2017 Textron Stampede vs Arctic Cat HDX 700: By the Numbers

The off-road community was a little shocked when we all learned that Textron purchased Arctic Cat. We all had the same questions floating through our minds – what was going to happen to the Arctic Cat brand and line up? We got most of those questions answered recently and now know that the Arctic Cat UTVs will transition into the Textron Off Road stable with the next model year, but most will stick around. Now that we know the plan, the next questions are, where does the Textron Stampede fit in the lineup, and how does it compare to what Arctic Cat offers now? That’s where we come in. Let’s take a look at the Textron Stampede and the Arctic Cat HDX 700 by the numbers.

When Textron first started working on the Stampede’s development, engineers knew they needed an engine. Rather than going out and sourcing and engine, they went out and bought the entire engine company – Weber. Weber was a highly regarded German engine company and now, as part of Textron, it is doing some pretty cool things. The Stampede is powered by an 80 hp 846cc twin that is everything you’d expect from a German-engineered motor.

Arctic Cat developed the HDX as the Utility side of its Prowler lineup and it fits into this mold nicely. The HDX 700 is powered by Cat’s 695cc H1 single-cylinder motor. It produces around 45 hp and a lot of low-end grunt. These motors have a good reputation. Throttle response is good and the HDX will handle most any job you put it up to.

The Stampede has some seriously tested suspension, with four-wheel fully independent A-arms on the corners. It runs 10.5-inch coil-over shocks out back and 9.5-inch coil overs out front. Having tested the Stampede in Utah and in the mountains of Georgia, the ride is pretty darn good, although when fully loaded, expect there to be some sag.

The HDX runs dual-A-arms all the way around as well. It features 10-inch coil over shocks up front and 10-inch Fox Float coil-over shocks out back that are air adjustable with an included pump. Having tested the HDX across Michigan on the trails and on the farm, the HDX’s suspension works well also. The biggest plus here is that when fully loaded down, you can pump up the rear shocks to maintain the same ride height.

The Stampede has a standard-size cargo bed that dumps. The 600-pound capacity bed is composite in construction and works quite well. The interesting thing about the Stampede’s cargo areas is that cool space behind the cab. Much like most of our trucks, the Textron has an extended cab. This brings in a semi-protected cargo area inside the ROPS for things you don’t want sliding around the cargo bed. There are drop-down access doors on either side and a whole slew of accessories to customize the area for your specific need.

The HDX has a massive cargo bed that holds up to 1,000 lbs. Need it bigger? The sides come off, converting the AC into a flatbed. Need more space? There are two semi-sealed storage compartments just in front of the rear wheels. These compartments have a slider latch and have 18 gallons of storage space, perfect for a tow rope, tie down straps or other tools. Need more still? There’s a 24-gallon storage area under the front hood that has automotive-style hinges.

With the entire Arctic Cat lineup moving to Textron, there’s plenty of room for the Stampede to fit in. It’ll be interesting to see which features from the Cat lineup make their way into the Stampede and vice versa. For now, these are two great machines for you to look at.

Learn more about the Stampede at http://www.textronoffroad.com/side-by-side/gas-utility/stampede/2-passenger, and for more on the Cat, go to https://www.arcticcat.com/dirt/side-by-sides/model/2017-en-hdx-700-xt-eps/#section-specifications. And better yet, go visit your local dealer to see them in person!