling the trail’s deep mucky ruts and hills with ease. Cornering under load, it didn’t feel as planted compared to some of the other machines given their larger, heavier presence. This could only be expected, as it is 427kg lighter than the heaviest machine tested, the John Deere.

Features

The Can-Am had the lowest cargo box carrying capacity (272kg). However, it was by far the lightest machine (584kg). It was equipped with an electric tipping cargo box, which was fit to tip the entire 272kg rated weight. The doors were the widest point of the machine. This left them very exposed when travelling down narrow roadways.

Accessibility to the engine at the rear was good. Considering it is equipped with a petrol engine, we found the Can-Am to be a miser on fuel. Watch the full UTV test below