By Jon Crowley
We recently purchased a used 2024 Polaris RANGER Kinetic Ultimate to add to our fleet of UTVs. While the RANGER Kinetic wasn’t on our list to purchase, we acquired it for much less than the standard MSRP of over $37K, so we figured that we couldn’t really lose out on it.
Polaris RANGER Kinetic Ultimate Overview
The 2024 Polaris RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate marks a significant advancement in utility side-by-sides, seamlessly integrating electric power with robust performance. Equipped with a 110-horsepower electric motor and delivering 140 lb-ft of torque, it offers immediate throttle response and impressive towing capabilities up to 2,500 pounds . Its 29.8 kWh lithium-ion battery provides an estimated range of up to 80 miles on a full charge, making it well-suited for daily tasks on farms, ranches, or large properties . The XP Kinetic Ultimate also features a 7-inch infotainment display powered by RIDE COMMAND, offering GPS navigation, vehicle diagnostics, and group ride tracking . With its quiet operation and reduced maintenance needs, the RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate stands out as a forward-thinking choice for those seeking a powerful and efficient UTV.
First Ride
I added a whip flag and decided to take it for a ride near Sand Hollow State Park. For this ride, I left our house and drove about 2 miles on pavement until I reached the Sand Mountain OHV area trailhead. From there, I took it off-road to Top-of-the-World, over to the Flag Pole then back through the tunnel and into the State Park before returning home on the pavement. We started the ride at 99% charge and drove a total of 17 miles. The off-road portion of the test was almost completely in sand and the first half was up hill (about 700 feet of elevation gain). I ran in Sport mode which uses more power, but I felt like driving in the sand deserved the extra power.
Drive Modes
The Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic offers three user-selectable drive modes: Eco+, Standard, and Sport, each optimized for different driving conditions and performance needs. Eco+ prioritizes range and quiet operation, Standard is for everyday driving and moderate tasks, and Sport enhances throttle response for more spirited driving and tough jobs.
- Eco+ Mode: This mode optimizes torque and top speed for maximum range and quiet operation, ideal for light-duty tasks in moderate terrain.
- Standard Mode: This mode is designed for everyday driving and moderate-sized jobs, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
- Sport Mode: This mode enhances throttle response and provides more power and more top-speed, making it suitable for spirited driving and the toughest jobs.
If you are looking for maximum range, Sport Mode is certainly not the best choice.
Recharging Batteries
After our 17 mile trip in the sand, we were down to 59% battery capacity. While this seems we used a lot of our capacity, this test was pretty extreme as far as power demands go.
At 59% capacity, it was going to take over 9 hours on a standard 110V outlet to get it back up to 100%. This seems like a long time to me, but I guess that depends on what you are using your RANGER Kinetic. Using a 240V outlet lowered that to under 2 hours which I feel is much more reasonable.
Polaris RANGER Kinetic Ultimate
Conclusion
While the XP Kinetic Ultimate offers some unique advantages, potential buyers should consider:
- Price Point: With an MSRP around $37,499, it’s a premium investment.
- Charging Infrastructure: Access to 240V charging can significantly reduce downtime.
- Using a Kinetic while camping with a generator would be unrealistic due to the long recharge times using a 110V circuit. I don’t think anyone wants to ride for a few hours then have to charge for 10+ hours.
The good news from our test is the Kinetic has ample power to go do anything you want on the trails, or even in the dunes! But in my opinion, the RANGER Kinetic seems to be a best fit for daily tasks on farms, ranches, or large properties. Access to 240V charging outlet makes it even more practical.
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