If high-performance off-roading is your hobby, you are probably already well acquainted with the Polaris RZR range. The RZR is among the best-selling side-by-side offerings, covering everything from an entry-level machine to a full factory-backed racer. For the 2027 model year, Polaris is taking things a step further with the arrival of the RZR Pro R Boost, which introduces the model’s first turbocharged powertrain.
The RZR Pro R Boost is intended to establish a new benchmark for SxS performance, arriving as the most powerful model in the entire segment. At the heart of the package is a turbocharged version of the brand’s in-house 2.0-litre ProStar Fury engine, which produces 275 horsepower here. For context, the standard Pro R develops 225 hp from its naturally aspirated four-cylinder, while the Kawasaki Teryx H2’s engine delivers 250 hp. Polaris says the new engine is engineered to maintain peak power all the way up to 10,000 feet of elevation, allowing drivers to take on mountain trails without hesitation. The turbocharger also has the added advantage of making the RZR a bit quieter, which is a welcome change for anyone who has spent a long day riding in one of these.
The Pro R’s CVT gearbox has also been revised to cope with the additional output, and there are extra updates aimed at improving day-to-day usability on the trail. A new clutching system with better airflow should help stop the CVT from suffering unwanted performance losses caused by heat build-up. The engine itself also gets an updated cooling system, along with dedicated coolers for both the turbo and the gearbox.
Polaris has also ensured that the rest of the Pro R’s driveline has been strengthened with components such as larger half shafts to handle the extra torque. Every Pro R Boost will be offered in either Ultimate or Ultra specification. The former comes with a Dynamix suspension setup, while the Ultra models use the race-proven Dynamix DVS system, which introduces the SxS industry’s first active sway bar links. Other highlights include a carbon bonnet, a genuine racing steering wheel, upgraded BFGoodrich 32-inch tyres, and a bespoke colour and graphics order sheet.
Having spent a fair amount of time in different RZR models over the years, horsepower was never especially high on my list of priorities. Even so, I cannot help but think this thing will be a proper hooligan once it hits the trails. Polaris says deliveries will start in November, so hopefully I will not have to wait too long before getting behind the wheel of one.
