A well defended position

Can-Am’s new Defender brings notable upgrades to a tried-and-true platform.

Story Mark Muller  Photo supplied by Can-Am 

Since its introduction in 2015, The Can-Am Defender has earned a place at the forefront of utility side-by-sides in Australia because of its durability, functionality and numerous model variants suited to everything from utilitarian farm work to relatively plush recreational riding. This is against a backdrop of the increasingly stringent safety regulations around quad bikes and ATVs introduced in Australia in late 2020, which led to companies such as Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha ceasing the supply of ATVs into our market altogether. Side-by-sides such as the Defender have filled this gap and are now in widespread use throughout the country’s agricultural sector.

With the release of the latest generation HD11 for the 2026 model year, Can-Am has made significant upgrades to the well-established platform, improving power, refinement and technology, while maintaining the range structure.

The most notable upgrade is the introduction of the HD11 engine, a new 999cc inline three-cylinder Rotax ACE unit producing around 71kW of power and 95Nm of torque, paired with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT). It replaces the HD10 V-twin. The new triple delivers smooth, flexible power with a broad torque band, especially noticeable at low speeds. Engine response has also improved thanks to the new ‘pDrive’ primary clutch and revised CVT system, which reacts more quickly and maintains power more consistently across tricky terrain. Selectable drive modes (Normal, Work, and Sport) let the engine tailor its behaviour to the job, a level of adaptability the previous generation didn’t offer.

Beyond the powertrain, the new Defender features a stronger and more capable platform. You can see that Can-Am continues to actively leverage technology from its off-road racing and recreational buggies into the more agricultural iterations of the side-by-side offering. The suspension and chassis have been redesigned with a wider 165cm stance and larger arched double A-arms, offering better stability and more controlled handling over uneven ground. Ground clearance is now almost 40cm and suspension travel is roughly 30cm at both ends, giving the vehicle more room in rocky washouts or rutted tracks. Steering and suspension joints use double-bonded bushings, reducing noise and extending durability. These changes produce a noticeably quieter, more settled ride. Stopping power has also been upgraded, with larger brake rotors and twin-piston callipers providing a strong, confidence-inspiring feel.

Inside the cab, there has been a big leap in refinement. Noise levels are lower thanks to better engine isolation and improved sealing. The HVAC system in enclosed-cabin models now performs more effectively and the controls have been redesigned for easier use with gloves. Higher-spec versions offer a new 26cm touchscreen that integrates camera views, accessory control and navigation. LED lighting has also been upgraded for clearer visibility in low-light conditions.

The XU HD11 marks the entry point for the new engine, while the XT HD11 adds protective bumpers, LED lighting and improved tyres. Six-seat versions such as the Max XT HD11 offer additional room for crews or larger families. At the top of the range, the Defender X mr HD11 caters to riders tackling heavy mud and rough terrain, with specialist suspension and intake features. The Limited and Max Limited HD11 models represent the premium end of the spectrum, with climate-controlled cabins, infotainment upgrades and comfort-focused refinements that place them well above anything in the previous generation.

Across the range, the new Defender offers longer operating time thanks to a larger 45L fuel tank. Accessories integrate more cleanly into the chassis and electrical system, and the tray and tie-downs have been strengthened for day-to-day practicality.

HD11 prices start at $32,399 for the base Defender XU and stretch to $56,699 for the MAX Lone Star Cab. This makes them broadly comparable in cost to a good used Hilux, so consider the intended use of the vehicle before spending your money. With the Defender you have a pure off-road work machine that is also good for play in places and spaces where other vehicles simply won’t be able to go.