Whether you’re cruising through desert dunes, scaling rocky trails, or just enjoying a weekend ride through the woods, side-by-sides (also known as UTVs) have become a must-have for off-road enthusiasts. As the market expands, choosing the right brand of side by side can be a bit overwhelming. From performance and reliability to customization and price, every rider has different needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the top brands of side by sides, explore what makes each unique, and help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Side by Side (UTV)?
A side-by-side (SxS or UTV) is a small, off-road vehicle built to carry passengers side-by-side rather than straddled like an ATV. Designed with roll cages, safety harnesses, cargo beds, and powerful engines, these machines are versatile — perfect for recreational adventures, ranch work, trail maintenance, and even emergency response teams in remote areas.
Why the Brand Matters
Just like in the automotive world, brands of side by sides bring distinct features, quality standards, and specialties to the table. Some are better for sport, others for utility, and a few manage to balance both worlds.
The brand you choose impacts:
Engine performance & durability
Ride comfort & handling
Aftermarket customization availability
Resale value
Maintenance & support
Top Brands of Side by Sides to Watch in 2025
Let’s dive into some of the most reputable and sought-after UTV manufacturers dominating the market.
Polaris
When people think about brands of side by sides, Polaris is often the first name that comes up — and for good reason.
- Flagship Models:
RZR (sport)
Ranger (utility)
General (multi-purpose)
Why Polaris Stands Out:
Industry leader in performance and tech
Extensive dealer and parts network
Powerful ProStar engines
Dynamic electronic power steering and ride command systems
Polaris models are also a favorite for full-body wrap customization due to their bold styling and modular design, making them a prime choice for businesses or personal expression through UTV wraps.
- Can-Am
Owned by BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), Can-Am is known for pushing the limits of off-road performance. Their Maverick X3 is a beast in the dunes, often compared to trophy trucks in its suspension travel and acceleration.
Flagship Models:
Maverick (sport)
Defender (utility)
Commander (recreation/utility hybrid)
Strengths:Turbocharged engines
Excellent suspension systems
Leading horsepower in many classes
Premium interiors in top trims
Can-Am riders tend to be performance-focused, and the brand supports a deep aftermarket ecosystem for upgrades and accessories.
- Honda
A household name in reliability, Honda entered the side-by-side market with more of a workhorse attitude — though their newer sport offerings show they’re serious about every segment.
Flagship Models:Pioneer (utility/recreation)
Talon (sport)
Highlights:
Dual-clutch automatic/manual transmissions
Exceptional build quality
Lower maintenance than most competitors
Honda dependability
Honda side-by-sides are ideal for riders who value consistency and utility more than extreme performance, though the Talon series competes well in the sport category.
- Yamaha
Yamaha offers a balanced portfolio that appeals to hunters, trail riders, and weekend warriors alike. Known for innovation and durability, Yamaha was among the first to introduce paddle-shift transmissions in UTVs.
Flagship Models:
Wolverine RMAX (trail/adventure)
Viking (utility)
YXZ1000R (pure sport)
Why Choose Yamaha:
Proven engine tech
Comfortable and quiet cabins
Driver-focused controls
Dependable in harsh conditions
Yamaha’s use of high-performance suspension and advanced drivetrains places them firmly in the premium trail-riding category.
- Kawasaki
Often overlooked, Kawasaki continues to expand its footprint in the UTV space. Their Teryx and Mule lines blend function and simplicity with rugged design.
Flagship Models:
Teryx (sport/recreational)
Mule (utility/farm use)
Notable Features:
Powerful 783cc and 999cc engines
Affordable pricing in base trims
Built to last with steel construction
Great warranty options
Kawasaki’s straightforward approach appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want reliable, no-nonsense machines.
- CFMOTO
A rising challenger in the off-road market, CFMOTO offers high-value side-by-sides at significantly lower prices. With tech and style that rival major brands, they’re gaining fast traction in North America.
Flagship Models:
ZForce (sport)
UForce (utility)
Advantages:
Impressive feature sets at a lower price point
EPS and winches standard in many trims
Rapidly improving quality control
Ideal for first-time buyers
Though not yet at Polaris or Can-Am levels in reputation, CFMOTO’s momentum and value proposition make them worth watching.
Popular Use Cases by Brand Type
| Use Case | Best Brands of Side by Sides |
| Dune Racing | Can-Am, Polaris, Yamaha |
| Trail Riding | Yamaha, Polaris, Honda |
| Farm/Ranch Work | Honda, Kawasaki, Can-Am |
| Family Adventure | Polaris, CFMOTO, Yamaha |
| Budget-Friendly | CFMOTO, Kawasaki |
Customization Trends: Wraps and Mods
With growing interest in vehicle personalization, many riders are turning to custom wraps and performance upgrades. Companies like 10KWraps.com offer full-body vinyl wraps for side-by-sides, letting owners turn their machines into mobile artwork — or just protect them from brush scratches.
From anime-inspired Itasha wraps to camouflage and metallic finishes, wrap trends for UTVs are exploding, especially in youth markets and competitive trail events.
Wraps offer:
Paint protection
Easy color changes
Brand/sponsorship visibility
Affordable design updates
This growing trend makes UTVs as much about expression as performance.
Maintenance and Longevity by Brand
Polaris and Can-Am tend to require more frequent maintenance due to their high-performance engineering, while Honda and Yamaha are better known for reliability and lower maintenance intervals.
| Brand | Maintenance Frequency | Parts Availability | Resale Value |
| Polaris | Moderate–High | Excellent | High |
| Can-Am | High | Excellent | High |
| Honda | Low | Good | Very High |
| Yamaha | Low–Moderate | Good | High |
| Kawasaki | Low | Fair | Moderate |
| CFMOTO | Moderate | Improving | Moderate |
Dealer Support and Community
Access to service, community forums, and parts is a major consideration when choosing among brands of side by sides. Brands like Polaris and Can-Am have huge aftermarket support, while newer brands like CFMOTO are still developing robust networks.
Before choosing a brand, check:
Local dealership availability
Aftermarket parts inventory
Online community size (Facebook groups, Reddit, forums)
Wrapping Up the Ride
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between the top brands of side by sides. Each offers unique benefits depending on how — and where — you ride. If you’re a thrill-seeker chasing performance, Can-Am or Polaris might be your best bet. If you want dependable, low-maintenance workhorses, Honda or Kawasaki may suit your needs better.
No matter which brand you choose, make sure it fits your environment, budget, and long-term goals. And don’t forget — customization with things like vinyl wraps, upgraded tires, winches, and lighting can drastically elevate your ride both in looks and capability.
With an expanding market, incredible technology, and communities of passionate riders around every corner, now is the perfect time to join the world of UTVs.
More Trails to Explore
If you’re serious about standing out, whether for fun or sponsorship, customizing your ride goes beyond just choosing the right model. The aftermarket scene — especially in UTV wraps — is booming. Explore your options, test out some demo rides, and invest in a machine that reflects who you are as a rider.
