Yamaha Updates Viking and Viking VI for 2016

While Yamaha‘s new YXZ1000R Sport UTV was the star of the show this week, Yamaha also quietly unveiled its 2016 Viking and Viking VI Utility UTVs, which each received some updates worth noting.

All Viking and Viking VI models receive a quieter cabin, reinforced chassis, and some added rider conveniences, along with a new Ranch Edition Viking VI.

For 2016, all Yamaha Viking models come standard with a sun top, new automotive-style two-stage door latches, and a parking brake warning buzzer. Noise and vibration reduction features include new rubber damper plates, a more rigid chassis, additional sound dampening materials, and an all-new cylinder head torque rod. The newly reinforced rear steel cargo bed now incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to further reduce sound and vibration.

The new 2016 Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition features Copper Metallic painted bodywork, along with color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, rearview center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, rear bed grab bar, heavy duty front brush guard, and Ranch Edition badging.

2016 Yamaha Viking VI Ranch Edition

“The 2016 Viking and Viking VI Side-by-Sides are already in production and arriving at dealerships nationwide,” says Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group Marketing Manager. “With the added comfort, increased convenience and an all-new Viking VI Ranch Edition, we know the success and enthusiasm towards the Viking and Viking VI will continue to grow in the utility, hunting and farming communities.”

The Viking VI Ranch Edition features color-matched seats.

Color options for the 2016 Viking EPS and Viking VI EPS are Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra camo. Additional options include the all-new Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition (MSRP $15,499) and a Special Edition (SE) Carbon Metallic for both the Viking EPS and Viking VI EPS (MSRP $14,049 and $14,999 respectively), as well as Steel Blue in the Viking EPS.

The Vikings retain Yamaha’s 700cc-class engine, three-way On-Command system with 2WD, 4WD and 4WD differential lock, and Ultramatic transmission with high, low and reverse. Select Viking models are equipped with Yamaha’s Electric Power Steering.

Both the Viking and Viking VI feature 11.8/11.4 inches of ground clearance, full steel-composite smooth skid plate, and four-wheel independent suspension.