Can-Am Tweaks Product Line-Up for 2023

Annually, in late summer or early autumn, the big off-road companies generally lay out their plans for the upcoming model year. This is when we learn about new horsepower numbers, snazzy accessories, and newfound capabilities. For off-road gearheads, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.

2023 Maverick X3 MAX DS Turbo. Photo: Can-Am

Can-Am has unfurled their new gubbins for 2023, starting with a more powerful entry-level Maverick X3. Seen by most as the pointy end of the brand’s spear, this part of the Mav lineup gets a power boost to 135hp (from 120) in the Maverick X3 DS Turbo, helping solidify its position as a solid player in the mid-horsepower segment. Also, can we please take a moment to recognize we’re living in an era where a machine cranking out turbocharged horses well into the triple digits is considered “mid”. Given that Can-Am was the first to break the 200hp barrier, perhaps we shouldn’t be surprised. The crew from Valcourt are making this power largely thanks to an upgraded turbo and bigger injectors.

2023 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS Turbo. Photo: Can-Am

On the work side of things, Defender is now on the receiving end of 30-inch tires as standard spec on some trim levels. Those same rigs also get newly-arched A-arms, making more clearance an appealing prospect in what’s already a stout rig. Not only are tires getting bigger, they are updated in terms of capability for some 2023 Defender models. The X MR will now roll on XPS Swamp Force rubber, while the Defender DPS HD10 and Defender XT HD10 get XPS Trail Kings. At the top of the spec sheet, Limited HD10 and Lone Star HD10 will get XPS Trac Force meats.

2023 Can-Am Outlander XTP 1000R. Photo: Can-Am

2023 Can-Am Outlander MAX XT 850. Photo: Can-Am

Eagle-eyed readers will notice the Outlander models shown above have new headlamps, ones which allegedly cast more light down the trail and certainly look better than the dinner plates on ’22 rigs. Changes to the rest of the lineup are basically limited to new paint and graphics schemes.

If you’re wondering where Can-Am stands on electrification, given the movement by Polaris in that segment, you’ll have to turn your attention to their new efforts in the two-wheeled arena, a part of the market this brand hasn’t played in for decades. That side of the house will launch street and dual-sport EV bikes by 2024. Why should we care? Because the electric powertrains (and R&D) which are going into those rides are almost assuredly making their way to side-by-side products in due course.